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VeroBeach THE FIRST

APRIL 2026

THE ONLY

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Vero Beach teen Shaye Andrews is racking up rodeo ribbons with

HORSE POWER SEPTEMBER

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Exceptional Listings from Dale Sorensen Real Estate

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CONTENTS

Features 92 HORSE POWER Vero Beach teen Shaye Andrews is racking up the rodeo ribbons By Melissa Holsman

100 COFFEE AT ITS PEAK Having scaled the world’s highest mountains and navigated its vast oceans, Sean Wisedale now applies the same passion to roasting the perfect coffee bean By Renáe Tesauro

106 UNTAMED BEAUTY When developers came for our state parks, we pushed back; now it’s time for us to appreciate what we saved By Eric Barton

112 SPIRIT-FREE SIPS

106 12

KELLY ROGERS

As the wellness movement permeates the beverage industry, nonalcoholic cocktails have earned a permanent place at the table By Jules Aron

VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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CONTENTS

Departments 30 OUR 2026 ADVISORY BOARD VERO VIBES

36 WILDE SIDE No man—or any other creature—is an island By Evelyn Wilde Mayerson

46 NEIGHBORS Linda Kloss is devoting her retirement to children’s mental health By Ann Taylor

PER LUNDSTRÖM/IMAGEBANK.SWEDEN.SE

48 INDIAN RIVER INSIGHTS Sailing can teach important life skills By Jeffrey R. Pickering

56 CLASSIC CARS Penn College students restore rare antique autos By Patrick Merrell

62 DESTINATIONS Experience the far north in three Scandinavian spots By Skye Sherman

COASTAL LIFE

68 SPACES With hundreds of shades, white is far from colorless By Valerie Cruice

68 14

70 HOMEGROWN Hone your cold-weather landscaping strategy By Nickie Munroe

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CONTENTS

154

LOCAL FLAVOR

146 THE DISH In his own way, Chef Michael Amaral brings the world to Vero Beach By Chris Fasolino

150 OFF THE VINE

SHE IS ART PHOTOGRAPHY

Let’s enjoy an opportunity to blend oenology with ornithology By Chris Fasolino

74 LIVING WELL

152 MIX IT UP The legend of Islamorada’s rum runner lives on By Jules Aron

154 WEDDINGS Nichol Renee Coss & Griffin Daniel Thompson

There are proactive steps you can take to maintain dignity and respect at the end of your life By Renáe Tesauro

158

In dress shoes, boots, and sneakers, locals are stepping up to support nonprofits

RENEW Nourish skin and hair with invigorating oil formulas By Abigail Duffy

84 TRUE TAILS Is your new puppy’s behavior normal or not? By Amy Robinson

120 NEW & NOTEWORTHY Stay in the loop with businesses & nonprofits

THE SCENE

168 GALLERY GUIDE Spring into some galleries and be showered with art

172 CALENDAR April attractions abound!

179 BUSINESS DIRECTORY Thank you for supporting our local businesses

80 16

ASHLEY MEYER

ON THE COVER:

Shaye Andrews and her horse Ace are denizens of Painted Sky Farms in Vero Beach and a force to be reckoned with on the barrel racing circuit. See the story on page 92. Photograph by Steven Martine

184 BOOKENDS This Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum By Elizabeth Leonard

VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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Architect: Gregory Anderson, PA Photography: Daisy Burns

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EDITOR’S DESK

Barrels of Fun W e’re hoping to put a little spring into your step with our Sports & Leisure

issue while we take a ride to the rodeo, traverse the Atlantic Ocean, climb a mountain or two (more than once), and hike through some of Florida’s

best natural areas. Once the happy exhaustion hits, we’ll make sure everyone stays hydrated. So buckle up and take a spin through our April issue! The first stop in our feature journey is the story behind the lovely, energetic, and

ambitious teen on our cover. Shaye Andrews has been dreaming of barrel racing since she was a youngster, and now, with lots of generational family support, is a rising star in the rodeo world. Come out to the arena with us and spend some time cheering her on! I think it’s safe to say that no other people on these pages have spent more time enjoying the outdoors than Sean Wisedale and his family. Lucky us—after Sean has scaled countless mountains and the family has sailed across the Atlantic, they’ve decided to put their roots down in Vero Beach. Stop in at Tribe Coffee on 12th Street and learn more about how Sean and his wife, Katherine, have created a warm home for their love and knowledge of coffee, cultivated while traveling the world with their two children, Sarah and Robert. If racing horses and consuming mugs of caffeine don’t inspire you to get moving, perhaps the scenery, experiences, and recent history you’ll read about in our state parks feature will. We’ve taken a spin through quite a few notable parks in our area, pointing out the best features and attractions of each, so you can decide which one you’ll visit first, though I’m fairly confident you’ll start with the two right here in Indian River County. Once you’ve finished galloping through the rodeo with Shaye, climbing mountains with Sean, and gallivanting around our varied and expansive state parks, you’ll need some time to kick back and enjoy a cool drink. And when I say cool, I’m not just talking about the temperature. Our “Spirit-Free Sips” feature has recipes for everyone to try out, and they’re awfully easy on the eyes. The message here? Whether it’s hiking, boating, climbing, or rodeoing, let’s get out and have some fun!

Kelly Rogers editor@verobeachmagazine.com

VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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WELCOME

Sunny Days often wonder if the old saying “April showers bring May flowers” is true. Or is it something people enjoy saying to bring a sense of hope and joy in anticipation of sunshine and a vibrant landscape taking shape? This was certainly

true when the proverb originated in bleak England way back when. But with our climate? For one thing, April is our fifth-driest month! And we never have to endure weeks or even months without sunshine, as people in some locations do. Nevertheless, this saying does somehow bring me joy! As I write this note on a cold February day, I can close my eyes and feel the warmth and picture the colorful spring scenery here in Vero Beach. April is also the time that our action-packed season starts to give way to a slower pace and we say goodbye to our snowbird friends, some of whom may be debating becoming full-time residents here in Vero. Maybe you’re one of those people, or maybe you’re retired and missing the level of activity you once had—if so, you may find this month’s Neighbors column inspiring. Starting on page 46, Ann Taylor tells us about Linda Kloss, who discovered Vero Beach by accident, moved here with her husband, and then found a very meaningful way to channel her post-retirement energy. For those of you looking for events that will make good use of your time this month, check out our Calendar, starting on page 172. You can enjoy yourself, be entertained, and maybe get a good workout, all while supporting local nonprofits. Here are a few suggestions: the Vero Beach Film Festival April 9–12; Coastal Connections’ Tipsy Turtle 2-mile fun run April 4 at Jaycee Park; HALO’s Chase Your Tail 5K April 5 in Sebastian; Vero Beach Opera’s Rising Stars vocal competition April 15 and 16, with the finale concert on the 17th; and Gifford Academy for Performing Arts’ Spring Concert April 21. Don’t forget to sign up for our weekly newsletter, Vero Beach Insider, on our website, verobeachmagazine.com, to keep up to date with everything. Happy April, showers or not!

Teri Amey-Arnold, Publisher publisher@verobeachmagazine.com

VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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THE LAUGHING DOG GALLERY | CELEBRATING

VeroBeach THE FIRST

THE ONLY

Magazine ©

SINCE 1997

KELLY ROGERS

Editor in Chief OLGA M. GUSTINE

Creative Director

TERESA LEE RUSHWORTH

Senior Editor MEGAN HYDE ROBERTS

Social Media Editor RENÁE TESAURO

Editor at Large ANN TAYLOR

Senior Writer

JENNY FERNANDEZ-PRIETO

Art Director LEONOR ALVAREZ-MAZA

Digital Imaging Specialist

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jules Aron, Eric Barton, Valerie Cruice, Abigail Duffy, Chris Fasolino, Melissa Holsman, Elizabeth Leonard, Evelyn Wilde Mayerson, Patrick Merrell, Nickie Munroe, Jeffrey R. Pickering, Amy Robinson, Skye Sherman

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kim Bottalico, Jennings Rodeo Photography, Steven Martine, Patrick Merrell, Ashley Meyer, Gyorgy Papp, She Is Art Photography, Sam Wolfe

OWN ART. BE HAPPY.

2910 CARDINAL DRIVE, VERO BEACH 772-234-6711 • THELAUGHINGDOGGALLERY.COM 24

E IN

AMERICA

MAD

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J. M. Stringer

Gallery of Fine Art

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SINCE 1997

TERI AMEY-ARNOLD

Publisher teri@verobeachmagazine.com

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Palm Beach Illustrated • Naples Illustrated • Vero Beach Magazine • Palm Beach Charity Register • Naples Charity Register • Florida Design • Florida Design Naples • Florida Design Miami • Florida Design Sarasota • Florida Design Sourcebook • Palm Beach Relocation Guide • Southwest Florida Relocation Guide • Fifth Avenue South • Naples 100 Art & Culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County • Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation • Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club • Naples on the Gulf: Naples Chamber of Commerce • Jupiter • Stuart • Aventura • Boca Magazine • Delray Magazine • The Boca Chamber Magazine • 1926: The Boca Raton • Community Foundation of Collier County Community Report • Advances: Tampa General Hospital

Published by Palm Beach Media Group North LLC, P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480 561-659-0210 • Fax: 561-659-1736 SUBSCRIPTIONS: One year $28; two years $45; three years $54. Subscribe online at verobeachmagazine.com or call 772-234-8871 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. American Express, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa are accepted. Our subscription information is never shared, rented, or sold.

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Collaboration in action Making Florida proud After a year marked by exceptional teamwork and a commitment to client focus, I am proud to announce that The Shantz Mantione Group has earned one of the industry’s highest distinctions. Forbes has named them one of Florida and Connecticut’s Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams for 2026. The Forbes rating is compiled by SHOOK Research and awarded annually in January, based on information from a 12-month period ending March of the prior year. Eligibility is based on quantitative factors and is not necessarily related to the quality of the investment advice. I am proud of each member for earning this well-deserved recognition. Their pursuit of excellence sets an industry standard and helps turn client dreams into attainable goals. I invite you to have a conversation with The Shantz Mantione Group to see what their level of dedication could mean for you and your family.

Thomas Mantione Managing Director–Wealth Management Private Wealth Advisor The Shantz Mantione Group UBS Financial Services Inc. 601 21st Street, Suite 326 Vero Beach, FL 32960 203-705-4222

advisors.ubs.com/shantzmantione For more information on third-party rating methodologies, please visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that you understand the ways in which we conduct business, that you carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to you about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review the client relationship summary provided at ubs.com/relationshipsummary, or ask your UBS Financial Advisor for a copy. © UBS 2026. All rights reserved. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS Group AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. ED_01162026-25

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ASHLEY MEYER

INSIDE VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

About Us

ero 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 nearly all 50 states. 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 work 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 St., 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.

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OUR 2026 ADVISORY BOARD

LEAD ADVISER SOPHIE BENTHAM-WOOD is a native of London. At Sheffield University, she studied the history of art, design, and film, earning a bachelor’s degree. She then embarked on an illustrious career in marketing and public relations that now spans more than 25 years. She has often been responsible for the implementation of global strategic communications and branding campaigns and has worked with prominent clients in a variety of fields. Sophie moved to the United States in 2008. In 2012, she became the director of marketing and communications at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, establishing the marketing and PR department, playing a major role in reenvisioning and shaping the VBMA’s strategic plan, and implementing a fully integrated marketing campaign for the museum. Today, Sophie serves as executive director of global marketing and sales strategies for Sebastian-based Triton Submarines.

TRUDIE RAINONE has lived in Vero Beach for 25 years and has served the community in leadership roles with a variety of Indian River County nonprofits. Her passion for outreach has her currently serving on the executive boards of Senior Resource Association, ORCA, and Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy. She is also a health care partner volunteer with Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and vice chair of Quail Valley Charities, which funds 43 local children’s organizations. A native of New York City, Trudie reared her children with her husband of 50 years, Donald, in New York and New Jersey. She is the proud grandmother of two boys, Chase and Drew. Trudie has a merchandising background in the fashion industry and was a business owner specializing in fine antiques.

JON R. MOSES is the executive producer and CEO of Riverside Theatre, where he has worked for 27 seasons. A Treasure Coast native, he studied theater design technology at Florida State University’s School of Theatre, followed by graduate studies at Florida Atlantic University. He has been involved in every aspect of theater for over 34 years. He has even served as an adjunct faculty member at Indian River State College, where he taught and coordinated an associate of science technical theater program. Jon’s involvement in the community includes serving as treasurer on the board of the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the Exchange Club of Indian River. He was also a board member of the Oceanside Business Association and president of the Florida Professional Theatre Association.

JESSICA LINUS WATFORD moved to Vero Beach as a 10th grader and attended Saint Edward’s School. A graduate of Auburn University (War Eagle!), she lived in Atlanta and Raleigh before returning to Vero Beach in 2015 and joining her father and grandfather in the family business, Linus Cadillac Buick GMC. In 2019, she graduated from the National Automobile Dealers Association Academy and is now a proud third-generation dealer-operator at Linus. Jessica resides in Okeechobee with her husband and two young daughters. She enjoys the best of both worlds, between boating days on the water and country life, rodeos, and ranching.

VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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WILDE SIDE | NEIGHBORS | INDIAN RIVER INSIGHTS | CLASSIC CARS | DESTINATIONS

46 NEIGHBORS

SAM WOLFE

Linda Kloss is devoting her retirement to children’s mental health.

APRIL 2026

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WILDE SIDE

COMMUNITY

Intertwined NO MAN—OR ANY OTHER CREATURE—IS AN ISLAND

BY EVELYN WILDE MAYERSON

like to walk the edges of the golf course in the evenings just before dusk, more wary lately since a couple of residents reported seeing what they thought was a panther. It was more likely a bobcat, given the scarcity of Florida panthers and the absence of any confirmed sightings in our area. Nevertheless, I was

comforted to know that, even if there were a panther, it would be protected due to its critically endangered status, and our community would make no attempt to remove it. Silhouettes of scattered live oaks with gnarled, bare, outstretched branches line the fairway. The rounded plain reminds me of Africa’s Seren-

geti. On a recent walk, there were no clambering cats, only air plants perched capriciously on each tree’s upper branches, taking their nourishment from rainwater, air, and sunlight. The trees seemed motionless, although I have learned that most of their activity happens out of sight beneath the ground.

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WILDE SIDE Left: Root-like fungal branches help trees communicate. Far left: The acacia tree is capable of warning others of invading insects.

While the oaks are isolated, each standing alone on the eighth and ninth holes, they are not disconnected loners. Instead, they communicate with one another and with

other trees through underground networks formed by fungal threads that link their roots. This networking allows them to provide mutual support by sharing nutrients,

water, and chemical signals, even at a distance. While communication among trees was long suspected by foresters and loggers like those in the film Train Dreams, only in the last 25 years have ecologists succeeded in tracing the fungal networks that lace woodlands and join individual trees into connected forests, serving one another through “deep time,” a

chronology of the underground measured in eons and epochs. It is becoming clear that all living beings communicate. Plants share information about threats and resources through electrical impulses, subtle sounds, and chemical signals. The acacia, so familiar in Florida, is an example. When insects munch on an acacia’s leaves, the plant releases ethylene gas, an invisible warning to other acacias to start producing the plant’s deterrent of bitter tannin. Size makes no difference. Microbes live together in information-sharing communities.

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W E S T PA L M NAPLES PA L M B E AC H FORT MYERS JUPITER WELLINGTON P R O V I D E N TJ E W E L R Y. C O M

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WILDE SIDE

Above: John Donne (shown as painted by Isaac Oliver) said, “No man is an island.” Left: Two ants communicate.

A single ant scurrying about seems willy-nilly, but four ants clustered around a dead moth look like an idea. Even rocks communicate, although more a one-way street, something like the astral signals that planetologists send into space asking if anybody is out there. Every rock on Earth has a clock and a thermometer telling us when and where it was formed and how it has been eroded. We have the same circuitry as most other creatures that dialogue, although it is not always on—perhaps because our increasingly sophisticated and technological world allows us to live a life with no direct contact other than a pizza delivery. Yet we were programmed differently, evolved to a place where sociability is embedded in our DNA. Even if we tell ourselves we don’t care what others think, we are designed to seek the approval of others. Being part of a tribe is essential 40

to survival. Acceptance means the ability to coordinate our actions with others in activities that require two pairs of hands. Survival of the fittest, then, has become survival of the most reliable, trusted individuals, able to benefit the community with their skills, able to combine those skills with those of others. Seventeenth-century British poet John Donne’s famous quote “No man is an island” was not a line from one of his poems but a part of a sermon he delivered as dean of St. Paul’s. We’re programmed to

interact with another person, whether by a pat on the back, a shared joke, a piece of gossip, or a fist bump—all enjoyable because the mechanisms that guide our desire for interaction are embedded in the part of our brains responsible for pleasure. So much that makes us content is dependent on other people who share our homes, our jobs, our dog parks, even our disasters. For example, the tornado spawned by 2024’s Hurricane Milton that cut a swath through Central Beach, tearing off roofs, uprooting The remote Svalbard Global Seed Vault preserves the world’s seed varieties.

trees, downing wires, and tossing cars, brought a wide variety of first responders, including the National Guard, Fish and Wildlife officers, the Florida Forest Service, and neighbors bearing casseroles, coffee, and offers of a place to stay. Apart from the information we get from social media, like the roots of trees, we are part of a grid. Somehow our brains, hidden away behind several pounds of bone, may allow us even to pass thoughts around from mind to mind, a phenomenon seen in jokes that pop up simultaneously at gatherings in Poughkeepsie and Bangladesh; in sudden changes in the way we wear our hair; in inventions developed by different people at the same time—the incandescent light bulb by Thomas Edison and Joseph Swan, the telegraph by Samuel Morse and William Fothergill Cooke, and the theory of evolution by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace. A recent result of global thinking and interdependence is the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a Noah’s Ark of food housing 1.3 million seed samples secured beneath the

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WILDE SIDE There’s no way around it: humans need one another.

permafrost of a remote Norwegian archipelago. While it is comforting to know that every grain on earth is preserved at the North Pole, we live a day-to-day existence with more immediate concerns, like getting to the bus stop on time to pick up the kids, remembering to buy dog food, deciding whether it’s worth the risk of standing on a ladder to change a light bulb, and hoping that five days of rain won’t flood the driveway. In November, a BOLO text message popped up on my phone from the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office. The message said to be on the lookout for an 86-year-old man from Sebastian, last seen wearing layered clothing and a black baseball cap, who had gone missing. Eighty hours later, Donald Keaton, who suffers from dementia, was found 42

in a heavily wooded area near 1-95 and the County Road 512 exit, less than a mile from the RV park at which he had been staying with his wife, Joyce. IRCSO public information officer Captain Joe Abollo was readily available to discuss and confirm the details of the rescue. What occurred was an amazing community effort of hundreds of volunteers and first responders combing the area, including members of the IRCSO, Sebastian and Fellsmere police departments, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, and Indian River County Fire Rescue. The search employed helicopters, planes, heat-seeking drones, K9 units, boats, and dive teams. Keaton was found when a heat-seeking drone detected a

heat signature beneath heavy tree cover. Watch commander Lieutenant Kevin Jaworski of the IRCSO reached him first. “I got him. I got him right here,” relayed Jaworski. “Donald,” he said to the fallen man, “we got you, buddy.” Then to dispatchers, “He’s alive! He’s alive!” He was conscious but unable to move when rescue crews reached him, and deputies had to cut a path through the dense undergrowth to carry him out to the waiting ambulance that took him to Orlando Health Sebastian River Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition, kept for observation, then released. Sheriff Eric Flowers commented on the coordination and recovery: “The entire community came together. We never stopped looking, and that persistence paid off.” The rescue of Donald Keaton

was an amazing instance of a community joining forces. It didn’t matter what beliefs anyone had, what was going on in the world, or that the missing person might have been only a visitor and probably didn’t know what time it was. In a show of concern and solidarity, the community pooled its resources. Its respect for life turned up in the first words Jaworski said when he encountered Keaton tangled in the brush. “Donald, we got you, buddy.” Jaworski revealed the attitude of a community that pulled out all the stops in an effort to find an 86-year-old man wearing a black baseball cap and suffering from dementia, a community that also considers the panther’s right to claim a territory, even if the territory is a gated village with a golf course.

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NEIGHBORS

VOLUNTEERING

Unfinished Business LINDA KLOSS IS DEVOTING HER RETIREMENT TO CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH

f it hadn’t been for a Christmas card from friends in Massachusetts who wrote that they were moving to Vero Beach, Linda Kloss might never have known about the seaside gem we call home. Curious, she clicked on the city website and liked what she saw. Kloss and her husband had been looking to make a move, and Vero appeared to fit the bill. They packed up, headed south, bought a house, and settled in. Prior to retiring, Kloss was CEO of the American Health Information Management Association, headquartered in Chicago. She had also served in thought leadership roles, providing consulting to health care nonprofits and technology and service organizations. In addition, the secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services appointed her to serve on the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics, where she chaired the Privacy, Confidentiality, and Security Subcommittee. Accustomed to being over-the-top busy, Kloss was having trouble dealing with the adjustment to a much slower-paced lifestyle. “I was doing some consulting work but I needed more,” she admits. “Then I met a retired clinical psychologist and mentioned I was looking to volunteer for something in social services, something that had meaning. She told me about Tykes and Teens, a leading provider of evidence-based behavioral health services for infants on up to age 18 and their families on the Treasure Coast. I immediately embraced the mission and jumped right in.” It’s easy to see why; Kloss has a heart for helping others, especially the youngest among us. 46

“We work with children who are experiencing anxiety, depression, impulse control issues, autism, eating disorders, and a range of other behaviors due to causes like homelessness and abuse. Also, after COVID, therapists reported that kids weren’t as prepared to deal with life’s challenges. Not only do more tykes, teens, and young adults need help, their issues are more complex, requiring a greater level of service. We help them draw on their resilience skills.” Kloss is quick to point out that the first few years of a child’s life are a blueprint for his or her future. “When very young children are exposed to traumatic events, their risk of experiencing long-term mental and physical health problems increases. Addressing issues early means healthier children can reach their full potential. That’s the bottom line.” Initially, Kloss joined the nonprofit’s public relations and development committees before becoming president of the board for two years. Then came the search for a new CEO. “Because of my background, I served as interim CEO until we hired Anne [Posey],” says Kloss, who continues to serve on the board, chairing the governance committee. “The amount of demand for our services continues to increase. Many of our referrals come from the Department of Children and Families and school counselors. People are always shocked when they hear about 4-year-olds whose behavior causes them to be kicked out of preschool,” says Kloss. “I don’t know if I’ll ever really retire. I was prepared to, and then Tykes and Teens came along. I don’t have children. I’ve been in an adult world all my life, so my exposure to children and knowing I’m able to help them is very gratifying.”

SAM WOLFE

BY ANN TAYLOR

Linda Kloss finds happiness spending time helping children who have had a more challenging start in life.

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APRIL 2026

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INDIAN RIVER INSIGHTS

PHILANTHROPY

A Master Class

Teaching a child to sail can instill confidence that will transfer to other areas of life.

SAILING CAN TEACH IMPORTANT LIFE SKILLS

BY JEFFREY R. PICKERING

ails Meeting. Friday, January 23, 2026, 2:30 p.m. No, that is not a misspelling. It is the entry I made on my office calendar after reluctantly accepting an invitation to go sailing on the Indian River Lagoon. It was the end of a full week, after an already busy start to the new year, and I was looking forward to a rare

Friday during “season” with no evening events scheduled. Maybe I could cancel. “Dad, you have to go,” demanded my daughter, Olivia, who was still home from college preparing for her spring semester abroad. “Yeah, Dad, you made us all do it,” added my 12-year-old son, Grant. “Now it’s your turn.” Yes, each of our children

had been enrolled at one time or another in Youth Sailing Foundation’s classes or camps. I thought they would have fun. Looking back at the other recreational activities each one pursued, now I was not so sure. I sent a cross-country, factchecking text to my son Colin, who had already started his final semester of college on the West Coast. “Olivia and

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INDIAN RIVER INSIGHTS

Grant, Olivia, and Colin Pickering were all taught sailing at YSF over the years.

Grant are saying I made you all learn to sail. Made you?” He replied with a “thumbs up” emoji followed by a meme clip of Jack Nicholson’s character from the film A Few Good Men mouthing the words “We follow orders.” Message received. Like it or not, I was going sailing. My host for this outing was Jamie Bell, president of Complete Trust Insurance and current chairman of the United Way of Indian County’s board of directors. We had run into each other the week before at a groundbreaking ceremony for YSF Community Sailing’s new Pat Harris Community

LICENSE:

Sailing Center. It is being named with a $1 million gift in memory of the organization’s longtime chairman. I assumed Jamie was in attendance as one of the many donors who, like Indian River Community Foundation, helped YSF raise the $5 million needed to build the 10,000-squarefoot facility. I learned, however, that Jamie also serves on YSF’s board of directors and, as an active member of the adult sailing program, regularly races Laser sailboats. “You should come sailing with me sometime,” Jamie suggested enthusiastically. He knew I was an avid

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surfer, so I imagine his invitation was being made waterman to waterman. Or it might have been one of those comments that some people make in passing while trying to be friendly. Golf, pickleball, and tennis usually make that list. Since I became legally blind in November 2022, Jamie’s invitation was one of those offers that I secretly hoped he would forget about making. My blindness comes from an inherited eye disorder called retinitis pigmentosa (RP) that causes progressive degeneration of the retina and a loss of peripheral vision. Imagine holding up two paper

in the rather forgiving liquid form of water. I wasn’t so sure that sailing, with all its gear and moving parts, would be as forgiving. After almost a week had passed since I’d talked with Jamie, I thought I was in the clear—until his email arrived. The following day’s forecast looked great for sailing. We planned to meet at 2:30 p.m. at YSF’s launch site on the southwest side of the Alma Lee Loy Bridge. I imagine sailing, like surfing, has its own pre-session rituals that consist of checking the weather, the waves, and gear. The night before,

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towel rolls to your eyes and you will get a good idea of what it is like. Now dim the lights. That’s RP. Fortunately, I still have my central vision, which has allowed me to continue surfing, albeit with some adjustments. I ride a standup paddleboard. I try to avoid crowds. While hazards remain, wipeouts still end up

nervous energy makes it hard to sleep. I felt a bit of the same before going sailing. When I arrived the next afternoon, Jamie had almost finished rigging the sailboat, a Hobie Getaway. The 17-foot catamaran had two sails and a trampoline stretched between two hulls. This particular boat was outfitted with a wing set on each hull that served as a

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backrest on lazy days or as an extended platform for sailors to “hike out” on windy days. Several lines rested on the tramp, a mainsheet for the mainsail, a jib sheet for the smaller sail closer to the bow, and a halyard to raise the mainsail. To my surprise, the Hobie Getaway was missing a downhaul, the line used to lower the boom. The boom is a horizontal bar that runs along the bottom of the mainsail to keep its shape. Jamie joked that it is named for the sound it makes when a sailor forgets to lower his or her head when the sail comes about from one side to the other. The Hobie Getaway’s sail is made to work without a boom, however, making the experience a bit more forgiving for an unsuspecting (or in my case, blind) sailor.

As we prepared to launch, I reminded Jamie that I was visually impaired but still capable of helping. I’m not used to taking orders but found it strangely comforting when Jamie directed me to help pull the boat into the water, to climb aboard, to work the jib sheet, and to adjust the dolly and haul the boat out of the water when we finished. As we set sail, Jamie told me to look back at the shore. With a northeast wind blowing at just 10 to 12 knots, I was shocked at how much distance we traveled in the first 30 seconds of being underway. For the next 90 minutes or so, we sailed back and forth across the lagoon, with Jamie explaining maneuvers like jibing (when the boat’s stern

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A recent groundbreaking was held for the Pat Harris Community Sailing Center, shown here in an artist’s rendering.

crosses through the wind) and tacking (when the boat’s bow crosses through the wind.) The sun shone, and first a dolphin and then a manatee played in our wake. Pelicans dive-bombed to catch their evening meal. It felt like I was stealing an experience that many people fly across the country to take part in. Over the years, there have been times when I have been asked about or even criticized for financial contributions that the Community Foundation has made to YSF. Sometimes these questions or criticisms come with observations such as, “There are too many nonprofits” or “Sailing is a sport for rich kids.” I

asked Jamie what he thought about that. “You’d know more than I would about the number of charities in our community and whether or not they are duplicating services,” he replied. (The data the Community Foundation collects on Indian River County nonprofits does not support this point of view.) “As far as sailing being a sport for rich kids,” he continued, “that is not our experience. Of the 300 or more children YSF introduces to sailing each year, half come

from underserved households that include children sponsored by the Homeless Children’s Foundation. Sailing keeps many motivated to do well in school. For others it keeps them out of trouble. For all of them, sailing helps to

build confidence.” Sailing teaches us that while the direction of the wind is beyond our control, we can adjust our sails to reach our destination. A lesson, thanks to YSF Community Sailing, that is free for everyone.

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CLASSIC CARS

This innovative and stylish Tucker 48, one of only 51 built, appeared in the 1988 movie Tucker: The Man and His Dream and in the 2025 Moda Miami concours.

RESTORING THE PAST

Studying the Classics THE AUTOMOTIVE RESTORATION PROGRAM AT PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

L WRITTEN BY PATRICK MERRELL

ast year, at the Moda Miami luxury car event, the best in class award for “The American Dream Collection” went to a 1948 Tucker 48. What’s most surprising about the win was the team behind it: a dozen students enrolled in the automotive restoration program at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Fittingly, the car was driven onto the award stage by Ty Tucker, one of the students and the great-great-grandson of the car’s creator, Preston Tucker. The metallic blue Tucker, one of two the school has worked on, is part of the collection at the William E. Swigart, Jr. Automobile Museum in nearby Huntingdon. The second one, also from the museum, was the 1947 hand-built prototype

known as the “Tin Goose.” It was invited to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 2018, joining 11 other Tuckers. “We’re fortunate enough that we’re able to work on some iconic cars of history,” says Roy Klinger, the school’s restoration instructor. Past projects have included an electric 1908 Studebaker, a 1916 Scripps-Booth Model D, a 1926 Ford Model T, a 1929 Duesenberg, a 1935 Rolls-Royce, a one-of-a-kind 1953 Verrill Wolf Wagon, a 1966 Thunderbird, and a 1970 Chevelle SS 454. There are only a few colleges in the country that offer a program in automotive restoration, notably the four-year program at McPherson College in Kansas, but none has as long a history in automotive repair as Penn College. The

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The restoration lab is housed in what used to be an office-furniture factory. A cargo elevator in the back of the building is used to get vehicles to the work floor.

This majestic 1929 Duesenberg Model J convertible sedan gets a final polishing in the lab. Coincidentally, its Lycoming engine was made just a mile from the school. APRIL 2026

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CLASSIC CARS

Roy Klinger and two restoration students inspect a 1926 Model T that was donated to the school in 2018.

school traces its roots back to 1914, when Williamsport High School began offering industrial arts courses in the evening for adults. In 1920, an automotive repair class was added, which was held outside under a set of football bleachers. The program continued to grow, morphing into the Williamsport Technical Institute in 1941, a community college in 1965, and then Penn College in 1989. The school currently offers a two-year associate degree in either automotive technology or collision repair, as well as a bachelor’s degree in automotive management. In 2012, the college added the auto restoration program, which focuses on pre-1972 cars. That coursework lasts a year, resulting in a certificate. It can be combined with other majors or taken as a stand-alone course of study. Students in the restoration program spend 70 percent of their time working hands-on in a 49,000-square-foot lab. The work area is spacious, clean, and equipped with everything from vehicle lifts (46 of them) to 3-D printers

This 1947 Tucker “Tin Goose” prototype, property of the William E. Swigart, Jr. Automobile Museum, was shown at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. 58

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Students examine a 1966 Ford Thunderbird engine.

for making small parts, such as knobs. The curriculum emphasizes structural, mechanical, electrical, refinishing, and research skills. The vintage cars come from a variety of sources. There’s the Swigart museum, already mentioned, but the Hershey Antique Auto Museum and several other foundations have also lent vehicles. It’s a loan, not a donation, so the cars are returned when the restoration work is finished. That arrangement is a win for both sides: the students gain invaluable experience working on historic cars, while the lending institutions get upgrades to their collections for the cost of parts. One of the advantages of Penn College’s location is being situated just a mile away from Lycoming Engines. “Our aviation program is involved significantly with Lycoming,” Klinger says, but the auto restoration program also benefits. “We usually do a tour. We get to see the library, some of the archives of their Lycoming engines that were utilized in cars and trucks.” Duesenberg, Cord, and International Harvester are among the vehicles that used Lycoming engines. “I also teach a study-abroad course in Italy,” Klinger says. “We study the impact of the automobile over the past 100 years on European culture.” Students complete an online course throughout the semester, then travel to Italy for 10 days. “This year we fly into Milan,” Klinger says. “We’ll be touring the Lamborghini factory and museum, then visiting a company that does all their repair work. We’ll tour a Ferrari factory, a Maserati repair facility, and Pagani, the Formula One builder. It’s a very full 10 days.” One unusual preparation for the trip is a meal at the school’s fine-dining restaurant, Le Jeune Chef (The Young Chef ), an

Penn College got this 1908 Studebaker electric car, with its gorgeous cherrywood coachwork, running for the Swigart museum. It went on to win a class award at The Amelia concours in 2018.

on-campus facility where culinary and hospitality students get real-world experience. “The class goes to Le Jeune Chef,” Klinger says, “and we learn the proper etiquette for eating an Italian meal.” In general, the automobile programs at Penn College are thriving, with wait lists for both the automotive technology and collision repair programs. The restoration

program, however, has room for more students. “It’s a little smaller than I would like it to be,” Ali Lorson, the assistant dean of transportation technology, admits. The problem is simple: not many people know about it. To that, she says, “We are looking for students who have a genuine passion for vintage and classic cars and who want to turn that passion into a career.”

Work on this 1935 RollsRoyce 20/25 saloon included hand-fabricating a new roof panel. The car is part of the collection of the Rolls-Royce Foundation/Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club.

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DESTINATIONS

ESCAPE

True North

EXPLORE THREE SCANDINAVIAN DESTINATIONS SHAPED BY LIGHT, LANDSCAPE, LONG-STANDING TRADITIONS, AND MODERN SURPRISES

Characterized by jagged peaks and turquoise waters, Norway’s Lofoten Islands are nestled north of the Arctic Circle.

rom design-forward Nordic capitals to the edge of the Arctic world, Scandinavia rewards travelers who brave the journey north. Here, the good life is rooted in nature, art, architecture, and togetherness, shaped by long winters that have taught inhabitants how to har-

ness light and warmth in ways that radiate, no matter the season. Read on as we spotlight three destinations to include on your next Scandinavian itinerary. STOCKHOLM AND SURROUNDS Begin your journey in Sweden’s refined capital. In fact,

go straight from the plane to anywhere with a cappuccino and kanelbullar, a traditional Swedish cinnamon bun. Aptly nicknamed “the Venice of the North,” Stockholm is built across 14 islands connected by bridges, where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Between the striking architecture and

VIDAR MOLØKKEN/VISIT NORWAY

BY SKYE SHERMAN

famously fashionable locals, it’s a city to be strolled on foot, ideally along the abundant waterfront. The best place to start is Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town. The city’s original settlement harks back to the 13th century, with cobblestone streets that wind through

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ANNA HÅLLAMS

PER LUNDSTRÖM/IMAGEBANK.SWEDEN.SE

(vasamuseet.se), which houses the only (almost) fully intact 17th-century ship that has ever been salvaged, a 64-gun warship that sank on her maiden voyage in 1628. As much as Stockholm proper has to offer, there’s a gem on the outskirts that is worth the train and taxi. The original yoga influencer, Rachel Brathen—better known as Yoga Girl to her 2 million Instagram followers— opened Ala Gård (instagram.com/ ala_ farms) last summer, a sweet spot for fika, the popular Swedish version of a coffee or tea break with something sweet. Go to dine, shop, greet the cows and sheep (and maybe even Brathen and her family), or just read a book on

a blanket in the grass, assuming you’re visiting around Sweden’s midsummer. If, like a savvy Euro traveler, you plan to take the über-clean, überconvenient SJ train (sj.se) to your next stop in Oslo, then the Nordic Light Hotel (nordic lighthotel.com) is an excellent home base. It is nestled around the corner from the train platforms, making arriving, departing, and exploring the city easy. The hotel sports contemporary Nordic sensibilities like minimalist rooms and suites, and is home to the lively Lykke lobby restaurant, envisioned by designer John Tong, architect Todd Saunders, and a team of Nordic designers. ANDERS TEDEHOLM

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ocher buildings dating to the Middle Ages. It’s easy to while away hours here, ducking into small boutiques, rambling the squares, or stumbling upon pocket restaurants like Augustas Folksalong (instagram. com/augustas.folksalong), which serves authentic Swedish moose meatballs so good, you may just return twice. Convince your dining companion to order the öländska kroppkakor—a beloved potato dumpling dish with mushrooms, browned butter, and lingonberry—and share. When playtime calls, hit Stockholm highlights such as the world’s oldest open-air museum, Skansen (skansen. se), or the Vasa Museum

The islet of Riddarholmen in central Stockholm forms part of the city’s Old Town, or Gamla Stan (le ). Visit sites such as the Vasa Museum (below center), partake in Swedish fika (bo om le ), and commune with nature (bo om right) before exploring the countryside by train (below right).

OSLO Another hotel conveniently situated next to the central train station, Thon Hotel Opera (thonhotels.com) is perfect for a short stay in Norway’s cool capital, especially if your main goals are to dine on fresh Norwegian salmon (a must) and visit the iconic Oslo Opera APRIL

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COURTESY OF LYNGVÆR LODGES

DESTINATIONS

House (operaen.no) and the Deichman Bjørvika library (deichman.no/bibliotekene), both of which are just across the street. While the oldest and largest public library in Norway features architecture by Lundhagem Arkitekter in collaboration with Atelier Oslo, the real draw is inside—and that includes the fascinating Future Library (future library.no), which is equal parts public art, silent contemplative room, and literary time 64

LOFOTEN ISLANDS There’s a reason the Lofoten Islands, a remote archipelago above the Arctic Circle in farnorthern Norway, top many a travel vision board; the area offers lots to do in a stunning setting complete with fishing villages, dramatic mountains, and waters ranging from deep navy to blues so clear they appear Caribbean in parts.

While wintertime sees the area blanketed in snow, during the summer and early fall, visitors can hike, kayak, and even surf in relatively mild temperatures. Cod fishing is another distinctive Lofoten activity, as is witnessing the famous midnight sun phenomenon from late May to mid-July. You can even golf during this unique time at Lofoten Links (lofotenlinks.no). Easily one of the most mind-blowingly beautiful places to putt, Lofoten Links is ranked No. 66 on Golf Magazine’s list of the top 100 courses in the world. It is open for middle-of-the-night rounds while the sun keeps the course illuminated.

BROADSTONE/RENÉ BJERREGAARD/VISIT NORWAY

capsule. It contains manuscripts by authors such as Margaret Atwood set to remain unpublished for 100 years, not to be read until 2114. Museums, fortresses, and parks also abound in Oslo, but the best adventures await on the other side of a series of short flights by tiny Widerøe airline (wideroe.no).

JACOB SJÖMAN

ERIK THALLAUG/VISIT OSLO

Clockwise from above: the Oslo Opera House; the northern lights at Lyngvær Lodges; Lofoten Links; one of Lofoten’s picturesque fishing villages; smoked Norwegian salmon with herbs and a creamy sauce; main branch of the Deichman Bjørvika library

You do, of course, have to sleep at some point. When in Lofoten, there’s no better place to rest your head—and spend your days cozying up with a stunning view, very hygge—than Lyngvær Lodges (lyngvarlodges.com). These privately owned and profession-

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ally managed luxury lodges feature calm, understated interiors with massive windows that let the impressive outdoors do the talking. Fully equipped kitchens, heated floors, and an indoor sauna will tempt you to remain inside all day, but do step out to sink into the Jacuzzi at least. If you’re lucky, you can soak as the mesmerizing northern lights glow and dance above you.

If cold plunges are more your speed, at Lyst Lofoten Sauna (lystlofoten.no) in Svolvær you can rotate between swimming in the icy Vestfjord and roasting in the multilevel floating sauna for as many rounds as it takes to feel like a real Norwegian. After working up an appetite, refuel with a reindeer steak and small plates at Låven (hovgard.no/en/laven-restau rant). At this barn restaurant,

COURTESY OF LYNGVÆR LODGES

COURTESY OF LYN GVÆR LODG ES

Lyngvær Lodges are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows and private Jacuzzis, from which you can savor all the natural splendor Norway has to offer.

unassuming farm-chic interiors and a roaring fireplace present a cinematic backdrop for the menu of finely handled local ingredients that changes with the seasons—and the chefs’ whims. Another Lofoten must is the Brim Explorer Trollfjord cruise (brimexplorer.com), where sighting white-tailed sea eagles

is somehow topped by the main event: the fjord itself. The fourhour cruise brings passengers all the way into the narrow, steep natural wonder on a hybrid-electric boat built just for sightseeing. The magnificent views cement once and for all what you already suspected: visiting Lofoten is well worth the lengthy trip north.

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68 SPACES

With hundreds of shades, white is far from an absence of color.

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SPACES DESIGN

White Done Right WITH HUNDREDS OF SHADES, WHITE IS FAR FROM AN ABSENCE OF COLOR BY VALERIE CRUICE

Darlene Bell likes to include white on walls and in furniture choices before layering in more color.

White represents a blank canvas.

read. Snow. Printer paper. Sheets. Milk. Clouds. Ah yes, clouds—pretty, puffy, fairweather clouds, tinged with golden sunshine. Those cottony cumuli that impart feelings of optimism, well-being, and calm. Why, they almost make you feel like dancing. And that’s exactly the sentiment the Pantone Color Institute, headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, tapped into in naming its 2026 Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer. White? Cloud Dancer, Pantone 11-4201, marks the first time white has been selected since the inception of the Color of the Year program in 1999. It was chosen as a foil for overstimulation, a noisy world, and chaos. It represents a fresh start, a blank canvas, and the “value of quiet reflection.” Darlene Bell, of Darlene Bell Interior Design in Vero Beach, wasn’t surprised by the choice. “Cloud Dancer has a hint of gold, so it’s a warm white. It presents itself as a soft luxury,” she says. Bell, whose own home is “white-on-white,” uses white as a color drench on the walls, layering in other colors and textures. For furniture, Bell says, “I still like white on sofas.” Given the efficacy of high-performance fabrics, white is a viable design choice. Bunny Williams, the eponymous designer, is a big fan of white painted furniture, particularly the white finishes found on Swedish antiques. “What I love is a whitewashed finish that has some transparency and allows the beauty of the wood to show. It gives the eye a place to rest, but

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Designers suggest staying consistent in the warmth and coolness of white choices.

Sandra Morgan’s white floors, walls, and furniture make other objects stand out.

it’s not boring,” says the New York–based designer. What is white, exactly? Ironically, it is the result of reflecting all the visible colors of the spectrum. White paint was originally made from lead oxide and chalk but was eventually replaced with titanium oxide. The word “white” derives from the Old English “hwit,” meaning bright, radiant, clear, fair. Its symbolism has been largely positive: peace, purity, simplicity, innocence, new beginnings, cleanliness. Elsie de Wolfe, the groundbreaking interior designer of the early 20th century, famously said, “I believe in optimism and plenty of white paint.” De Wolfe died in 1950; she would be astonished today by

how many white paints she could choose from. Sherwin Williams offers nearly 200, its Pure White and Alabaster being favorites. Benjamin Moore produces 150 different whites, with White Dove being its most popular, along with Simply White. Its purest whites, Chantilly Lace and Super White, have high light reflective values (LRV)—great for trim and ceilings. Says Bunny Williams, “There are more shades of white than you could imagine, so to get harmony with white is challenging. You have to be consistent in using all warm whites or gray whites or creamy whites.” Just as Cloud Dancer is tinged with gold, whites are hued. They are warm or cool. The space where white is going has to be

considered for its orientation, where it is in the world, and what else is happening in the room. Context is king. And even if you use Cloud Dancer or any white on every surface in a room, it will take on different qualities depending on the finish. Whether flat, semigloss, eggshell, or high gloss, the reflective qualities will distinguish each one, adding subtle contrast. Sandra Morgan, of Sandra Morgan Interiors, loves color but says, “My heart belongs to white.” Morgan’s white house in Connecticut has whitewashed floors, Gustavian furniture, and white walls. “White gives clarity to other objects in the room. It’s a wonderful background for antiques, great artwork, and rugs,” she says. Her favorites are Benjamin Moore’s Decorator’s White, White Dove, and Cotton Balls. She loves Farrow & Ball’s Pointing in high gloss because it looks as if it’s still wet. For Morgan, “White is the color of every year!” APRIL 2026

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HOMEGROWN

Banana trees (seedlings seen here) can be helpful in sheltering other plants when strategically placed near more cold-sensitive growth.

HORTICULTURE

Antifreeze in April? WINTER 2026 WAS A GOOD REMINDER TO STAY ON TOP OF YOUR LANDSCAPE’S COLD-WEATHER STRATEGY BY NICKIE MUNROE

ear April, Consistently warm temperatures are all I ask of you. Please don’t disappoint me; I have a lot of plants waiting patiently to be installed over the next few weeks. This past winter’s freeze did a number on my foodscape, and while I had planned to reorganize it next year, nature had other ideas. The damage, particularly to my banana and papaya plants, moved that timeline up. That’s okay. Gardening, especially in sub-

tropical Florida, is always an exercise in observation, adjustment, and thoughtful response. Many of the fruiting plants in my landscape were gifted to me over time and installed around existing vegetation. Some of those older plants have been removed, and the severe damage to the papayas is the result of that change. The damage to the banana suckers was more intentional. I strategically planted them to act as windbreaks protecting my more expensive and cold-

sensitive fruit trees, like mango, June plum, and guinep. The banana suckers served as living shields, buffering cold air and breaking the force of winter winds. While the bananas suffered, the trees they guarded largely did not. They were also assisted by the 3-inch layer of mulch I keep around them as well as the very deep watering they received the day before the temperatures plummeted. This practice protected the roots of all my plants, also

preserving the banana corms, so they could continue to fight long after the inhospitable temperatures had passed. Now, several months later, I have banana pups ready to be replanted. This time, they won’t stand alone. I’ve also invested in a few dense, flowering native plants that will help strengthen the windbreak while adding beauty and supporting pollinators. This layered planting approach aligns directly with Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles: right plant, right

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Creating windbreaks, watering, and spreading thick layers of mulch can help protect more sensitive plants in your landscape when freezing temperatures come calling.

place; attracting wildlife; and reducing environmental stress through smart design. Maybe fruit trees are not your thing, but you have different temperature-sensitive plants in your landscape. The same practices will help them be more resilient. This is when many people remind me that they already have hedges and

use mulch. However, those plants might be failing in their duty because they are unsuitable for the task, or they might be too old and need to be replaced. Another issue might be distance between the hedge and the susceptible plant. In those instances, it is best to add some plantings more proximate to the one you are

trying to protect. Along with everything else I had to think about last January, I was grateful to only have to make sure I watered my landscape to activate the cold protection I’d already planned and had in place. So now I am replanting and adding generous layers of mulch in spring to keep my landscape resilient no matter how many curveballs Florida weather

might throw at me. Now, if only I can think of a work-around to protect my pipes during the next freeze—it’s a good thing we seldom have those temperatures for extended periods of time. Nickie Munroe is an environmental horticulture agent with the University of Florida’s IFAS Indian River County Extension.

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LIVING WELL

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

Your Wishes Granted THERE ARE PROACTIVE STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO MAINTAIN DIGNITY AND RESPECT AT THE END OF YOUR LIFE

I BY RENÁE TESAURO

f you were suddenly incapacitated or diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, would your loved ones know your wishes for end-of-life care? Do you have an advance directive—expressing your desires for personal, spiritual, and medical matters—that meets Florida’s legal requirements? Regardless of what you may already have in place, local health care providers, such

as the Visiting Nurse Association, encourage people to review Five Wishes, a userfriendly, downloadable legal document template that helps you outline, organize, and communicate how you want to be cared for in the event you become seriously ill. It tells your family, caregivers, and health care professionals exactly what you want, so they never have to guess or make

hard choices. Plus, it can be customized to meet the legal requirements of all 50 states, and it can be used by anyone 18 or older. How does Fives Wishes differ from an advance directive you may already have in place? Oftentimes, the living will portion of an advance directive may specify someone’s desire to be cremated, but it may not get specific about where they

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LIVING WELL Documenting end-of-life decisions while healthy is a good place to start before discussing with family and drawing up legal documents.

want their remains, if they want a celebration of life, or what kinds of songs, prayers, or other observances they would like to honor them. Five Wishes allows you to specify your personal, emotional, spiritual, and medical

wishes and also designate someone to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. It helps you outline what you want your legacy to be and gives you and your family added peace of mind.

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What if you already have an advance directive that includes a living will and medical/health care power of attorney? Five Wishes can supersede and negate those documents if you sign it, or it can simply serve as a spring-

board for discussions about sensitive topics that you may not have had before. “I care for many patients with chronic progressive illnesses, such as congestive heart failure, metastatic cancer, or COPD, and I utilize Five Wishes in my role to introduce the subject of goals of care and advance directives,” explains Lisa Sellers, a nurse practitioner with the VNA’s Advance Care Planning team. “I talk about their diagnosis, their prognosis, their family system, and their home system—what kind of

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care they need and what kind of care they are receiving.” That conversation, she says, ultimately leads to advance directives, part of the Advance Care Planning umbrella, which includes a living will. “If you are unable to speak for yourself, does your family know your wishes, or do they have their own wishes for you? It’s all about giving patients dignity, respect, honoring them in the last chapter of their life, and helping them obtain the goals they have,” says Sellers. “The other thing I ask patients is, ‘Who is your medical proxy? Who would be making those decisions? Do you have a power of attorney

over your finances? What is your code status? If you were to pass away or go into cardiac arrest right now, do you want a health care professional to start CPR? Oftentimes, they’ve never thought of that.” Many times, she points out, it’s clearly stated in an advance directive that the patient does not want to be resuscitated, but they do not have legal Florida paperwork. “I was at the home of a patient who was in the final stages of dying,” Sellers reflects, “and he was surrounded by three daughters from out of state. He had nothing in place, and they knew where nothing was. It was very uncomfortable for them

Review advance directives with an estate planning attorney.

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LIVING WELL Injuries can be avoided when players stretch and warm up on the court before competing.

DO YOU HAVE AN ADVANCE DIRECTIVE THAT INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING?

Living will Medical/health care power of attorney Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders For further guidance on wills, advance directives, trusts, and asset protection, consult an estate planning attorney. because we were all trying to figure things out very quickly.” “I had another patient with multiple chronic progressive illnesses,” she continues. “Her daughter wanted me to speak to her mom about her final wishes because her mom did not want to talk about it. So I, in a very gentle way, was able to ask her and then convey to her daughter that she wanted to be cremated. She wanted her ashes to be placed where she grew up. When she passed away several days later, her daughter called me and said, ‘I cannot thank you enough.’ I always give all the credit to God, to be honest. It 78

was through him that we had that opportunity to give this woman dignity and respect as her life ended.” Sellers also recalls a visit to a 90-year-old couple who questioned their need for an advance directive when they were still healthy. “I explained that you’re doing well now, and this is the time to do it.” It’s never too early to make your end-of-life wishes known, she points out. “Patients with cognitive decline and those diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer’s especially need to ensure that their advance

directives are in place, because there’s going to come a time when they cannot tell their health care provider or their family what medical interventions they are willing to go through to prolong their life. During COVID there were many relatively healthy people who did not have advance directives. People were making emotional decisions about their loved ones over the phone and FaceTime.” Making your end-of-life wishes known on paper, Sellers adds, is particularly useful during a second marriage, when sometimes a patient’s children and current spouse are not in agreement. If the patient’s wishes are written down, there is no speculation about what the patient wants, and the family can carry out their loved one’s wishes. Five Wishes was spearheaded in 1998 by Jim Towey, a lawyer who had worked side by side with Mother Teresa as she

Making end-of-life decisions before health challenges arise is ideal.

tended to the sick and dying at a hospice in Washington, D.C. As Mother Teresa’s legal counsel and friend, Towey witnessed firsthand what was important to people as they approached the end of their lives. In 1996, he founded Aging with Dignity, a private nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding and affirming human dignity for those facing end-of-life challenges. Two years later, Five Wishes was developed in collaboration with experts in end-of-life care as well as the American Bar Association’s Commission on Law and Aging with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Since then, the easy-to-use advance directive has been translated into 30 languages and has been used by more than 40 million people. It has been hailed in the media as “the living will with heart and soul,” and it has been embraced by families, community groups, faith communities, medical and legal providers, and businesses. Much like Towey, after 30 years in various areas of nursing, Sellers is passionate about treating the whole person— mind, body, and spirit—not only the disease process. “Just as we honor pregnant women for bringing beautiful babies into the world, we need to start honoring older or chronically, progressively ill patients by fulfilling their end-of-life wishes spiritually, physically, and emotionally.” To download a copy of Five Wishes, click “Advance Care Planning” under “Home Health” on the VNA website: vnatc.com. For more on Five Wishes, visit fivewishes.org.

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founded in 1984, and the tradition continues.

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Your new puppy looks to you for guidance when adapting to his new home.

BEHAVIOR

Normal … or Not? YOUR NEW PUPPY’S BEHAVIOR MAY PRESENT A CHALLENGE

T BY AMY ROBINSON

he puppy you have been waiting for has arrived. Your preparations are complete, and the tiny dependent, born just nine short weeks ago, left behind all he knows to embark on a whole new life with you. This is at once exciting and unsettling. You may see the puppy withdraw a bit as he tries to figure it all out. His initial trepidation is not to be confused with fear. Dogs in general, and puppies in particular, are excellent

judges of their environment, people, other dogs, weird furniture placement, and your 70-inch television. Evidence of this adaptation comes in the form of playfulness and curiosity. Your challenge is to be observant but allowing, indulgent but custodial. In short, a good parent. Take note of what you see. Certain erratic behaviors that seemingly manifest in a minute can be just a rambunctious FRAP (frenetic activity period) or a

signal of what is to come. Days one through three of the new pup’s arrival will be a balance of endless entertainment coupled with frustration. It will be tempting to pick the puppy up to move him from place to place, since locomotion is either full speed, and probably not in the direction you want him to go, or zigzagging at a glacial pace while investigating every tiny speck that has found its way to your floor. Scooping him up quickly

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may seem natural to you, but it is quite startling to the puppy. Your puppy has nowhere he has to be and will either take his sweet time ambling outside or bound boldly across the threshold, chasing a lizard he saw on your deck. House-training and acclimating him to his pen or crate are worthy goals in these early days. Some vocalizing is normal as the puppy experiments with ways to gain your attention. Getting him used to confinement can be easier if you stay within sight without acknowledging him. Many owners think if their puppy follows them around all day, why crate him? This constant shadowing may signal unhealthy dependence and predict separation anxiety, so scheduled naps are advised, just as they are with human toddlers. Some puppies howl and cry at a high decibel level when crated, even when you are close by. If this behavior persists, increase the puppy’s outdoor exercise. While some

level of protest is normal, consistent screeching and biting at the crate bars until his mouth bleeds are not. For this pup, start over by leaving the crate door open and playing some games. Hold his collar and put bits of cheese or cooked chicken just inside the entrance. The motivation has to be sufficient to overcome his reluctance. The puppy may try to reach for the treats, but say “Stay,” gently pet him until he relaxes, and then cheerfully say, “Get in your house” and toss an additional treat in. Release his collar and let the puppy decide what to do without a push from you. Toss more cheese inside when he isn’t looking, so his nose will eventually lead him to it. There are puppies that arrive so full of themselves that they immediately want to stage a coup and take over running the house. Confidence is great, but assertiveness to the point of growling, guarding objects, and snapping at

Puppies need appropriate toys and play to help correct bossy behavior. APRIL 2026

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TRUE TAILS

Ask Amy amy@verobeachmagazine.com

rcy ngely. Da a little stra t c a lush p to a , g rtin te toy dog is sta Her favori t. fi tery in ll My adult r a e c h er holds but physi g ld n o lo rs o a n e ished. legs, is 9 y have dimin ng, floppy lo to h s it m w e y se e l nera monk alks. We lness in ge er leash w fu h y y la jo p n r e e est. H ems to house, py to the p well and se u ts p a a e l g il in st t add She ced, and king abou eing repla in b th is n e e e sh b k have to thin tic dog. g, energe ant Darcy n u w o ’t y n a o d y I g but e will enjo g is maskin en sure sh st in playin re te I’m not ev in f o k ink her lac Do you th blem? erlying pro some und

– Vera in Sebastian Pump the brakes a little on that new puppy. Slowing down is natural for older dogs, but not if it seems sudden to you. First, try some new toys, especially anything scented, but don’t expect Darcy to entertain herself. At her age, she has been there and done that. Attach a leash to a new toy and drag it on the floor so it moves slowly away from her. This should bring out her curiosity. Watch her body language for interest: ears up and eyes fully open, watching it move. A snuffle mat may be another good choice. That allows you to hide treats so she has to use her nose to get at them. A change of scenery, such as walking her in new areas or taking her to a pet supply store, can brighten her day. Sometimes a new puppy can turn the clock back for older dogs, but you are wise to consider an underlying problem. A thorough checkup at your veterinarian will give you some more insight.

d like the ba now I look d n a , rs n o a b s igh y basi d with my ne et on a dail re st e th I am fed up r e ll ov own. I was puppy is a cluding my in , ess rd a y guy. Their s ne’ ss and acc into everyo A1A to cro rd a w nd a to s wandering e u k ix Ja toward y hound m y barreled p p u get p e walking m m se o e lo rs to co lk when th r the owne fo g at in th ll e e the sidewa y m s t wa yelled a his back. I y did, they py ll p a u n p jumped on fi t y a e cross, th when th a d y n a a w , y lf p a p h n I the pu ad we bee t. How can eacting. H an acciden se u I was overr ca r o ver ly be run o control? would like rcise a little xe e to m e th ce convin

– Lenny in Vero Beach You can’t fix bad manners, but you can video record this puppy wandering loose and let Animal Control know about it. These owners may be surprised to learn there is a leash law in Indian River County. The regulation language states: “It is unlawful to allow pets to run at large (off the property of the owner or not under control of a competent person).” The key phrase, “under control of a competent person,” is where they are noncompliant. Authorities won’t confiscate their puppy, but they will call or visit to have a chat. Yes, the owners will likely know it is you making that call, but their actions give you little choice, and they are blaming you for their negligence anyway. Would they like big Jake running into their yard? I doubt it very much. Perhaps if they want that type of freedom for their dog, they should buy acreage west of town.

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TRUE TAILS

Exercise can help your pup settle down more quickly during crated rest periods.

attempts to relieve him of a sock are not to be ignored. This puppy may have been the litter’s little dictator, pushing his mates around, and if he is allowed to continue his bossy ways, it may come back to bite you. Some puppies are separated from their mothers too early, or the mother is stressed during key development phases (think bad breeders and crowded shelters), and thus do not receive the appropriate corrections from the mother. You can gain this pup’s trust and respect by playing another game. Find something your pup might want to guard that isn’t a dog toy, such as a sock or wad of

paper towel. Then, wrap your hand around it. Hold a few treats in your other hand, concealed in your fist. When he noses the hand with the toy in it, say “Wait,” but don’t withdraw your hand. He may nibble on it or paw it, but stay strong. When he stops for just a second, open your other hand and release a few treats. Praise him when he scoops up the treats. Repeat this process until he willingly waits without being grabby. Now give him all the treats and praise him lavishly. Do this at least twice per day. Understand that preventing the guarding behavior is the fastest way to avoid it, so pick up all toys and then dole them

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out one by one, always asking for Wait first. On the other end of the spectrum lives the fearful puppy. While the vast majority of puppies go through a fear phase as they encounter new things, hiding consistently and refusing to greet friendly people or dogs for several weeks should be addressed in a careful, compassionate way. Try inviting people over one or two at a time and ask them to ignore the puppy. Give them treats to drop onto the floor to invite him closer. If the pup is brave enough to sniff a shoe, that is a big win, but reaching toward the pup should be avoided, as he will likely retreat. Signs that the fear phase is

lasting too long or is intensifying would include swift retreats that look like panic, vocalizing to the point of shrieking, baring teeth, and trembling. It’s tempting to pick up this suffering puppy and try to comfort him, but resist this impulse, as he may snap at the hand that feeds him. Often, a trip to a nature trail or park can help bring the puppy back to his roots. Once his nose goes to ground, you can be sure his fear is, for the moment, on the back burner. You are the best judge of what is normal and what is not. A puppy that seems checked out, won’t make soft eye contact, or is way too mellow should prompt a visit to the vet-

Patience is important when dealing with fearful puppies.

erinarian. This is also true for puppies that show little interest in food or treats for more than a day or two at a time. Take video of anomalous behavior and show it to your vet. In general, patience will

prove to be good medicine. The adjustment period may be very short or may last longer than you think it should. The fun part happens when the two of you come to a mutual understanding rooted in love.

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Horse Power VERO BEACH TEEN SHAYE ANDREWS IS RACKING UP THE RODEO RIBBONS BY MELISSA HOLSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN MARTINE

Shaye Andrews and her horse Ace keep their barrel racing skills sharp by competing most weekends at venues in Vero Beach and around the state.

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hen Shaye Andrews bursts into a rodeo arena, one hand gripping the saddle on her quarter horse, dubbed “Ace,” the intuitive pair rounds the first of three barrels with a keen combination of speed and agility that’s putting this Vero Beach teenager on the national rodeo map.

In just seconds, Shaye and Ace circle two more barrels in a cloverleaf pattern before bolting toward the exit—horse and rider proving to a cheering crowd that training and trust pay off. “We’ve definitely developed a very strong connection,” Shaye says of Ace, a 9-year-old male red

dun whose registered name is “Wonders Exhibit A.” “I can tell he really trusts me, and I really trust him,” she adds; “I think that’s the most important thing, or else you’re not going to be able to have a good pattern.” This ambitious 17-year-old barrel racer, who has been nuts

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PHOTOS COURTESY JENNINGS RODEO PHOTOGRAPHY

about horses since as far back as she can remember, has been racking up blue ribbons and cash prizes as she and Ace travel the state and beyond to compete in a rodeo sport Shaye has loved from the start. In the arena, riders race against the clock in a contest

of speed and skill to execute quick, precise turns without mistakes. A fraction of a second or a single bumped barrel can determine the winner. “I always wanted to barrel race,” says Shaye, who grew up in Pompano Beach riding and bingeing on videos of horses, rodeos, barrel racing, and pole bending contests. “I just like the speed events. I mean, that’s what it is, a speed event: who runs the fastest time without knocking those three cans over?” And Shaye knows how to win: she has pocketed around $9,000 from competing in more than 250 sanctioned events, most governed by the Florida High School Rodeo Association, the National Barrel Horse Association, and the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, and also at the Indian River Riding Club in Vero Beach. “I’ve been competing every weekend or every other weekend for probably three or four years now,” says Shaye, who plows her winnings back into supporting her horses and related expenses. She is also attracting business sponsorships with

In Shaye’s first experience at the National High School Finals Rodeo last summer in Wyoming, she and Ace finished in the top half of competitors in barrel racing.

Boot Barn, Quanta Services, Audrey’s Feed & Tack in Vero Beach, and other retailers that connect her with mentors, training, fitness experts, horse care, and more. “It’s a lot of help for me,” Shaye says. “A lot of my sponsors are for my horses, like with [supplement company] OE Nutraceuticals, I get a discount at the vet. That’s a big thing, because obviously my horse is at the vet quite a bit.” Ace receives constant training and a mix of massages, chiropractic care, and supplements to remain in top form. “Horses can fall out of shape within two weeks,” she says, “so I really try to make sure he’s in the best shape.”

Shaye also produces her own social media campaigns to track her rodeo road trips and boost the brands that help back her barrel racing. For Shaye and her parents, Richie and Nikki Andrews, moving to Indian River County from Broward four years ago meant they would be closer to Nikki’s parents, Norman and Carla Sauey, who live in Vero Beach. “They really wanted us to move up here,” Nikki recalls. “They thought it’d be great for her, with her horse riding and … there’s just more access to horse-related events up here, and more barrel racing. It just seemed to fit better here.” Shaye’s riding pursuits also APRIL 2026

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Running Ace through the barrels each day is a workout both he and Shaye enjoy at Painted Sky Farms in Vero Beach.

follow a family tradition: in Nikki’s youth, her grandfather, Norman Sauey Sr., operated an Arabian horse farm in Ocala. “My parents, who have helped finance this very expensive hobby, are very appreciative and happy that this is truly her passion, horses,” says Nikki. “It’s kind of been a family generational thing.” A lifelong love of horses may be thanks to Nikki’s family, but Shaye’s zeal to win comes from her dad—a Florida State football kicker in the 1980s who turned pro for three years. “She definitely inherited her competitive drive from me, and it’s been incredible to watch her channel that determination into achieving her goals,” Richie says. “Shaye sets her sights high, but she always backs it up with relentless effort, both inside and outside the arena.” Summer Almand, owner of Painted Sky Farms on 41st Street in Vero Beach, where Shaye keeps Ace and her other horse, Cash, sees her on-site every day “doing what’s best for her horse.” “She’s a well-rounded, kind, hardworking individual, and in this sport, you do have to work for it,” Almand says. “She puts in the effort.” 96

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As a barrel racer, Shaye joins a rodeo tradition started in Texas in the 1940s by women who wanted to participate in the male-dominated world of bronco riding, calf roping, and steer wrestling, according to madbarn.com. Barrel racing and pole bending—which involves racing around poles set in a straight line—evolved into sanctioned events that generate thousands of dollars in prize money and, for the very best, a chance to

compete at the annual National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. In July, Shaye and Ace competed against the top four barrel racers from every state and six countries during the National High School Finals Rodeo in Rock Springs, Wyoming. She and Nikki drove a grueling 33 hours each way while hauling Ace in a trailer on his first trip out of Florida. “It was an incredible experience that I’d dreamed of,” says Shaye, flashing a huge grin recalling the APRIL 2026

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“

I can tell he really trusts me, and I really trust him. I think that’s the important thing.”

thrill of performing on a national level. “I knew if I worked so hard I would get it at some point. But I didn’t know how soon it would come to me.” Adds Nikki: “She placed in the top half, which, between all the travel and being hard on Ace, we thought he did amazing.” Shaye was also selected as one of the 2025 Boot Barn Future Stars of Rodeo, which earned her an all-expense-paid trip to watch the National Finals Rodeo, held in December. Kaitlin Olson, president of the Indian River Riding Club, where Shaye competes in weekly jackpot events, says she’s earned the accolades. “Shaye was top 12 in Florida for WPRA in the youth [division],” Olson says. Olson selected Shaye as an ambassador to represent her online store, Fancy Broke Western Apparel, because of the way she treats her horses, other animals, and her peers. “Shaye goes above and beyond for all three,” Olson says. “She really makes everyone feel important and cared for.” Shaye’s achievements were further recognized in September, when the Indian River County Cattlewomen awarded her $1,000 as “an outstanding young barrel racer whose talent, determination, and positive spirit shine both in and out of the arena,” the organization’s president, Anna Kirkland, says. After Shaye finishes high school in 2026 at the online Florida Virtual School, she says she plans to begin college-level barrel racing as she ponders a rodeo-related career. “I really want to do something with horses, maybe like wellness with them,” she explains. “There’s so much you can do, and I’m interested in all of it.”

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CoΩee Peak at Its

HAVING SCALED THE WORLD’S HIGHEST MOUNTAINS AND NAVIGATED ITS VAST OCEANS, SEAN WISEDALE NOW APPLIES THE SAME PASSION TO ROASTING THE PERFECT COFFEE BEAN

On the summit of Mount McKinley (inset), Sean Wisedale celebrates with his brother-in-law Anthony Rowan in 2014. As a guide, Wisedale summited many peaks, including the Himalayas’ Island Peak with climbing partner Rob Bentley in 2015.

KELLY ROGERS

t’s a typical morning at Tribe Coffee Roastery and Espresso Bar on 12th Street, just west of Old Dixie Highway. Bright chatter and easy laughter, punctuated by the rhythmic hiss of steam and the velvety aroma of coffee, fill the air. People on their way to work, parents with toddlers in tow, surfers, gymgoers, and retirees pour in as fast as the freshly brewed cups are poured out. Some find a cozy spot to sit and relax. Others huddle over laptops or enjoy quality time with friends at outdoor tables. “It’s all about community, and coffee is the bonding medium,” says owner Sean Wisedale,

COURTESY OF SEAN WISEDALE

By Renáe Tesauro

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KELLY ROGERS

who opened Tribe in 2023 after crossing the Atlantic from South Africa with his wife, Katherine, and their two children, Sarah and Robert, in the family’s 38-foot catamaran. As if that’s not adventurous enough, Wisedale—a filmmaker-turned-mountaineer —holds the distinction of being the first person from Africa to climb the Seven Summits, the highest mountain on each of the earth’s continents. What makes a mountaineer trade his crampons for cupping spoons? “Life, adventure, and a bit of stubborn curiosity,” reflects Wisedale, who

grew up in South Africa and earned degrees in television production and business management. While chronicling adventurous expeditions for the National Geographic and Discovery networks, as well as his own documentary productions, he developed a passion for mountaineering. Wisedale reached the summit of Mount Everest— the world’s highest peak at 29,032 feet—on May 30, 2003. For two months, his team had battled some of the mountain’s worst weather in decades, almost admitting defeat, until a last-minute decision to take

COURTESY OF SEAN WISEDALE

Above: Sean, Sarah, Robert, and Katherine relax at Tribe Coffee. Below: The catamaran African Dream was home to the Wisedale family while crossing the Atlantic in 2021.

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“Life, adventure, and a bit of stubborn curiosity.”

COURTESY OF SEAN WISEDALE

advantage of a late window of favorable weather paid off. By February 2004, Wisedale had scaled the highest mountain on each continent, and he was in high demand as an expedition leader. “The Seven Summits is like getting a gold medal in the Olympics,” he points out. “At the time, only 74 people in history had done it, and there was a bit of a race to see who would be the first South African.”

That accomplishment and years of mountaineering experience earned Wisedale added credibility as a go-to guide for others attempting to scale various mountains around the world. “Knowing the routes, understanding the elements of putting an expedition together, understanding weather … you become a risk management expert, and people entrusted me with their lives,” says the mountaineer, who has reached 77 summits, including Mount Kilimanjaro 34 times. He documented those expeditions in a series of eight one-hour documentaries and a book titled Freeze Frame.

– Sean Wisedale

“Leading a group of 10 clients to the summit of Kilimanjaro, for example, requires approximately 70 porters to assist with food, water, toilets, tents, and supplies,” Wisedale explains. “The way to get up the moun-

tain is to eat your way up, keep your hemoglobin production high, and that involves keeping your energy levels very high. We eat three-course meals, three times a day.” With Katherine’s help, the

Clockwise from above: Kahiltna Glacier, Alaska; Sean on the summit of Island Peak; Mount McKinley; Sean climbing Mount Vinson in Antarctica; high camp of Mount Aconcagua in Argentina

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Wisedales’ adventure touring business thrived from 2004 until 2020 when the COVID pandemic halted travel. By then, however, Sean had become an expert on another topic: coffee. During his climbs, he spent a lot of time on coffee plantations located 15 degrees north and south of the equator at the base of some of the world’s tallest mountains. He met growers, including the owners of Tribeca Coffee, one of the biggest roasteries in South Africa, who hired

him to collect data on climate change, glacial melting, and their impact on coffee production. Soon, he became very knowledgeable about the growing, harvesting, and roasting of coffee. “The agriculture, harvesting, and extraction of coffee is a science,” he says. “We hugely value education, and I’ve made a point of studying coffee.” With COVID in full swing, Sean, Katherine, Sarah, and Robert—then 9 and 4, respectively—packed up their cata-

maran African Dream and crossed the Atlantic. The two-year adventure included stops in Saint Helena, Ascension Island, Brazil, Grenada, the British Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, and ultimately Palm Beach. Katherine acknowledges that homeschooling the children while at sea was challenging, even in the best of times. “I said to Sean, the first thing I’m going to do when we land is find and hug a teacher and never let go. They’re the most amazing people!”

When hurricane season rolled around in 2022, the Wisedales put their boat in storage and returned to South Africa to formulate a plan for opening a subsidiary of Tribeca Coffee in Florida. After returning to the United States, they sailed from West Palm Beach to Vero Beach to pick up some boat parts from a friend. While anchored off Memorial Island, they became acquainted with Vero Beach, took the GoLine into town, and liked what they saw. “The kids played in Riverside

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“It’s all about community, and coffee is the bonding medium.” – Sean Wisedale

KELLY ROGERS

Running the coffee shop on 12th Street is a family endeavor.

Park, and soon we learned that Vero Beach is the best-kept secret as a hurricane refuge. Equidistant from the Fort Pierce and Sebastian inlets, there is little risk of storm surge, and the deep channels are an ideal place to tie up boats during a hurricane,” points out Sean. After sitting out Milton and Nicole in the mangroves here, the Wisedales purchased a home in the Rockridge area, enrolled their children in public school—much to Katherine’s delight—and opened

Tribe Coffee in 2023. Since then, the Wisedales have forged many savory relationships within and beyond the community they now call home. They have set up warehousing for the distribution of green coffee beans they import from Brazil, Honduras, Guatemala, Colombia, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Bali, Mexico, and Ethiopia. “We’re growing this company in Vero Beach to become a market leader in specialty coffee,” says Sean. “I would like to import all the top green bean coffees that are available in the world, and from this point here, distribute green bean coffee throughout Florida. The interesting thing is when I was initially thinking about where we would locate this business, if it were to happen, it needed to be at a strategic junction between Miami, Jacksonville, and Tampa. Here, we are on the apex of the T-junction for all three— the main centers for coffee.”

The roastery provides freshroasted beans and ground coffee to specialty coffee outlets, restaurants, churches, schools, and markets throughout Vero Beach and across Florida. “The roastery element is obviously important for us because we love coffee,” says Sean. When asked what makes Tribe Coffee superior to others in its class, he is quick to point out that it is the air-roasting technology he uses—something he claims no other Florida coffee roaster has. The process uses rapidly moving hot air to heat, lift, and circulate the 100 percent Arabica coffee seeds, much like an air popcorn popper. At 400 degrees Fahrenheit, the outer shell of the seed pops off like a popcorn kernel. That’s known as the first crack. The bitter shells are removed from the roast, resulting in coffee that is naturally sweeter, lighter, brighter, and more aromatic. Beans are packaged without artificial additives or chemi-

cal flavoring and sold within days of roasting to guarantee freshness. When purchasing coffee, Sean advises consumers to check the roast dates on the packaging. “If you’re drinking coffee that’s older than 12 weeks, it’s stale.” As an extension of Tribe, the Wisedales have a mobile coffee trailer with an espresso machine that they set up at community events, such as their children’s Vero Beach Rowing club regattas. They also run coffee catamaran tours aboard their power catamaran Pandora to the Bahamas, Florida Keys, and through the mangroves of Vero Beach. A frequent guest lecturer at local schools and community groups, Sean satisfies his innate passion for climbing by leading an occasional expedition up a mountain. In a recent blog post, summing up his current climb to the peak of the coffee business, he writes, “I still miss the sound of wind over ice. Snow falling on my tent. But now, I hear the crack of first roast, the hiss of the steam wand, and the laughter of people drinking something that started on a mountain, just like me.” APRIL 2026

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Beauty UNTAMED

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Standout state parks in the region include (right, from top) St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, which boasts a 4.2-mile-long kayak trail; Savannas Preserve State Park, home to wildlife such as gopher tortoises, deer, marsh rabbits, and alligators; and Jonathan Dickinson State Park, where the boardwalk carves through natural vegetation and provides views of the 11,500-acre park. Jonathan Dickinson’s Hobe Mountain Observation Tower is currently closed in anticipation of a significant restoration project.

WHEN DEVELOPERS CAME FOR OUR STATE PARKS, WE PUSHED BACK; NOW IT’S TIME FOR US TO APPRECIATE WHAT WE SAVED.

BY ERIC BARTON

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Avalon State Park is a favorite destination for sea turtles and surfers. According to the park’s website, Avalon is most likely to experience “clean” waves when there is an incoming tide and a wind out of the west.

ere’s something we don’t say enough: we live in a state made of miracles. Every day, the sun climbs up over the dunes, lights the mossy hammocks, catches on the brilliant green g reen of the mangroves. And most days, we’re too busy to notice. Florida has 175 state parks, more than nearly any other state—not to mention three national parks (Everglades, Dry Tortugas, and Biscayne). Eight of those state parks stretch across the Treasure Coast like a green sash. These aren’t just picnic spots; they’re habitats for species that exist nowhere else. They’re classrooms, temples, escape hatches … reminders that the real Florida isn’t found behind a gated entrance. In 2024, state officials quietly floated a plan to allow development

on park lands—golf courses, hotels, pickleball courts, the usual suspects. The idea was simple: let’s monetize paradise. But the backlash was swift and loud, and democracy did what it was supposed to. Locals organized. Protesters showed up with hand-painted signs. And in May, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill making it illegal to develop state park land without public input and layers of oversight. So now what? Now we appreciate what we almost lost. We go hiking in the places where they wanted to pour concrete. We kayak the inlets they wanted to dredge. We bring insect repellent and a cooler and remember that Florida, for all its chaos, still has corners where wildness wins. Here are 10 nearby state parks worth falling in love with again. ATLANTIC RIDGE PRESERVE STATE PARK There’s a quiet wildness to Atlantic Ridge, a kind of low whisper from the saw palmettos and longleaf pines as you move along the sandy trails. This park hasn’t been manicured or prettified, and that’s what makes it so beautiful. Covering 4,800 acres of pine flatwoods and hydric hammock, it’s one of those places where you can still get lost in the best way. The main trails are accessible by foot or bike, and a handful of them wind into the St. Lucie River floodplain, where red-shouldered hawks watch from above and deer scatter into the brush. Not many people come here, which means you might have it to yourself—just you, the wind, and a trail that feels like it’s waiting for someone to notice. 8120 SE Paulson Ave., Stuart

Spot red-shouldered hawks at Atlantic Ridge Preserve State Park.

AVALON STATE PARK On this quiet stretch of North Hutchinson Island, the beach is wide and windswept, with the kind of dunes that make you feel as if you’ve stumbled into

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Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers a paved 2-mile multi-use trail.

a different decade. Avalon’s shoreline has barely changed in a century—except maybe for the occasional snorkeler spotting sunken artifacts from the World War II amphibious training ground just offshore. Sea turtles love this place. So do snowy plovers and retirees with folding chairs and a paperback. It’s one of the few beaches in Florida that still feels unbothered, wild even, and that’s the point. State Road A1A North, North Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce (just south of Indian River County)

BEACH STATE PARK

JONATHAN DICKINSON STATE PARK If Florida had a national park equivalent to Yosemite, this would be it. At 11,500 acres, Jonathan Dickinson is massive, sprawling across pine flatwoods, coastal sandhills, and floodplain swamps—all of it dissected by the slow and winding Loxahatchee River. You can hike or bike for hours here and not see another soul, unless you count the Florida scrub jays, which you should. There’s an old Army base hidden in the woods, a pioneer trapper’s homestead on the riverbank, and a strange feeling that the real Florida is still breathing underfoot. 16450 SE Federal Hwy., Hobe Sound NDS OF MACARTHUR

JOHN D. MACARTHUR BEACH STATE PARK This is what it looks like when a barrier island is left to its own devices. MacArthur’s beaches feel primal—sand pines leaning toward the tide, ospreys overhead, and mangroves whispering to one another at the waterline. You’ll cross a winding boardwalk to reach the beach, or paddle out to Munyon Island, where raccoons have a little dominion of their own. The nature center is excellent, but the real magic is outside: nesting turtles, shell-covered shores, and the rare moment when you can hear nothing but surf and your own breathing. 10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive, North Palm Beach

D. The boardwalk at John Park MacAr thur Beach State ch. leads to a pristine bea

COURTESY OF FRIE

FORT PIERCE INLET STATE PARK This is where surfers go when the waves are right. Where anglers cast lines off the jetty at sunrise. Where families walk out past the dunes and discover a beach that still feels like a beach—no condos creeping up behind the palms, no umbrellas stacked five deep. Fort Pierce Inlet State Park comprises just 340 acres, but it packs in a lot: a tidal pool for snorkeling, mangrove-lined trails for paddling, and a stretch of sand that’s long enough to wander into solitude. On the west side of the park, a coastal hammock loop trail lets you disappear into the shade for a bit. And, every once in a while, you might look ahead and see a gopher tortoise lumbering along, minding its own business. Just like you. 905 Shorewinds Drive, Fort Pierce

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N T PLAV ISI t R U O Y more aboaute

t Learsntunning ts a r u s o park state floridrkas.org pa

OKEECHOBEE BATTLEFIELD HISTORIC STATE PARK You won’t find nature trails or kayak launches here. What you will find is a field—a wide, unassuming patch of prairie land in Okeechobee that looks like any other stretch of Central Florida. But this land remembers. In 1837, it was the site of one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the Second Seminole War. Today, it is a quiet monument to that history. A paved walking loop outlines the battlefield, and interpretive signs tell the story of the Seminole warriors and U.S. troops who clashed here. Every January, reenactors return in full dress to honor the fight and its legacy. It’s not the most scenic park in Florida, but it might be one of the most important. 3500 SE 38th Ave., Okeechobee SAVANNAS PRESERVE STATE PARK Here is your chance to see what Florida looked like before the strip malls and medians. Savannas Preserve is 7,000 acres of freshwater marsh and pine flatwoods, with wide-open skies and trails that thread through a habitat so old it feels sacred. You might see a gopher tortoise

crossing the path or a roseate spoonbill lifting off like something from a dream. This is also one of the last strongholds of the Florida scrub jay, a bird that doesn’t migrate or retreat—but just stays put and hopes we keep fighting for it. 2541 SE Walton Road, Port St. Lucie SEABRANCH PRESERVE STATE PARK Seabranch is the introvert of the group: less signage, fewer visitors, no gift shop—just you and the sound of the wind in the pines. The trails are sandy and unmarked, which means you’ll need a little sense of direction and a lot of respect. What you’ll find here is the Treasure Coast as it once was: wildflowers on the ridge, gopher tortoises sunning

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COMING EVENTS WILDLIFE WINS Downtown Stuart hosts several special

The events Statethroughout Park Preservation Actyour calthe year. Mark endar for 2024!

SAM WOLFE

KELLY ROGERS

themselves, and bald eagles watching from above. Bring a compass. Leave with a better sense of where you are. 6093 SE Dixie Hwy., Stuart

This page, top right: Sebastian Inlet State Park is a premium boating, fishing, surfing, and camping destination. Above le : Sebastian Inlet, though challenging to navigate, is a recreational hot spot for all types of watercra enthusiasts. Le : Savannas Preserve State Park’s scrub land is an ideal habitat for the elusive Florida scrub jay, which is federally listed as threatened.

SEBASTIAN INLET STATE PARK This awe-inspiring 1,000-acre park is quite a people-pleaser. Two jetties provide for world-class fishing. The Sebastian Fishing Museum inside the south entrance tells the history of the livelihood/sport in the area. Monster Hole, an area just south of the inlet, is a top-notch attraction for surfers. This park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail and is a feeding ground for juvenile green sea turtles. It’s a great place to see manatees and dolphins, and it can even be a spot for a right whale sighting in winter, if you’re lucky. 14251 Hwy. A1A, Sebastian ST. SEBASTIAN RIVER PRESERVE STATE PARK If you want to see what Old Florida looked like before the highways, before the condos, before the last orange grove gave way to pavement—come here. St. Sebastian River Preserve stretches over 22,000 acres, one of the largest intact longleaf pine habitats in the state. The park straddles the Brevard County–Indian River County line, with trails that cut through pine flatwoods, cypress domes, and seasonal wetlands. It’s a birder’s paradise, with redcockaded woodpeckers nesting in the pines and swallowtailed kites soaring overhead in the spring. You can spot wild turkeys, river otters, and even the occasional black bear if you’re lucky and quiet enough. Horseback riders and mountain bikers share some of the 60 miles of trails, and a scenic drive loops through the preserve, if you’re just here for the views. But give yourself time. This is not a place to rush. 1000 Buffer Preserve Drive, Fellsmere

he threat came quietly at first—a mention at a meeting, a stray document outlining proposals to build golf courses, event spaces, and lodges inside Florida’s state parks. When Casey Darling Kniffin of the Florida Wildlife Federation got a call about it, she couldn’t believe it could be true. “My first reaction was like, no way,” she recalls. “They couldn’t. They wouldn’t.” Then she saw the plans for herself. And it wasn’t just Jonathan Dickinson. It was nine parks across the state. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced its Great Outdoors Initiative in August 2024, stating (in part) that it would increase the number of outdoor recreation opportunities available in Florida’s state parks. Unfortunately, those recreation opportunities included building things like pickleball courts and golf courses in some parks. Word spread fast. On the Treasure Coast, where development plans first surfaced, the movement became a rallying cry. Kniffin helped organize a social media campaign. Environmental activist Jessica Namath started the Protect JDSP group on Facebook—which quickly grew in followers. Wildlife advocate Jeff Corwin wrote op-eds in local papers and appeared on TV speaking out against the developments. Thousands of people wrote letters, showed up at protests, and shared maps of endangered habitats within the parks. Says Kniffin: “Floridians came together—and they spoke very loudly.” And we were heard. Local legislators responded with the State Park Preservation Act, which Governor Ron DeSantis signed in 2025. The act, which went into effect in July last year, strengthens protections, offering assurances that our parks won’t become future commercial developments. In part, the act states that the Florida DEP shall “manage state parks and preserves in a manner that will provide the greatest combination of benefits to the public and to the land’s natural resources, as well as for conservation-based recreational uses, public access, Florida heritage and wildlife viewing, and scientific research.” It also requires a public hearing for all updated land management plans. It is a win to be sure—for nature, its inhabitants, and the locals who care. Says Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades: “The fight to protect Florida’s state parks demonstrated how much Floridians cherish our lands. It was really a remarkable example of the public rising up.” Read the bill in its entirety at flsenate.gov/session/bill/2025/80.

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SIPS

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Welcome to the cocktail world’s most charming twist yet: the genre of spirit-free sips, an opportunity to explore vibrant flavors and boundless creativity without compromising taste, experience, or one’s health. As the wellness movement permeates the beverage industry, nonalcoholic cocktails have earned a permanent place at the table, inviting everyone to have their drink and sip it too.

BY JULES ARON PHOTOGRAPHY BY GYORGY PAPP

Ring My Bell Ignite your senses with this vibrant zero-proof beverage that pairs the sweet notes of yellow bell pepper with refreshing cucumber, crisp green apple, and spicy serrano

(recipe at right) 3 oz. fresh-pressed yellow bell pepper, cucumber, and green apple juice Salt to rim Edible flowers, cucumber ribbons, and/or lime to garnish

3/4 oz. serrano shrub

In a shaker, blend the serrano shrub with the bell pepper, cucumber, and green apple juice. Shake well. Rim your glass with your favorite smoky salt and pour your drink over ice. Garnish with edible flowers, cucumber ribbons, or lime.

SERRANO SHRUB INGREDIENTS 8 limes, zested 4 cups lime juice 4 cups sugar 4 cups white wine vinegar 4 serrano green chilies, whole

INGREDIENTS

Add all ingredients to a jar and let sit for up to 3 days. Decant into a 16-oz. bottle and keep refrigerated for up to 3 months.

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The Tango Express With vibrant hues and aromatic notes, this marriage of sweet mango, rich coconut cream, and exotic cardamom creates an intoxicating experience without the spirit, complete with a whisper of rose water and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios

INGREDIENTS 1 cup ripe mango, diced 1/2 cup coconut cream 1/4 tsp. ground cardamom 1 drop rose water Chopped pistachios, toasted coconut flakes, and/or a culinary-grade rose petal to garnish

In a blender, combine the mango, coconut cream, ground cardamom, rose water, and a handful of ice cubes. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture into a chilled glass. Garnish with chopped pistachios, toasted coconut flakes, and/or a rose petal for a touch of elegance.

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Risky Business This elixir boldly balances the umami richness of a miso syrup with the robust notes of a smoked tea, resulting in a complex sip reminiscent of whiskey drinks INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup brewed Lapsang souchong, cooled 1/2 oz. miso syrup (recipe at right) Citrus peel to garnish

In a stirring vessel, combine the brewed tea and miso syrup with ice. Stir gently to chill. Strain the mixture into a fresh glass and garnish with a citrus peel.

MISO SYRUP INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup miso paste 1 cup agave or honey 1 cup distilled water

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Warm the mixture gently without boiling. Stir until combined. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let cool. Keep refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.

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The Naught-ini A cheeky nonalcoholic take on the classic dirty martini, this sophisticated sipper artfully blends briny olive juice with a touch of rosemary

INGREDIENTS 2 oz. nonalcoholic gin 1 oz. Lyre’s Apéritif Dry 1/2 oz. olive brine 2 drops rosemary oil (optional) Castelvetrano olives on a rosemary sprig to garnish

Chill all ingredients ahead of time. Add the gin, apéritif, and olive brine to a mixing glass with ice and stir. Strain into a chilled coupe. Top the glass with rosemary oil if using and garnish with olives on a rosemary sprig. Light your rosemary sprig for a captivating aroma.

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Lady Lavender Fizz Elevate your palate with the frothy and bright Lady Lavender Fizz, a refined fusion of floral Earl Grey, berries, and lavender

INGREDIENTS 2 oz. Earl Grey tea, cooled 3/4 oz. blueberry lavender syrup (recipe below)

1 oz. fresh lemon juice 1 egg white (1/2 oz.) 1 oz. club soda Culinary-grade dried lavender and/or a lemon twist to garnish

Combine the Earl Grey, blueberry lavender syrup, lemon juice, and egg white in a shaker. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for 15 seconds. Add ice and shake again until chilled. Strain into a glass and top with club soda. Garnish with dried lavender and/or a lemon twist.

BLUEBERRY LAVENDER SYRUP INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup culinary-grade dried lavender 1/4 cup fresh blueberries 1 cup water 1 cup agave or honey

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Warm the mixture gently without boiling, allowing the berries to soften. Gently smash the berries and continue stirring. Take the saucepan off the heat and let cool. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer. Keep refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.

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50% OFF SELECTED ITEMS FLOA

TING DIAMONDS

WHILE GOLD PRICES RISE

we’re keeping our prices low low and customer-friendly

3225 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach (772) 234-1225

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New & Noteworthy

PARTNER CONTENT

Showered with Love Learn about some of the newest services, freshest updates, and latest products from local businesses and organizations

JUMPING FOR JEWELS MARCH 30–APRIL 11: ANNUAL SALE

Leigh Jeweler’s annual storewide sale will offer savings of 10 to 50 percent on gold, diamonds, precious gemstones, and much more. This highly anticipated event is always popular, so shop early for the best selection.

LEIGH JEWELERS 3401 Ocean Drive 772-234-8522 | leighjewelers.com

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Legacy Defined by Neighborly Expertise. For father-daughter team Jim and Stephanie Knapp, real estate is personal. Lifelong Vero Beach residents, they bring a rare blend of expertise and compassion to every transaction… Jim’s 24 years in commercial banking and mortgage lending perfectly complement Stephanie’s 20 years in sales, interior design, staging, and marketing. With 29 years of combined sales success and 18 years as Oak Harbor’s most experienced agents, they offer trusted insight and unmatched knowledge across Oak Harbor, Grand Harbor, the Barrier Island, and beyond.

Jim Knapp

Stephanie Knapp

772-913-0395

772-696-6302

realtor ®

A Global Mindset For A Community-Driven Brokerage

2901 Ocean Drive | Vero Beach, FL 32963 | 772-231-6509

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realtor ®

OakHarbor-Properties.com

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New & Noteworthy MAKING AN IMPRESSION

MARCH 27–APRIL 7: M. MAISON HOSTS LOCAL ARTIST

Beach Umbrellas by Sally Mitchell, oil on canvas, 9 x 12 inches You’re invited to sip, shop, and meet local artist Sally Mitchell at M. Maison March 27. Her paintings, which are primarily representational with some exploring Impressionistic and abstract qualities, will be shown through April 7. Parking is available at the back of the store.

A-TISKET, A-TASKET

APRIL 1, APRIL 4: WORKSHOP AND SALE AT TRIMMINGS

In the spirit of Easter, this month will see a couple of happenings at Trimmings Home Garden Gifts: a flower basket workshop April 1 at 3 p.m. and an Easter (shopping) egg hunt April 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call the store for more information.

M. MAISON

TRIMMINGS HOME GARDEN GIFTS

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

3201 Cardinal Drive | 772-213-8069 shoptrimmingsvb.com

SHOP OPPS

EGG-ING YOU ON

APRIL 3, APRIL 10–11: POP-UP SHOPS

Bungalow Home is excited to share special opportunities to shop this month: First, on April 3, shoppers will enjoy custom-designed hats from Shade Hat Co., individually hand-painted by Annie Mitchell for all occasions, as well as handcrafted jewelry by local artist Chloe Rose. Next, April 10–11, is Loop Vintage Jewelry, which includes collections of handpicked, one-of-a-kind vintage and antique jewelry.

APRIL 4: SPECIAL STORE EVENT

Join Kemp’s for an Eggstravaganza from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Every guest will receive an egg containing a surprise discount from 10 to 50 percent, which may be used on all items purchased at the party. Refreshments, fashions, and surprise discounts await all who attend.

BUNGALOW HOME

KEMP’S SHOE SALON AND BOUTIQUE

615 Beachland Blvd. | 772-213-3024 bungalowhomeco.com

3385 Ocean Drive | 772-231-2771 kempsshoesalon.com

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Timeless 5099 NORTH A1A

VERO BEACH, FLORIDA 32963

ARCHITECT: ROB ATKINS ARCHIECTURE, INC.

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772-234-4427

CONTRACTOR: T.H. WHITFIELD CONSTRUCTION, INC.

LICENSE #IBF000165

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SPECTRUM PROJECT MANAGER: SHELLY CRAFT

PHOTOGRAPHER: © KIM SARGENT

2/9/26 9:56 AM

PARTNER CONTENT

IT’S SHOWTIME!

APRIL 9–12: ANNUAL FILM FESTIVAL Make plans to attend the 10th anniversary celebration of the Vero Beach Film Festival, where you’ll enjoy films, evening events, and group discussions. Visit online to purchase passes.

VERO BEACH FILM FESTIVAL vbfilm.org

WON’T YOU BE OUR GUEST? APRIL 11: GUEST ARTIST EXHIBIT

In conjunction with his guest artist exhibit, “Aloft: Aerial Kite Photography,” Evan Reinheimer will present an interactive talk as part of Gallery 14’s popular Artist Talk series. There will be a question-andanswer period and refreshments.

MARK UP YOUR CALENDAR MAY 23–24: NEW ART WORKSHOP

Due to popular demand, artist Monique Carr has added a May 23–24 workshop exploring textured seascapes, layered marks, and techniques unique to oil and cold wax painting. Visit online or contact by phone to sign up.

GALLERY 14

MONIQUE CARR FINE ART

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

1905 14th Ave. | 423-956-3249 moniquecarr.com

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FORMERLY HAZEL HOUSE

FURNITURE · UPHOLSTERY · OUTDOOR · CASEGOODS · DECOR

@MORGANDUKEPHOTOGRAPHY

Vero Beach’s destination for furniture + design. FURNITURE + DESIGN 615 Beachland Boulevard

OUTDOOR LIVING 1716 Highway A1A

772.213.3024 | WWW.BUNGALOWHOMECO.COM

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New & Noteworthy MAKING ROOM AT THE TABLES PARTNERS UNITE TO ADDRESS FOOD INSECURITY

Meet Leo

Judith Cruz, Meredith Egan, Robin Safley

A Future in Full Bloom “GYAC has impacted me by giving me my first work experiences and allowing me to explore my career of interest. It has also impacted my education by helping me with my homework and assisting me in maintaining my grades.”

United Way of Indian River County recognized the leadership of Judith Cruz of Treasure Coast Food Bank and Robin Safley of Feeding Florida. Their insights on food insecurity underscored rising local need and the importance of strong partnerships to advance long-term community health and stability.

UNITED WAY FOUNDATION OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY 1836 14th Ave. | 772-569-8900 unitedwayirc.org

THE RIGHT MOVE NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN

Thanks to GYAC’s scholarships, Leo can focus on learning, growing, and pursuing his passions while attending South Carolina State University! Let’s help our graduates make an impact!

Plant a seed. Change a life. Change tomorrow.

SCA SCAN C N TO CA DONATE DON NA ATE

The Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County has officially moved! The new space provides enhanced areas designed to support individuals and families impacted by memory and movement disorders.

ALZHEIMER & PARKINSON ASSOCIATION OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY 2300 5th Ave., Suite 101 | 772-563-0505 alzpark.org

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New & Noteworthy

PARTNER CONTENT

LIVE, LOUNGE, LUXE APRIL SALE OPPORTUNITY

Enjoy 15 percent off Abyss & Habidecor linens during April, both in stock and through special order with Coastal Comforts. These European bath linens are made of 100 percent Egyptian cotton. An abundance of colors are available for towels, rugs, and robes, so there’s something for everyone’s style.

COASTAL COMFORTS Village Shops, 6180/6190 Hwy. A1A | 772-226-7808 coastal-comforts.com

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New & Noteworthy LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION REALTOR SHARES NEW OFFICE SPACE

Cathy Curley is pleased to unveil her digs in a pink suite at Dale Sorensen Real Estate’s new office in Riomar! The bright, happy space features designer wallpaper, custom art, and a gallery wall showcasing many of Curley’s most significant sales.

JUST ROSY … AND TURQUOISE LATEST JEWELRY CHOICES SHARED

This beautiful bracelet is one of the latest pieces from Provident Jewelry. Offered in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds and turquoise enamel, this wrist adornment will earn you continuous admiration and compliments.

CATHY CURLEY

PROVIDENT JEWELRY

1700 Hwy. A1A | 772-559-1359 ccsellsverobeach.com

828 W. Indiantown Road, Jupiter | 561-747-4449 providentjewelry.com

Children’s Art Festival VERO BEACH MUSEUM OF ART Saturday, April 11, 2026 10 a.m.–3 p.m. • Art–Making Activities • Music & Dance Performances • Food Trucks • Gallery Tours & More!

3001 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach vbmuseum.org / 772.231.0707

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PARTNER CONTENT

THE SKY’S UNLIMITED EXPANDED LOCAL COLLECTION

LAYERED IN BEAUTY ARTIST’S WORK VIEWABLE NOW

An Imperfect Equilibrium by Belynda Henry, oil and wax on linen, 48 x 36 inches Falasiri Oriental Rugs presents the newest textures from its Florida collection, featuring the sky and lush tropical greenery. These are hand woven using all-natural materials, inspired by Florida’s climate.

FALASIRI ORIENTAL RUGS 2370 U.S. Hwy. 1 | 772-562-0282 falasiriorientalrugs.com

D E S I G N

Findlay Galleries is pleased to highlight work by Belynda Henry. This piece balances layered oil and wax into rich, tactile landscapes that meld meditative observation, luminous color, and the rhythms of nature’s shifting light and form. View it when you visit the gallery.

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

G R O U P

772-217-3952 hello@vbhome.us

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New & Noteworthy EYES OF THE TIGERS

COLLEGE ATHLETES VISIT LOCAL COURSE

The Auburn University golf team, including Jackson Koivun, the world’s top-ranked amateur, visited Indian River Club. The team enjoyed an excellent experience on the golf course.

INDIAN RIVER CLUB 800 Carolina Circle SW 772-234-3998 indianriverclub.com

HEARTS OF GOLD

LATEST PIECES AT LOCAL JEWELRY STORE

Royal Palm Jewel presents a new jewelry collection made in Israel featuring desert gold hearts sprinkled with diamonds. Available in different pieces, you can select one of each and be fully adorned in these lovable looks.

ROYAL PALM JEWEL 23 Royal Palm Pointe, Suite 1A–B | 772-766-3165 royalpalmjewel.com

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PARTNER CONTENT

NO SMALL FEAT

NEWEST FOOTWEAR AT SASSY

Sassy Boutique is excited to carry M. Gemi, a luxury footwear brand that specializes in shoes handcrafted in Italy. Each pair is made in small batches every week to keep the inventory fresh, reduce waste, and avoid the need for large, unsustainable production runs.

SASSY BOUTIQUE 3365 Ocean Drive | 772-234-3998

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New & Noteworthy EYE LOVE OPTIONS

NEW TREATMENT AVAILABLE AT ICONIC DERMATOLOGY

Iconic Dermatology now offers Radiant Eyes, a targeted under-eye revitalization treatment designed to address some of the most common concerns when it comes to the eye area. This advanced mesotherapy service is fast, comfortable, and minimally invasive.

ICONIC DERMATOLOGY 4800 20th St. | 772-758-1310 iconicderm.com

OLD WITH NEW NEWEST ART ACQUISITION

This lacquer painting by well-known and widely exhibited Vietnamese artist Thanh Chuong blends traditional techniques with Western Cubism and modern design. Nicely framed and lit, the painting measures 34 by 28 inches and is available now at Fantastic Finds.

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

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PARTNER CONTENT

COASTAL CHARM NEW REALTOR JOINS GROUP

AMAC | Alex MacWilliam Real Estate is pleased to announce that Rachel Wallach has joined its team. She combines coastal expertise, Southern influence, and a client-first approach informed by decades of professional management experience and strong involvement in the local community.

AMAC | ALEX MACWILLIAM REAL ESTATE 2901 Ocean Drive | 772-231-6509 alexmacwilliam.com

SPARKLE & SHINE

ORGANIZATION PRESENTS AWARD

FURNITURE ACCESSORIES ORIGINAL ARTWORK LIGHTING INTERIORS LIFE STYLE BOUTIQUE

In December, Crossover Mission presented the 2025 Spark Award to Bob Parsons. For 11 years, Parsons has been the guiding force at Crossover, from his founding gift in 2014 to tireless board leadership. He championed and secured the nonprofit’s permanent home—the Crossover Center for Excellence—through faith, persistence, and unwavering belief in our youth.

CROSSOVER MISSION 4425 U.S. Hwy. 1 | 772-257-5400 crossovermission.com

3403 Ocean Drive Across from Bobby’s 772.231.4300 mmaisonvero.com mmaisonvero APRIL 2026

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New & Noteworthy MULTI-FAUCETED OPTIONS FRESH PRODUCTS AVAILABLE

The Eos Neo single-handle, pull-down prep kitchen faucet features a modern, straightforward design. Its laminar aerator provides a quiet, splash-free stream, and the single handle offers precise control over water volume and temperature. It is available now in various finishes at European Kitchen & Bath.

EUROPEAN KITCHEN & BATH 4003 U.S. Hwy. 1 | 772-494-2694 europeansink.com

UNITED IS THE WAY.

ALL THE TRIMMINGS

PERSONALIZED DESIGN SERVICES AVAILABLE

Some storms you see coming. Others you never do. United Way is here — connecting 1 in 4 people in need with those who can help. Your gift today isn’t just a lifeline — it’s the foundation for recovery, before, during, and after a crisis. Take action now & invest in a stronger future.

UnitedWayIRC.org

Indian River County

Emily Taft Interior Design offers customizable services for window treatments, including those that use fabric. These options help complete the design of the space and can be combined with various details to create unexpected, personalized detail. Reach out to discuss the opportunities.

EMILY TAFT INTERIOR DESIGN 3265 Cardinal Drive | 336-655-3800 emilytaftdesign.com

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PARTNER CONTENT

DON’T SWEAT IT

FRESH INVENTORY AT VERNON SCOTT

Vernon Scott Resort Wear is showcasing its newest line of sweaters from the Central Park West collection. Pop into the store and choose which are your favorites.

Isabella Chandelier by Terracotta Designs

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

APRIL 2026

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New & Noteworthy ELECTRIFY YOUR SPRING

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Ben Bryk and J. Vance Brinkerhoff were pleased to sponsor the fi fth edition of the Vero Beach International Tennis Open. The event showcased elite women’s tennis on clay. Canada’s Bianca Andreescu claimed the singles title, while twin sisters Maribella and Allura Zamarripa from Naples, Florida, triumphed in doubles.

VERO PREMIER REAL ESTATE-COLDWELL BANKER Ben Bryk | 772-713-9455 J Vance Brinkerhoff | 772-913-3426

$6850 due at signing after all offers

BELIEVE IN QUALITY. BELIEVE IN LINUS.

LINUSCADILLAC.COM ~ 772.562.1700 ~ LINUSAUTOMOTIVE.COM All prices and payments are plus tax, registration & title fees. Dealer documentation fee of $999. Leases for well qualified current owners/lessees of an eligible competitive luxury brand vehicle. Offers expire date of publication.

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New & Noteworthy

‘A’ FOR EXCELLENCE STUDENT GROUP RECOGNIZED

In January, students from the Gifford Youth Achievement Center attended the Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta, where their performance of Annie Jr. earned them a trophy for Excellence in Acting! GYAC celebrates its students’ accomplishments and thanks Riverside Theatre for its generous support in making this experience possible.

GIFFORD YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT CENTER 4875 43rd Ave. | 772-794-1005 mygyac.org

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PARTNER CONTENT

THOUGHT YOU MIGHT LIKE THIS NEW MODEL HOME TOURS AVAILABLE

AR Homes is thrilled to share that its newest model home is officially complete! Thoughtfully designed with spacious living areas, inviting indoor-outdoor flow, and elevated details throughout, this home truly showcases what’s possible when design meets lifestyle. Contact the team to schedule a private tour.

AR HOMES | BEACHLAND HOMES CORP. arhomesverobeach.com | 772-492-4018

APRIL 2026

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New & Noteworthy LATEST LIGHTING

LOCAL STORE PRESENTS NEWEST PRODUCT LINE

Terracotta Designs, available at LED Capstone, was founded with a belief that lighting should do more than illuminate—it should inspire. Whether French provincial, modern artisan, or coastal elegance, this lighting is designed to feel timeless and intimate. Stop in to see the Terracotta display in LED Capstone’s showroom.

ISLAND LIFE

NEWEST EXHIBITION AT GALLERY

Sunset Over The Indian River by Linda Arnold, oil on canvas, 30 x 30 inches Meghan Candler Gallery is pleased to present the “Florida Painting Exhibition.” Inspired by our island location in subject, colors, in styles from abstract to representational, this collection features new work by all gallery artists. All works are also viewable online.

LED CAPSTONE LIGHTING & FANS LLC

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

VODA CLEANING & RESTORATION OF THE TREASURE COAST

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PARTNER CONTENT

PLEASED TO RSVP AT HOME

ANNUAL FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT INDIAN RIVER LAND TRUST

LOVE COLLECTION

The Indian River Land Trust is pleased to partner with Ryder’s Gourmet Market for its annual “Stay at Home” fundraiser. Certificates are $150 and include dinner and dessert for two, along with a bottle of preselected white or red wine. Certificates can be purchased through April 30 and are valid until June 15, 2026. To purchase, visit the website or call.

CUFF WITH MULTI-COLOR SAPPHIRES SET IN 18KARAT WHITE GOLD AND DIAMONDS

INDIAN RIVER LAND TRUST 3150 Cardinal Drive, Suite 201 | 772-794-0701 irlt.org

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The CT4-V Blackwing earns its fifth 10 Best award, leaving the competition far behind. To experience award-winning performance and precision, visit Linus Cadillac to learn more.

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

ROYAL PALM JEWEL FINE JEWELRY COLLECTION

49 Royal Palm Pointe, Suite 202 Vero Beach, Florida 32960 772-766-3165 RoyalPalmJewel.com

APRIL 2026

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D E S I G N ERS ROW

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VI LL AG E S H O PS THE STOP-SHEDDING REVIVAL COLLECTION where shedding slows and confident begin to return

RIVERSIDE GARDENS 200 GREYTWIG RD , #212, VERO BEACH 32963 When shedding feels out of control, it’s not just your hair you are losing, It’s confidence, familiarity, the way you recognize yourself in the mirrow

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For women who want real, visible relief, not another promise or complicated routine. This thoughtfully designed system works together to calm excessive shedding, support thinning areas, and help restore fullerlooking hair over the course of 90 days; Designed for women navigating hormonal shifts, thyroid changes, chronic stress, or age-related density loss. This collection helps rebalance the scalp and nourish follicles from the inside and out - with a clear plan.

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6180/6190 Hwy A1A Vero Beach, FL 32963 772-226-7808 sales@coastal-comforts.com www.coastal-comforts.com

• Unique Gifts • Home Furnishings • Bed & Bath • Custom Window Treatments • In-Home Design Services

2/23/26 12:32 PM

M I R ACLE M I LE

Happy Easter!

Fresh-Baked Hot Cross Buns Entertaining with style & distinction for over 41 years.

486 21st Street, Vero Beach (772) 563-0646 elizabethkennedycatering.com

“It’s a fresh tomato; it’s delicious.” 2040 Treasure Coast Plaza, Vero Beach, FL 32960 772-217-8985 www.6thAvenueJewelers.com

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– MICHAEL AMARAL

“Culinary Adventurer,” p. 146

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Local Flavor THE DISH | OFF THE VINE | MIX IT UP

146 KIM BOTTALICO

THE DISH

In his own way, chef Michael Amaral brings the world to Vero Beach.

APRIL 2026

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THE DISH

ENTERTAINING

Culinary Adventurer IN HIS OWN WAY, CHEF MICHAEL AMARAL BRINGS THE WORLD TO VERO BEACH BY CHRIS FASOLINO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM BOTTALICO

rom the turquoise-and-white awnings of the Commander’s Palace restaurant in New Orleans to the medieval stone tower of Castello Banfi in Tuscany, Chef Michael Amaral’s life has been full of variety, which is in turn reflected in his Vero Beach restaurant, River Twist. Wary of “overexplaining” his food, he notes wryly, “Sometimes I read a menu and I can tell it’s a younger chef because of how many adjectives he’s throwing in. I kind of fly under the radar.” Amaral’s father was also a chef, as well as a teacher of culinary arts. “One of his students was Emeril [Lagasse], who would come over to our house with a couple of kids after school.” The Lagasse connection led to Amaral’s employment at both the Commander’s Palace and a sister restaurant in Houston. When an elderly Creole chef there found out that Amaral was from Massachusetts, he told him: “This food’s going to taste a little different—there’s more flavor!” Wherever he has traveled, Amaral has tried to remain observant. “I think in life you kind of have to pay attention all the time, and then apply techniques in different places.” He loves Asian cuisines, and among his European influences are Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and French. He notes that classical French cuisine is “very meticulous, and I appreciate that, but then you eat in Italy, where they chop the tomatoes like my grandmother did,” not worrying about making the slices of equal thickness. After all, “it’s a fresh tomato; it’s delicious.” Amaral’s travels thus give him a sense of balance as he seeks to combine attention to detail with spontaneity and flair. His trip to Castello Banfi, a historic winery in the Tuscan countryside, involved his whole family, along

with some of River Twist’s staff. Another recent adventure was a trip to Portugal, which included a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant where squid ink was used in just about every dish, “including the ice cream,” he quips. (Actually, the squid ink was used not in ice cream but in mousse.) If all this makes you expect a creative and eclectic menu at River Twist—apologies for the adjectives— you’re right. Even the decor is distinctive, with the bar, tables, chairs, and other items made by Amaral himself. “There’s no designer who said, ‘You have 14 booths in the harvest gold color.’” What would be the adventure in that?

Chef Michael Amaral includes flavor influences from all over the world in his menu.

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APPETIZER

Salt and Pepper Chicken Livers Amaral’s father used to say: “I’ve never seen a chef walking around with a recipe book under his arm.” Nevertheless, Amaral put together a few recipes for the home cook, beginning with this Southern-style appetizer. SERVES 4 1 lb. chicken livers, drained 1 cup all-purpose flour 4 cups vegetable oil Kosher salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Drain the chicken livers and pat them dry. Season with the salt and pepper; while the amounts are “to taste,” the chef encourages a generous hand with both salt and pepper. Dredge in the flour. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot and deep-fry the chicken livers until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes on each side. Serve the fried chicken livers accompanied by both onion jam and aioli for a combination of flavors.

Onion Jam: 1 medium Spanish onion, diced 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp. granulated sugar 1 tbsp. cider vinegar Pour the oil into a pan and add the onion. Sweat the onion, cooking it lightly, until it is light brown. Add the sugar and vinegar and cook at medium heat for 10 more minutes.

Aioli: 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise 1/4 cup sour cream 1 tbsp. chipotle powder 1 tbsp. fresh garlic, chopped Juice of 1/2 lemon Salt and pepper to taste Puree all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. APRIL 2026

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THE DISH

ENTRÉE

Garlic Shrimp The garlic, lemon, and basil make for a great combination. At River Twist, this dish is served on a bed of capellini latkes—pasta formed into cake shapes. SERVES 2 10 shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied 1/2 cup whole garlic cloves, peeled 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, separated 1/4 cup water Salt and pepper to taste Lemon basil butter, see below Prepare a garlic puree: place the peeled garlic cloves in a pie pan, season with salt and pepper, and add the 1/2 cup olive oil and the water. Cover with foil and roast in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20–30 minutes. Remove foil and roast another 10 minutes until brown. Puree the soft roasted garlic and spread on a foil-lined baking pan. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Heat 1 tbsp. olive oil in a pan and sear the shrimp at medium-high heat for about a minute on each side. Remove and place on the baking pan, on top of the garlic puree. Put it back in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes. Remove from oven, spread with lemon basil butter, and serve immediately.

Lemon Basil Butter: 1/4 lb. unsalted butter 1 tbsp. fresh basil, chopped Zest of one lemon Salt and pepper to taste Combine ingredients in mixer and whip until light in color and soft, with a pesto consistency. 148 VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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DESSERT

Creole Bread Pudding “In New Orleans, desserts are super sweet, and everything else is spicy—it’s very ‘in your face,’” recalls Amaral. SERVES 6 1 loaf French bread, diced 1 tbsp. + 2 tbsp. butter, separated 8 eggs 4 cups heavy cream 1 1/2 cups brown sugar 2 tbsp. ground cinnamon 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 3 tbsp. bourbon Pinch of salt 1/4 cup pecan halves 1/4 cup golden raisins

Rub 1 tbsp. butter in a cake pan and place the bread in the buttered pan. Make a custard by whisking the eggs and then mixing in the heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, bourbon, and salt. Pour over the bread. Sprinkle with the pecans and raisins, and push them into the mixture. Then form the additional butter into small nubs and push them into the mixture. Cover the pan and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. Then remove the cover and bake for another 15 minutes, until it turns golden brown on top. Allow to cool for 20 minutes before serving. APRIL 2026

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OFF THE VINE

The Casa Ferreirinha Papa Figos Douro Red Blend bottle is adorned with its namesake, the fig-eating golden oriole (which also enjoys grapes).

PAPA FIGOS

The Wine of Migration LET’S ENJOY AN OPPORTUNITY TO BLEND OENOLOGY WITH ORNITHOLOGY BY CHRIS FASOLINO

s spring gets underway, many of our snowbirds are preparing to head north. Those of us who are year-round residents wish them a safe journey and happy returns next season! So it seems like an appropriate time to sample a wine that is associated with migration. Of interest to me as both a wine enthusiast and a birdwatcher, Casa Ferreirinha Papa Figos Douro Red Blend has a label featuring the Eurasian golden oriole. This bright-yellow bird is affec-

tionately known in Portuguese as “papa figos” (“fig eater”) because of its fondness for the Mediterranean fruit. Its autumnal departure coincides with harvest time in the vineyards, whilst its spring return heralds new growth. The male golden oriole portrayed here is therefore a fitting—and vibrant—emblem. When you think of winemaking in Portugal, you probably think first of Port, and perhaps only of Port. Casa Ferreirinha Papa Figos

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The four grape varietals blended to make Papa Figos are grown in Portugal’s scenic Douro Valley.

proves that there is more to Portuguese winemaking (It also offers extraordinary value for its price point). Don’t get me wrong—I am certainly a proponent of good Port. Nevertheless, Portuguese wines like this one are well worth knowing about. Papa Figos is a blend of four different grape varietals that are often used, and indeed blended, for Port. So why isn’t this a Port wine? Because it is not fortified. It is the addition

of brandy during the fermentation process that makes Port wine rich and sweet (the latter because it stops the fermentation process while residual sugar remains). That method is not used here, so there is a lighter texture that pairs well with a meal rather than with a dessert. Port is velvet; this wine is silk. Included among the four varietals featured in the blend is Tinta Roriz, known in Spain as Tempranillo; it

is a great varietal in itself, as I have explored in previous columns. The blend makes for a complex yet vibrant wine, with spice notes of freshly grated nutmeg and allspice, along with a hint of orange peel. A versatile wine, it could pair well with beef dishes or a charcuterie platter. I tried Papa Figos at a “Wine & Dine with the Captain” event at Capt. Hiram’s—a dinner with a Portuguese theme—but it can be ordered through

Total Wine. By the way, there is also a white blend with a female golden oriole on the label. Ornithology, a touch of whimsy, and good wine— what more can I ask? APRIL 2026

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MIX IT UP

COCKTAILS

Refined Rebellion

TRACING ISLAMORADA’S RUM RUNNER SPIRIT FROM PROHIBITION TO TODAY

he legend of the rum runner is rooted in the waters surrounding Islamorada, where Prohibition-era smugglers operated in secret to transport spirits from the Caribbean. These audacious operatives navigated treacherous channels, transforming Islamorada into a hub of rebellion and resilience. The rum runner’s storied past lives on at the Tiki Bar at Three Waters Resort & Marina, where the iconic cocktail of the same name—a blend of rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, and orange juice—was crafted to honor the daring spirit of those days. The resort elevates its historic roots via the upcoming Helm to Hearth culinary weekend, slated for April 17–19. This festival brings together some of the Southeast’s most acclaimed chefs and includes oceanfront receptions, a sevencourse tasting experience, and a brunch with live-action stations. Celebrating the Keys’ rich culinary heritage, the event also champions sustainability, with proceeds supporting the Coral Restoration Foundation—ensuring that the region’s pristine ecosystems thrive for generations to come. Get into the spirit with this recipe for a classic Rum Runner. (isla moradaresortcollection.com)

COURTESY OF ISLAMORADA RESORT COLLECTION

BY JULES ARON

Rum Runner Ingredients 1 1/2 oz. light rum 1 oz. banana liqueur 1 oz. blackberry liqueur 2 oz. orange juice Orange slice and cherry to garnish Add the light rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, and orange juice to a shaker with ice. Shake well. Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice, then garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.

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serving fresh local and northern fish

Happy Hour

ALL YOU CAN EAT

fish fry TUESDAY NIGHTS

ALL DAY UNTIL 6PM

lobster

EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Gift Certificates • Private Parties • Patio Dining • Parking Reimbursement

Check out our new lunch menu!

TUESDAY 4 PM - 8:30 PM

WED-THURS 11:30 AM - 8 PM

FRIDAY 11:30 AM - 9PM

SATURDAY 12 PM - 9 PM

SUN-MON CLOSED

1931 Old Dixie • 772.770.0977 • fishackverobeach.com

“I always wanted to barrel race.” – SHAYE ANDREWS “Horse Power,” p. 92

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WEDDINGS

Love to the Rescue NICHOL RENEE COSS & GRIFFIN DANIEL THOMPSON

SHE IS ART PHOTOGRAPHY

he marriage of Nichol Renee Coss and Griffin Daniel Thompson took place December 12, 2025 at The Barn at Grant Station. The bride is the daughter of Michelle Coss and Tony Riberio of Sebastian. She grew up in Connecticut and holds an associate degree. She relocated to Florida in 2018 and currently works as the marketing and retail manager at Capt. Hiram’s. The groom is the son of Kim and Dave Thompson of Sebastian. He grew up in Vero Beach and Sebastian and now serves as a firefighter-paramedic with Indian River County Fire Rescue. The reception was held at The Landing Rooftop in Melbourne. Nichol and Griffin found that not everyone understood why they opted for a small wedding with fewer than 40 attendees, but the simplicity allowed for a stressfree day with special touches that helped make it unforgettable. For example, both bride and groom wrote personalized letters to each guest and were able to spend quality time with each one. Another sweet touch came from the father of the bride, who made the wedding cake from scratch. The newlyweds embarked on a honeymoon to the Eastern Caribbean. Their favorite experience was visiting Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, a country that enchanted them with its turquoise waters and unique shops. The Thompsons reside in Sebastian.

Mr. and Mrs. Griffin Thompson

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Top: Theresa Thompson, Jamie Leonard, the bride, Brianna Finley, Selah Scopino Left: Theresa Thompson, Selah Scopino, Jamie Leonard, Brianna Finley, the bride and groom, Cole Thompson, Dylan Miranda, Clayton Leonard, A.J. Finley, Tyler Osterman APRIL 2026

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O N TH E B E ACH

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BEACH MEDITATIONS Oil 48” x 60” Artist Elise Geary

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“I’ve made a point of studying coffee.” – SEAN WISEDALE

“Coffee at Its Peak,” p. 100

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O N TH E B E ACH

Shoe Salon and Boutique

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Harbour Bay Plaza Sewall’s Point 772-221-9973 Kemp’s Too Sale Outlet Miracle Plaza West 772-567-3998

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Vero Beach Bracelet

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GRADUATE GEMOLOGISTS CUSTOM DESIGN • JEWELRY & WATCH REPAIR

2/23/26 12:50 PM

THE SCENE

Stepping Up WHETHER IN DRESS SHOES, BOOTS, OR SNEAKERS, LOCALS COME OUT TO SUPPORT NONPROFITS

Craig Price, Judie Price, Elizabeth Price

Nina Morse

‘Violin Virtuosity’

Lindsay Garritson, Hina Khuong-Huu

VERO FRIENDS OF THE ACO Rising violinist Hina Khuong-Huu, just 21 and already making her mark on the world stage, performed a benefit concert for the Vero Friends of the Atlantic Classical Orchestra. Titled “Violin Virtuosity,” the event was held January 12 at Orchid Island Beach Club. Khuong-Huu was joined by celebrated Treasure Coast pianist Lindsay Garritson. After the music, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception. Proceeds benefit the ACO’s programming.

Hina Khuong-Huu and Lindsay Garritson perform.

MARYANN KETCHAM

Rey Neville, Regina Moran

David Amado, Jean Beckert

Tom and Page Mead, Norma Hathaway, Lynne Bortree

Keena and Chris Clifford

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Glenda Taylor, Alan and Michelle Brenner Chad Morrison, Tom Lowe, Alan and Lisa DeFrances

Virginia and Warren Schwerin, Lynn Tepe

Marci Arnold, Alex Heater, Kierstin Parker, Sydney Granitur

Ray and Sue Riddell Leonard Whitlock, Robin Rutherford, Ricki Michals, Jean Beckert APRIL 2026

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MAUREEN NICOLACE

THE SCENE

Karen Franke, Jenna Schwibner, Neal Watkins

The Darling family: Ramie, Maylin, Ramie Jr., Katie, and Cora

Denim & Diamonds AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY The fifth annual Denim and Diamonds Hope Gala, held December 5 at Magnolia Manor, raised more than $330,000, including $97,000 toward pediatric cancer research. Special guest Ramie Darling Jr. shared his story: just 12 years old, he has already fought a rare form of liver cancer and undergone a liver transplant. “Legacy of Hope” recognition was bestowed upon Kristen Tripson, who became an oncology nurse after her husband, Sam, succumbed to cancer in 2015. It was a full evening, enhanced by the music of Vero Beach/Nashville singersongwriter Kurt Stevens. Major sponsors: Bernard A. Egan Foundation; Jake Owen Foundation; Michael Merrill LLC; Shambo, Schwibner, Schwartz Wealth Management Group Merrill Lynch; Marlene and Bobby Lindsey

Brian and Mary Shambo, Brittany Madon, Jessica Paparian

MARYANN KETCHAM

Neal Watkins, Michael Merrill

Karen Franke, Mike Lafferty Greg and Angela Nelson, Karen Egan, Bernadette Emerick, Paul Lucas 160 VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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Jeff and Eilis Powers Tom and Page Mead, Diane Langevin, Melinda Cooper

Jonathan and Jennifer Peshke

MARYANN KETCHAM

Sara Beth Roberts, Melissa and Andrew O’Leary, Shannon O’Leary, T.P. Kennedy

David Marine and Elaine Bath Jason and Grace Baran, Andrea and Cory Six, Frank Del Rocco APRIL 2026

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H O M E & GAR D EN

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“White Done Right,” p. 68

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H O M E & GAR D EN

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THE SCENE

Eileen O’Donnell, Kenny Borchers, Peggy Cunningham

A sizable team represents event sponsor Aqua Home Care.

Walk to Remember ALZHEIMER & PARKINSON ASSOCIATION Several records were broken by the 22nd annual Walk to Remember, which took place back in November at Riverside Park. More than 650 walkers representing 63 teams participated, exceeding all prior years’ figures, and the event raised a record amount of money in support of the organization’s mission. Forty sponsors also did their part to help make the walk a resounding success. The Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County offers programs for patients and families dealing with the challenges of memory and movement disorders. Major sponsors: George E. Warren LLC; Aqua Home Care; Berkshire Hathaway Home Services–Beth Livers; Cleveland Clinic; Coastal Concierge Services; SpirePoint Private Client; 97.1 Ocean FM

MAUREEN NICOLACE

Walkers at the starting line are joined by a patriotic stilt man in honor of Veterans Day.

David and Leah LoPresti

Seamus Keenan, Jake Williams, Kevin and Carolyn Swords, Julia Keenan, Nicole Williams, Jim Keenan, Christian and Becky Stirrat

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Celebrating 250 years of American art

On view January 31–June 7, 2026

3001 Riverside Park Drive 772.231.0707 / vbmuseum.org American Made was organized by The Mint Museum and the Dixon Gallery & Gardens Edward Moran (1829-1901), Summer Morning, New York Bay, 1873. Oil on canvas. Courtesy of the Thomas H. and Diane DeMell Jacobsen PhD Foundation.

the

P Hall

CAVE gallery ofart

Jeﬀ Hall

Artist Reception Sunday, April 22 1:00 - 4:00

Lisa Cave

Exhibition: April 22 - May 17th

Robert Wong

Lisa Cave Claudia Lucia 1420 20th St. Downtown Vero Beach

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Mary Oneal

David Bence

Wednesday - Friday 11:30 - 3:00 By Appointment

Chris Villarose www.thecavegalleryofart.com

2/23/26 2:06 PM

THE SCENE

Giant bubbles are always a hit.

A band plays at the Schidel Pavilion.

A young guest has an electric experience.

Lagoonapalooza ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER On January 24, the ELC welcomed more than 2,500 guests, from longtime supporters to first-time visitors, for its annual Lagoonapalooza. This free nature and music festival became the most well-attended community event in ELC history. Lagoonapalooza is meant to inspire people of all ages to spend more time outdoors, appreciate nature, and be better stewards of our environment. Throughout the day, participants explored the 64-acre campus on its boardwalk trails, engaged with hands-on exhibits, kayaked in the lagoon, and hopped onto the ELC’s pontoon boat for quick eco-tours. Several bands provided live music.

ELC STAFF

Little ones use nets to explore the Indian River Lagoon.

Major sponsors: Alex MacWilliam Real Estate; GHO Homes; Cox Pinson Environmental Services; Vero Glass & Mirror; White Glove Moving, Storage & Delivery

A face painter helps make the day colorful. Guests take a pontoon boat ride.

Children love Lagoonapalooza!

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Vero Millwork, Inc. is Indian River County’s oldest locally owned and operated door, trim and accessories company. Come visit our showroom and sit down with one of our experts. Come See Our Newest Hardware Displays

5150 42nd Place | Vero Beach, FL 32967 | 772-569-7155 | VeroMillwork.com

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3-DAY OPERA FESTIVAL Competition 16 Competition: AprilApril 15 & 1615 at 3&pm ALL AprilApril 17 at 7 17 pm All STAR StarConcert: Concert

This is your chance to hear the world’s top young rising opera singers compete for major cash prizes. Competition tickets are only $10 per day!

VeroBeachOpera.org

VBHS Performing Arts Center TOCQUEVILLE

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GALLERY GUIDE

Artsy April SPRING INTO SOME GALLERIES THIS MONTH AND BE SHOWERED WITH ART

‘MASTERWORKS’ THROUGH MAY 2

English Countryside by Georgina (Edwina) Lara, oil on canvas, 20 x 30 inches

Last month, we featured John Phillip Osborne and John C. Traynor, the living artists of J.M. Stringer’s “Masterworks” exhibition; this month, we highlight the 19th- and early-20th-century aspect of the show, as exemplified by the 1890 painting shown here. Georgina Lara was a British painter about whom little is known. She was born in the mid-1800s and sometimes went by the name “Edwina Lara”; hence the “E. Lara” signature on this work. In fact, much scholarly debate surrounds her identity and attributions under alternate names. Biographical particulars aside, her charming and detailed scenes of village and farmyard life captivate the viewer. J.M. Stringer Gallery of Fine Art 3465 Ocean Drive 772-231-3900 jmstringergallery.com 168 VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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ONGOING EVENTS

‘ALOFT’ APRIL 1–24

Through April 6 Every six weeks, the Art Club hangs a new themed, juried exhibition of works by its members. “Hearts on Fire” opened in February.

New Yorker Evan Reinheimer fell in love with both photography and kites as a small boy, and he has found a way to combine the two passions. In the days before drones, he developed his own clever system for rigging a camera-kite apparatus that allows him to capture amazing images from unique perspectives. Despite the painstaking nature of his work, he continues to do it, because he can accomplish things that even today’s drones cannot. Enjoy Reinheimer’s art and learn how he does it at Gallery 14’s “Aloft: Aerial Kite Photography by Evan Reinheimer” exhibition. A reception will be held April 3 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Vero Beach Art Club 1903 14th Ave. 772-231-0303 verobeachartclub.org

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

‘HEARTS ON FIRE’

Blue Stripe Umbrella by Evan Reinheimer, photography, 45 x 30 inches

TIMOTHY SANCHEZ

Through April 30 The CSC continues its exhibition of paintings by Timothy Sanchez. Center for Spiritual Care 1550 24th St. 772-567-1233 centerforspiritualcare.org

‘AMERICAN MADE’

Through June 7 VBMA’s “American Made: Painting and Sculpture from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection” continues, featuring 85 works by renowned American artists spanning our nation’s entire 250-year history, with an emphasis on the 19th and 20th centuries.

Art Deco by Evan Reinheimer, photography, 40 x 80 inches

‘CONSTRUCTION’

Through June 21 VBMA’s chief curator, Caitlin Swindell, has combined select loans with works from the museum’s permanent collection to present “Construction: from Abstraction to Architecture.”

‘MUSEUM IN THE GARDEN’

Through February 7, 2027 VBMA has launched a long-term show tracing the evolution of its innovative expansion design. “Museum in the Garden: Envisioning the New VBMA” includes sketches, renderings, and architectural models. Vero Beach Museum of Art 3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707 vbmuseum.org

CHARLES NEAL APRIL 6–30

Findlay Galleries presents a solo exhibition of works by contemporary British Impressionist Charles Neal, featuring landscapes and coastal scenes of England, France, and Italy. Inspired by nature, Neal is intrigued with the effects of time, seeking to capture moments before they undergo the inevitable change that occurs constantly. His works explore time, light, atmosphere, and color through refined painterly observation. Findlay Galleries 165 Worth Ave., Palm Beach 561-655-2090 findlaygalleries.com

View to Biarritz from Guethary by Charles Neal, oil on canvas, 24 1/8 x 36 1/8 inches APRIL 2026

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GALLERY GUIDE

Rising by Claire Kendrick, oil on canvas, 36 x 60 inches, at Meghan Candler Gallery

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 Art instructor Betsy Nelson offers a variety of classes and one-onone lessons. The gallery also shows an eclectic collection of works by U.S. artists. 2036 14th Ave., Suite 106 772-559-5230 artworksofvero.com

THE CAVE GALLERY OF ART Established in 2025 by artist Lisa Cave, this gallery features works by contemporary Florida artists and holds regular exhibitions. 1420 20th St. 772-925-2168 thecavegalleryofart.com ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER The Lagoon and Tidal Rooms are dedicated to nature-related art. 255 Live Oak Drive 772-589-5050 discoverelc.org

BARDOT NYC This gallery and glass studio features glass art and classes by Toni Somma as well as a variety of works by guest artists.

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.

907 7th Ave. 732-673-3384 bardotnyc.com

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 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, along with represented artists and rotating monthly guests. 1911 14th Ave. 772-562-5525 gallery14verobeach.com THE GALLERY AT WINDSOR This independent art space annually invites curators of museum-quality shows of contemporary art. 3125 Windsor Blvd. 772-388-4071 windsorflorida.com/the-gallery

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 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 LOPRESTI ART GALLERY This gallery and studio features the work of versatile husband-and-wife artists David LoPresti and Leah Blythe. 927 7th Ave. 772-538-1454 loprestiartgallery.com

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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.

OCEAN DRIVE GALLERY Featured are the abstract oils of Elise Geary; landscapes, still lifes, and en plein air oils by Sally Mitchell; and the representational acrylics of Andrea Lazar.

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

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

MONIQUE CARR FINE ART At her vibrant studio/gallery, Monique Carr creates and displays her abstract seascapes, florals, and pure abstract works.

PALM HOUSE STUDIO & GALLERY The work of several awardwinning artists is featured, and commissions are welcome.

1905 14th Ave. 423-956-3249 moniquecarr.com

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

SEBASTIAN RIVER ART CLUB The club offers classes, demonstrations, workshops, and art shows. 1245 Main St., Sebastian 772-321-9333 sebastianriverartclub.com SEVENTH AVENUE STUDIO The gallery features the abstract art paintings of Rita Barone and the varied works of Janet Kipp Tribus.

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

2304 7th Ave. 772-359-6283, ritabarone.com 772-766-0636, jkipptribus.com VERO BEACH ART CLUB This independent nonprofit serves more than 600 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

ALOFT:

AERIAL KITE PHOTOGRAPHY BY EVAN REINHEIMER Show Dates: Tuesday March 31 - Friday April 24 Reception: Friday April 3, 5-8pm

Rainbow Umbrellas

g a l l e r y 14 www.moniquecarr.com 1905 14th Ave. | Vero Beach | 423.956.3249

1911 14th Avenue, Vero Beach | 772.562.5525 gallery14verobeach.com Gallery Hours: Tues - Fri, 10am - 5pm Sat, 10am - 4pm or by appointment

APRIL 2026

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April Attractions T

SHOWS, SPORTS, AND CELEBRATIONS BRING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER

KYMANI AUSTIN

ERIN MILLER

‘Stars, Stripes & Song’

Under the direction of Jacob Craig, Senior Resource Association’s Silver Tones will delight audiences with patriotic songs April 9. The program will include “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “This Land Is Your Land,” “God Bless the USA,” “America the Beautiful,” and more. Two shows will take place—10 a.m. and 6 p.m.—at First Presbyterian Church, 520 Royal Palm Blvd. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Nearly 75 voices strong, the ensemble consists of volunteer singers aged 55 and over who enjoy sharing their love of choral music with the community. They present three major themed concerts each season, plus smaller performances at venues such as assisted living communities. For more information about the Silver Tones, call 772569-0760 or see seniorresourceassociation.org.

It’s time to call “Action” on the annual Film Festival, which will take place April 9–12. Independent filmmakers will be in town to show their work, which will be judged by both the jury and audiences. Winners will be selected for awards in the categories of narrative features, documentary features, dramatic shorts, comedy shorts, and documentary shorts. In addition to the film screenings at various locations around town, there will be parties, food, and wine tastings. Three types of passes are available, starting at $60. To learn more, see vbfilmfest.org or call 772-444-2827.

TYLER CALL

Vero Beach Film Festival

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RECURRING EVENTS EVERY SATURDAY

admission. April 11, 10 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.

FARMERS MARKET Browse produce, baked goods, handcra ed items, and more at the Vero Beach Farmers Market, at the corner of Ocean Drive and Dahlia Lane. 8 a.m.–noon

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

Business Inspiring Kindness 2901 Ocean Drive verobeachfarmersmarket.com

ART ALLEY WALK Several galleries in the 900 Building behind Chili’s, representing multiple artists, host a monthly art walk with food, drink, and live music. April 17, 5–8 p.m.

EVERY FIRST FRIDAY FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY STROLL Enjoy a spring stroll through downtown, meeting artists and friends as you visit the art galleries, restaurants, and cafés. April 3 and May 1, 5–8 p.m. Downtown Vero Beach Along 14th Avenue 772-562-5525 (Gallery 14)

EVERY SECOND SATURDAY VBMA FREE ADMISSION On the second Saturday of each month, the museum offers free

APRIL GOOD VIBRATIONS This Beach Boys tribute band celebrates the legacy and spirit of the legendary California group, with songs such as “Surfin’ USA,” “Barbara Ann,” “I Get Around,” and more of their many hits. 7–9 p.m., $45–$95 MusicWorks at The Emerson Center 1590 27th Ave. 772-777-9321 musicworksconcerts.com

APRIL TIPSY TURTLE As peak sea turtle nesting season approaches, Coastal Connections holds its annual Tipsy Turtle 2-mile fun run and festival. There will be music, prizes, shopping, a raffle, a photo station, Easter activities, and more. 8–10 a.m.; race registration: $25–$45, festival only: free

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EVERY THIRD FRIDAY

Artists of the 900 Building 900 7th Ave.

EVERY LAST FRIDAY DOWNTOWN FRIDAY Enjoy a community street party with live music, street vendors, and food trucks. April 24, 6–9 p.m., free Main Street Vero Beach Downtown along 14th Avenue 772-643-6782 mainstreetverobeach.org

Coastal Connections at Jaycee Park 4200 Ocean Drive 772-226-0133 runsignup.com/race/fl/verobeach/ tipsyturtle2mile

APRIL

Computer “allergic allergic”” to working? We can help!

4881 North A1A, Vero Beach 772-234-1555 www.autobahnco.com

CHASE YOUR TAIL K It’s time for HALO’s eighth annual 5K supporting its no-kill rescue facility. Runners and walkers (and their dogs) are welcome; they will enjoy a beautiful run/walk along the river, entertainment, and breakfast bar, and will receive a T-shirt, bandana, cooling towel, and swag bag. 7:30 a.m., $30–35 HALO at Sebastian Community Center 1805 N. Central Ave., Sebastian 772-589-7297 halorescuefl.org/walk-for-rescues

APRIL

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CALENDAR

J. PATRICK RICE

Soprano Lauren Carroll performs at the 2025 Rising Stars concert.

Rising Stars

Attention opera fans! The culmination of Vero Beach Opera’s season is upon us: the annual Rising Stars vocal competition and concert, to be held at the Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center (1707 16th St.) April 15–17. A dozen of the world’s most promising young talents will be in town to compete in front of a live audience, with Ian Campbell as master of ceremonies. Semifinals will take place Wednesday, April 15 (3 p.m., $10) and finals on Thursday (3 p.m., $10). On Friday, the competitors will perform their best arias in a finale concert (7 p.m., $32–$102), after which the winners will be announced. The prize for first place is $10,000, and the second- and third-place winners will take home $5,000 and $3,000, respectively. For more information, see verobeachopera.org or call 772-569-6993.

Karen Schubert and the ACO perform April 9.

APRIL 9 BRIDGE TOURNAMENT A morning of bridge will benefit the local Boys & Girls Clubs, located in Vero Beach, Sebastian, and Fellsmere. Bridge play will be followed by a luncheon, raffle drawing, and awards. 8:30 a.m. registration and continental breakfast, 9 a.m. play begins; $100 Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County at Quail Valley River Club 2345 Hwy. A1A 772-299-7494 bgcirc.org ‘THEMES & VARIATIONS’ For Masterworks IV, the final concert of the season, ACO’s principal horn, Karen Schubert, will shine as featured soloist on Mozart’s

Horn Concerto No. 4 in E-flat major, K. 495. Selections from Brahms and Paul Hindesmith will round out the evening. 7 p.m., $55–$80 Atlantic Classical Orchestra at Community Church of Vero Beach 1901 23rd St. 772-460-0851 atlanticclassicalorchestra.com

APRIL 10 ‘ALLUSIONS & ALLEGORIES’ Ballet Vero Beach’s ability to tell stories in unexpected ways will be on display as the company presents the main-stage debut of Camilo A. Rodriguez’s And So It Goes and the return of Yves de Bouteiller’s West Side Story Suite. Also April 11; Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday 2 and 7:30 p.m.; $10–$90

Ballet Vero Beach at VBHS Performing Arts Center 1707 16th St. 772-269-1065 balletverobeach.org

APRIL 11 CHILDREN’S ART FESTIVAL VBMA will hold its annual day of art-making activities, music and dance performances, art hunts, and docent-led tours for all ages. Food trucks will also be present. 10 a.m.–3 p.m., free Vero Beach Museum of Art 3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707 vbmuseum.org CRAFT SPIRITS FESTIVAL Guests at the Treasure Coast Craft Spirits Festival will have the opportunity to sample, purchase, and learn about craft-distilled spirits from the 25 distillers who will be on hand. There will also be an outdoor cigar lounge. Admission includes unlimited tastings, appetizers, and bottled water. 2–6 p.m., $108.55 Sunrise Rotary Vero Beach at Airport Drive treasurecoastspiritsfestival.com

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‘DEEPLY ROOTED’ GALA The historic Heritage Center will host an exciting event honoring 23 local pioneer descendants under 50 years of age who have stayed in the area to rear their families and continue the work of their ancestors who settled here. Wild Thyme will cater the alfresco dinner, Dan Richey will lead a panel discussion, and Wesley Davis will conduct a live auction. The evening will also include a silent auction and open bar. 6–9 p.m., $150 Vero Heritage 2140 14th Ave. 772-770-2263 veroheritage.org NIGHT SOUNDS The British Invasion cover band St. John’s Wood will play at the pavilions on the south side of the state park for an evening that will also include food trucks and games. 6–9 p.m., $10 Friends of Sebastian Inlet State Park 14251 Hwy. A1A 772-388-2750 friendsofsebastianinletstatepark.org

APRIL 12 THE SLEEPING PRINCESS This hour-long, modified performance is part of BVB’s Accessible/ Family Friendly series. 2 p.m., $10 Ballet Vero Beach at VBHS Performing Arts Center 1707 16th St. 772-564-5537 (box office) balletverobeach.org

APRIL 13 REGINA PALM The senior curator of the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach, Regina Palm, will take part in VBMA’s International Lecture Series with a talk called “American Made: Highlights from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection.” 4:30 p.m.; Holmes Great Hall $130 members, $160 nonmembers; streaming or Leonhardt Auditorium simulcast $90 members, $110 nonmembers

Dogs for Life will hold its Patriot Awards and Graduation April 11; also on April 11, VBMA hosts the Children’s Art Festival.

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

Church Youth Choir and will feature a 60-piece professional orchestra and three soloists. 7 p.m., free (donations appreciated)

APRIL 14

Vero Beach Choral Society at VBHS Performing Arts Center 1707 16th St. 772-217-5470 verobeachchoralsociety.org

ORCA LECTURE In celebration of Citizen Science Month, the Ocean Research & Conservation Association presents “Empowered by Data: Citizen Science in Action,” a talk on the importance of community-driven research. 3 p.m., free ORCA 1235 16th St. 772-562-9052 teamorca.org CARMINA BURANA The Choral Society will perform Carl Orff’s 1936 cantata Carmina Burana. The concert is a collaboration with the Vero Beach High School chorale, Saint Edward’s chorus, Indian River Charter High School choir, and First Presbyterian

APRIL 15 HERITAGE BLUEGRASS The series continues with the band True Grittz. Proceeds from the 50/50 raffle will support the music program at Sebastian River Middle School. 6:30 p.m.; free entry, $20 reserved seating Vero Heritage 2140 14th Ave. 772-770-2263 veroheritage.org

OMPHOTO

Dogs for Life at Pointe West Country Club 7500 14th Lane 772-567-8969 dogsforlifevb.org

9 to 5 the Musical

From April 16 through May 3, 9 to 5 the Musical will play at the Riverside Theatre. In this case, the stage show is based on the movie, released in 1980, which had a screenplay by Colin Higgins and Patricia Resnick and a cast that included Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dabney Coleman. Resnick modified the screenplay into the book for the musical, which features music and lyrics by Parton. It has been performed on Broadway, in London’s West End, and on several tours, and now Vero Beach audiences will have a chance to enjoy it, thanks to presenting sponsors Lisa and Ron Hunt. Showtimes vary, and tickets start at $50. For more information, see riversidetheatre.com or call the box office at 772-231-6990.

PATRIOT AWARDS & GRADUATION This celebration includes live patriotic music, dinner, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and the graduation ceremony for service dogs and their handlers. Proceeds help DFL provide service and therapy dogs for veterans. 5:30 p.m., $150

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CALENDAR JACKIE ROBINSON GAME This annual game celebrates No. 42’s achievements while supporting the local United Way. Opening ceremony 6 p.m., game starts 6:42 p.m.; $12–$15, children 3 and under free United Way of Indian River County at Jackie Robinson Training Complex 3901 26th St. 772-567-8900 unitedwayirc.org

APRIL 17 FUNDRAISING WEEKEND Wheels & Keels is getting ready for its 16th annual fundraising weekend, which kicks off Friday evening with a cocktail reception and dinner, a live auction conducted by Wesley Davis, and presentations by the supported charities (6 p.m., $275). On Saturday, it’s the concours-style Antique & Exotic Car Show, complete with food trucks (10 a.m.–2:30 p.m., free). Wheels & Keels Foundation at The Moorings Yacht & Country Club 100 Harbour Drive 772-559-9758 wkvero.com

APRIL 18

Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Riverside Theatre’s Distinguished Lecturer Series presents its final guest of the season, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who will speak at 4 and 6 p.m. on Monday, April 20. She is the 47th governor of Arkansas and the first woman to hold the position, following in the footsteps of her father, Ambassador Mike Huckabee. From 2017 to 2019, Sanders served as White House press secretary. She has also held various other political roles on both the state and national levels. In 2020, her book, Speaking for Myself, was published, becoming a New York Times Best Seller. Tickets for the lectures are $145.60 for the Stark Main Stage and $83.20 for the Waxlax theater simulcast. Call the box office at 772-231-6990 or visit riversidetheatre.com.

JAZZ LUNCHEON The Jazz Society welcomes young trumpeter and vocalist Bria Skonberg for this luncheon concert. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 11:30 a.m. lunch, 12:30 p.m. concert; $80 Treasure Coast Jazz Society at Oak Harbor Club 4755 S. Harbor Drive 772-234-4600 tcjazz.org COMMUNITY DAYS In honor of its centennial, McKee Botanical Garden will charge just $5 admission to Indian River County residents as a way of thanking the community for its support. Also April 19; both Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. McKee Botanical Garden 350 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-794-0601 mckeegarden.org

APRIL 21 GOLF TOURNAMENT Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Lucie, Indian River & Okeechobee Counties will hold its 14th annual fundraising golf tournament.

10:30 a.m. check-in begins, 11:30 lunch, 1 p.m. shotgun start; $240 Big Brothers Big Sisters at The Moorings at Hawk’s Nest 6005 Old Dixie Hwy. 772-466-8535 bbbsbigs.org SPRING CONCERT Students of the Gifford Academy for Performing Arts (formerly Gifford Youth Orchestra) will take part in a joyful evening of music celebrating the season of spring. Their performances will highlight their hard work, musical growth, and ensemble collaboration. 6:30–8 p.m., free Gifford Academy for Performing Arts at Salt of the Earth Ministry 3190 45th St. 772-213-3007 giffordacademy.org

APRIL 23 THE DISPUTE IRSC theater students will perform a new translation (by Alex Kanter) of Marivaux’s 1744 “battle of the sexes comedy” The Dispute. Through April 26; Thursday and Friday 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 2 p.m.; $17–$20 McAlpin Fine Arts Center 3902 Virginia Ave., Fort Pierce 772-462-4750 irsc.edu/community/performing-arts

APRIL 24 BALLET UNDER THE STARS Guests at BVB’s signature fundraiser will enjoy an exclusive ballet performance, a buffet dinner, an art and wine raffle, and an evening of dancing to jazz music by the Dave Capp Project. 6 p.m., $200 Ballet Vero Beach at Windsor Town Center 3125 Windsor Blvd. 772-269-1065 balletverobeach.org

APRIL 25 CHAMBER CONCERT The VBCO will be joined by members of the Ocean Youth Orchestra for a concert that will include selections by Leo Delibes, Jules Massenet, Reinhold Glière, and Pyotr Tchaikovsky. 7 p.m., free (donations encouraged) Vero Beach Chamber Orchestra at VBHS Performing Arts Center 1707 16th St. 772-539-2876 verobeachchamberorchestra.org

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Wounded Waters’ Offshore War fishing tournament happens May 2.

ONGOING EVENTS THROUGH APRIL 12 ALMOST, MAINE John Cariani’s series of nine vignettes explores love and longing in the fictional town of Almost. Times vary, $75 Riverside Theatre 3250 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-6990 riversidetheatre.com

THROUGH APRIL 15 TAX PREP SERVICE The United Way’s VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program is available at no charge to residents with household incomes of $68,000 or less. Five tax preparation sites are open by appointment. United Way of Indian River County at five locations 772-203-5766 unitedwayirc.org/taxes

THROUGH MAY 24 ‘FLORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN’ McKee’s centennial exhibition, created by Santa Fe artists Kevin and Jennifer Box, comprises 17 monumental metal sculptures inspired by the Japanese paper-folding art of origami. Regular admission fees apply. McKee Botanical Garden 350 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-794-0601 mckeegarden.org

THE MOUSETRAP Agatha Christie’s unconventional whodunit The Mousetrap will have a 12-show run at the Theatre Guild. Through May 10; Fridays 7:30 p.m., Saturdays 2 and 7:30 p.m., Sundays 2 p.m., plus Thursday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m.; $15–$35

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

APRIL 26

THE MET LIVE IN HD VBO and Majestic 11 team up to give local opera fans a chance to enjoy Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin, broadcast live from the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. 1 p.m., $30

‘SUNNY BOHEMIA’ The SCSO welcomes cellist David Calhoun as guest soloist on Dvorák’s Cello Concerto during an evening of Bohemian music. Additional selections include Dvorák’s Symphony No. 8 and the Southern U.S. premiere of Daniel Perttu’s Nimue and Her Fairies. 3 p.m.; $35 in advance, $40 at door, students 18 and under free, flexible pricing available

Vero Beach Opera at Majestic 11 940 14th Lane 772-569-6993 verobeachopera.org

Space Coast Symphony Orchestra at VBHS Performing Arts Center 1707 16th St. 855-252-7276 spacecoastsymphony.org

The VNA Golf-A-Thon will take place at Oak Harbor May 4.

MAY 4 GOLF-A-THON Thirteen pros from local clubs will once again get together for a marathon day of golf benefiting the VNA’s work providing home health and hospice care. Everyone is invited to support the mission by sponsoring a favorite pro. VNA & Hospice Foundation at Oak Harbor 4755 S. Harbor Drive 772-978-5568 foundation.vnatc.com/golf-a-thon

MAY 2 OFFSHORE WAR This event is a chance to support local veterans while spending the day fishing. It’s Wounded Waters’ fourth annual tournament, and it’s going to be the biggest to date. Participants will compete for cash prizes, and young anglers will once again have their own Rock the Dock tournament, which is free to enter. 6 a.m.–4 p.m., $250–$300 per boat; registration party and mandatory captains’ meeting 6 p.m. the evening before the event Wounded Waters at Causeway Cove Marina 601 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce 772-321-9366 woundedwaters.org APRIL 2026

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

The Directory THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

ATTORNEYS GOULD COOKSEY FENNELL 772-231-1100 gouldcooksey.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 LOWNDES 772-231-4440 lowndes-law.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 LULICH & ATTORNEYS 772-571-4473 lulich.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICES

KELLY ROGERS

LINUS CADILLAC BUICK GMC 772-562-1700 linuscadillac.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

ARCHITECTS JAMES R. STEIN ARCHITECT 772-217-8449 jrsarch.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 MOULTON LAYNE PL 772-234-0445 moultonlayne.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 R + C ARCHITECTURE 772-588-4999 rcarch.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 ART GALLERIES & FINE ART THE CAVE GALLERY OF ART 772-925-2168 thecavegalleryofart.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 FINDLAY GALLERIES 561-655-2090 findlaygalleries.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 GALLERY 14 772-562-5525 gallery14verobeach.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

J.M. STRINGER GALLERY OF FINE ART 772-231-3900 jmstringergallery.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 THE LAUGHING DOG GALLERY 772-234-6711 thelaughingdoggallery.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 MEGHAN CANDLER GALLERY 772-234-8811 meghancandlergallery.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

BANKING, INVESTMENTS & FINANCIAL PLANNING CALDWELL TRUST COMPANY 772-213-9144 ctrust.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 19 CHARLES SCHWAB & CO. INC.— LOLA DANZA, MBA 772-231-8012 schwab.com/app/branch-services/financialconsultant/lola-danza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156 GLENMEDE 561-571-4900 glenmede.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES INC. 203-705-4222 advisors.ubs.com/shantzmantione . . . . . . . . 27

MONIQUE CARR CONTEMPORARY FINE ART AND ATELIER 423-956-3249 moniquecarr.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

BEAUTY, HAIR & SPA SERVICES

OCEAN DRIVE GALLERY 772-579-7667 oceandrivegalleryverobeach.com . . . . . . . . 156

BOATING & MARINE SERVICES

PROVIDENT FINE ART INC. 561-833-7755 providentjewelry.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 VERO BEACH MUSEUM OF ART 772-231-0707 vbmuseum.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128, 165

SALON DEL MAR 772-234-1499 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

DECKMASTERS LLC 772-559-8629 deckmastersmarine.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163 VERO MARINE CENTER 772-562-7922 veromarine.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

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KELLY ROGERS

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

CATERING, GOURMET MARKETS, WINE & SPIRITS ELIZABETH D. KENNEDY & COMPANY INC. 772-563-0646 elizabethkennedycatering.com . . . . . . . . . . 144 COMPUTERS & AUDIOVISUAL CONSULTING AUTOBAHN COMMUNICATIONS INC. 772-234-1555 autobahnco.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

HBS GLASS 772-567-7461 hbsglass.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

VODA CLEANING & RESTORATION 772-532-3616 myvoda.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

THE HILL GROUP 772-567-9154 thehillgroup.biz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

WINDSOR PROPERTIES 772-388-8400 windsorflorida.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9, 37

R + C ARCHITECTURE 772-588-4999 rcarch.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING SERVICES

RCL DEVELOPMENT 772-234-0140 rcldev.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

AR HOMES/BEACHLAND HOMES CORP. 772-492-4018 arhomes.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

REILLY CONSTRUCTION 772-794-9799 building2last.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

CROOM CONSTRUCTION COMPANY 772-562-7474 croomconstruction.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

T.H. WHITFIELD CONSTRUCTION INC. 772-696-3736 thwhitfieldconstruction.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

DC ROOFING 772-362-2904 dcroofingindianriver.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

VERO BEACH ROOFING INC. 772-770-3782 verobeachroofing.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

DECKMASTERS LLC 772-559-8629 deckmastersmarine.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

VERO GLASS 772-567-3123 veroglass.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

FLORIDA FLOOR FASHIONS 772-589-4994 floridafloorfashions.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

VERO MILLWORK INC. 772-569-7155 veromillwork.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

COUNTY SERVICES INDIAN RIVER COUNTY SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT 772-226-3212 indianriver.gov . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173 EDUCATION & CHILD DEVELOPMENT GIFFORD YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT CENTER 772-794-1005 mygyac.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE FOUNDATION 772-462-4772 irsc.edu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 FASHION & ACCESSORIES COOPER & CO. 772-231-9889 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157 KEMP’S SHOE SALON AND BOUTIQUE 772-231-2771 kempsshoesalon.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

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M. MAISON 772-231-4300 mmaisonvero.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

PAGE 2 DESIGN 772-492-9220 page2design.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 11

FLORIDA SHUTTERS 772-569-2200 floridashuttersinc.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

SASSY BOUTIQUE 772-234-3998 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 VERNON SCOTT RESORT WEAR MEN & WOMEN 772-231-3733 vernonscott32963.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

SUNSHINE FURNITURE 772-569-0460 sunshinefurniturecasual.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

HBS GLASS 772-567-7461 hbsglass.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

TRIMMINGS HOME GARDEN & GIFTS 772-213-8069 shoptrimmingsvb.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

THE HOUSE OF LIGHTS & HOME ACCENTS 800-541-3048 thehouseoflights.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES

GIFTS, STATIONERY & KEEPSAKES

BUNGALOW HOME CO. 772-213-3024 bungalowhomeco.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

COASTAL COMFORTS 772-226-7808 coastal-comforts.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

THE LAUGHING DOG GALLERY 772-234-6711 thelaughingdoggallery.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

LED CAPSTONE LIGHTING & FAN SHOWROOM 772-205-2529 ledcapstone.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

EUROPEAN KITCHEN & BATH 772-770-9970 europeansink.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

M. MAISON 772-231-4300 mmaisonvero.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

MACATA STONE 772-778-3210 macatastone.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

FALASIRI ORIENTAL RUGS 772-562-0150 falasiriorientalrugs.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

TRIMMINGS HOME GARDEN & GIFTS 772-213-8069 shoptrimmingsvb.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

OWENS CUSTOM RUGS 772-228-8074 owenscustomrugs.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

FANTASTIC FINDS 772-794-7574 fantastic-finds.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

VERANDA 772-234-3404 verandajewelry.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

TRIMMINGS HOME GARDEN & GIFTS 772-213-8069 shoptrimmingsvb.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY build.com/ferguson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUBS

THE HOUSE OF LIGHTS & HOME ACCENTS 800-541-3048 thehouseoflights.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 THE LAUGHING DOG GALLERY 772-234-6711 thelaughingdoggallery.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 LED CAPSTONE LIGHTING & FAN SHOWROOM 772-205-2529 ledcapstone.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 LYRA HOME 772-257-4777 lyrahome.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 M. MAISON 772-231-4300 mmaisonvero.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133 OWENS CUSTOM RUGS 772-228-8074 owenscustomrugs.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

GRAND HARBOR GOLF AND BEACH CLUB 772-778-9000 grandharbor.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 INDIAN RIVER CLUB 772-770-0757 indianriverclub.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

LBU LIGHTING 777-323-2852 lbulighting.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

VERO BEACH ROOFING INC. 772-770-3782 verobeachroofing.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163 VERO GLASS 772-567-3123 veroglass.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 VERO MILLWORK INC. 772-569-7155 veromillwork.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

BARKER AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING 772-562-2103 barkerac.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

VODA CLEANING & RESTORATION 772-532-3616 myvoda.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

DECKMASTERS LLC 772-559-8629 deckmastersmarine.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES

DESIGNER’S TOUCH FLOORING 772-978-9111 designerstouchflooring.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 EUROPEAN KITCHEN & BATH 772-770-9970 europeansink.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 FLORIDA FLOOR FASHIONS 772-589-4994 floridafloorfashions.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

COASTAL COMFORTS 772-226-7808 coastal-comforts.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 COASTAL INTERIORS 772-492-6881 coastal.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 7 EMILY TAFT INTERIOR DESIGN 336-655-3800 emilytaftdesign.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY JOHN W. MCDONALD, MD 772-562-2929 mcdonaldmd@bellsouth.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 OCEAN OAKS DENTAL 772-569-4424 oceanoaksdental.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173 SELECT SKIN MD 772-567-1164 selectskinmd.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 TREASURE COAST COMMUNITY HEALTH 772-257-8224 tcchinc.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS GIFFORD YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT CENTER 772-794-1005 mygyac.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

KELLY ROGERS

INDIAN RIVER LAND TRUST 772-794-0701 irlt.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE FOUNDATION 772-462-4772 irsc.edu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 TREASURE COAST COMMUNITY HEALTH 772-257-8224 tcchinc.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

ISLAND INTERIORS AT OCEAN REEF INC. 772-770-6007 islandinteriors.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

M. MAISON 772-231-4300 mmaisonvero.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

LEAH MULLER INTERIORS 772-234-6411 leahmullerinteriors.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

OCEAN DRIVE JEWELERS 772-234-1225 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

UNITED WAY OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY 772-567-8900 unitedwayirc.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

PROVIDENT JEWELRY 561-833-7755 providentjewelry.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

VERO BEACH FILM FESTIVAL 772-444-2827 vbfilmfest.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

ROYAL PALM JEWEL 772-766-3165 royalpalmjewel.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION 772-202-8570 vnatc.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

VERANDA 772-234-3404 verandajewelry.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

WOMEN’S REFUGE OF VERO BEACH 772-770-4424 womensrefugevb.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

MEDICAL SERVICES

PERFORMANCE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MEDIA

PAGE 2 DESIGN 772-492-9220 page2design.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 11 SPECTRUM INTERIOR DESIGN 772-234-4427 spectrumvero.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 VB HOME DESIGN GROUP 772-492-9348 vbhome.us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 JEWELRY 6TH AVENUE JEWELERS 772-217-8985 6thavenuejewelers.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144 THE LAUGHING DOG GALLERY 772-234-6711 thelaughingdoggallery.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 LEIGH JEWELERS 772-234-8522 leighjewelers.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 76, 157

ALTITUDE DENTAL 772-567-7889 altitudedentalfl.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 COMPLETE WOMEN’S HEALTH 772-918-9500 completewomenshealth.org . . . . . . . . . 82, 167 ICONIC DERMATOLOGY 772-758-1310 iconicderm.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

RIVERSIDE THEATRE 772-231-6990 riversidetheatre.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 VERO BEACH FILM FESTIVAL 772-444-2827 vbfilmfest.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 VERO BEACH OPERA 772-569-6993 verobeachopera.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

INDIAN RIVER HOME CARE 772-569-3885 indianriverhomecare.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

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LAURA (RIDING) JACKSON FOUNDATION 772-569-6718 lauraridingjackson.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52, 150

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REAL ESTATE AMAC | ALEX MACWILLIAM REAL ESTATE 772-231-6509 alexmacwilliam.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 AMAC | ALEX MACWILLIAM REAL ESTATE -CHARLOTTE TERRY GROUP 772-234-8500 charlotteterry.com . . . . . . . . . . . 88, back cover AMAC | ALEX MACWILLIAM REAL ESTATE -THE KNAPP TEAM 772-913-0395 oakharbor-properties.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES FLORIDA REALTY 772-231-1270 bhhsfloridarealty.com . . 61, inside front cover CLIFF NORRIS REAL ESTATE LLC 772-231-5595 cliffnorrisre.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 DALE SORENSEN REAL ESTATE 772-532-0010 sorensenrealestate.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 3 DALE SORENSEN REAL ESTATE -CATHY CURLEY 772-559-1359 cathycurleyrealestate.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 JOHN’S ISLAND REAL ESTATE COMPANY 772-231-0900 johnsislandrealestate.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

THE MOORINGS REALTY SALES CO. 772-231-5131 themoorings.com . . . . . . . . . . inside back cover ONE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY -SHERRY BROWN 772-633-1472 verobeachislandrealtor.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 VERO PREMIER PROPERTIES COLDWELL BANKER 772-713-9455 floridaeastcoastluxuryhomes.com . . . . . . . . . 72 WINDSOR PROPERTIES 772-388-8400 windsorflorida.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9, 37 RESTAURANTS FISHACK 772-770-0977 fishackverobeach.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 PIZZOODLES 772-567-4160 pizzoodles.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 SPORTS, ACTIVITIES & FITNESS LEVEL YOGA 772-365-4407 levelyogastudio.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 VERO BEACH CLAY SHOOTING SPORTS 772-978-0935 verobeachclayshooting.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

TRAVEL SERVICES PREFERRED TRAVEL OF NAPLES INC. 772-410-4410 preferrednaples.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Contributing Advertising THE AD AGENCY E. Fred Augenstein 772-538-3923, augy@comcast.net Ad design and production, all media, full service 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 Marketing, advertising, and graphic design from concept through production VERO MARKETING Lindsay Candler 772-473-0654, veromarketing.com Creative graphic design, print marketing, and website design

Vero Beach Magazine (ISSN 1097-2013) is published monthly by Palm Beach Media Group, 3375 20th St., Suite 100, Vero Beach, Florida 32960; 772-234-8871. Entire contents copyright © 2026 by Palm Beach Media Group. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. The publisher is not liable for errors or omissions. Periodical postage is paid in Vero Beach, Florida, and additional mailing offices. SUBSCRIPTIONS: One year $28; two years $45; three years $54. Subscribe online at verobeachmagazine.com or call 772-234-8871 weekdays from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa are accepted. Our subscription information is not shared, rented, or sold. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Vero Beach Magazine, 3375 20th St., Suite 100, Vero Beach, FL 32960. SUBMISSIONS: Publisher assumes no liability for the care and return of unsolicited materials, including manuscripts and photographs. Postal authorization #018722. Copyright © 2026 Palm Beach Media Group. Vol. XXIX, No. 4, April 2026

APRIL 2026

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BOOKENDS REVIEW

SURVIVAL STORIES TIFFANY CRUM’S DEBUT NOVEL DEFIES GENRE LABELS BY ELIZABETH LEONARD OF THE VERO BEACH BOOK CENTER

THIS STORY MIGHT SAVE YOUR LIFE by Tiffany Crum Flatiron Books: Pine & Cedar, 2026

enny and Joy are as close as two friends can be. They spend all their free time together, live next door to one another, and share a wicked sense of humor. Many laughs are at the expense of Joy’s narcolepsy and her tendency to fall asleep at any given moment. Over time, they discover that their natural chemistry and gift of gab could be lucrative, and that is how the podcast This Story Might Save Your Life comes to be. Choosing a different life-threatening scenario for each episode, Benny and Joy come up with off-the-wall and creative ways to survive if the unthinkable were to occur. From getting trapped in an attic to being chased by rabid raccoons, the podcast entertains listeners with wild scenarios and witty commentary and becomes a huge nationwide success.

Then Joy and her husband, Xander, go missing, their Southern California home left uncharacteristically disheveled. Since Benny is a close family friend and business partner, the police are homing in on him and asking too many questions. Realizing that he may be the prime suspect in their disappearance, he keeps the discovery of Joy’s laptop to himself. He pores over file after file, looking for subtle hints that she may have left. If anyone can find out what happened to Joy, it’s Benny, and what he discovers changes everything he thought he knew about his best friend and the empire they built together. It’s a mystery, it’s a comedy, it’s a love story, and it’s one of the best debut novels I have ever read. I am looking forward to more from Tiffany Crum.

APRIL PICKS

AMERICAN FANTASY by Emma Straub

THE ENDING WRITES ITSELF by Evelyn Clarke

FOR THE LOVE OF THE GRIND by Sara Hall

THE INSOMNIACS by Allison Winn Scotch

INTIMATE AUDREY: AN AUTHORIZED BIOGRAPHY by Sean Hepburn Ferrer and Wendy Holden

184 VERO BEACH MAGAZINE

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LUXURY WATERFRONT HOMES • CONDOMINIUMS • HOMESITES

772.231.5131 | TheMoorings.com

2105 Windward Way

Windward #C6

Across from beach access, this updated 2 BR/2BA offers vaulted ceilings and is move in ready! $545,000

The Billows #A20

Ocean views are waiting for you! Renovated 2BR/2.5BA features expanded Kitchen, updated Baths and new flooring $1,200,000

2105 Windward Way $5,350,000 Boater’s luxury dream home! Enjoy over 184’ of protected deep water frontage, 98’ Ipe wood dock, 24,000 LB lift, & quick access to the intracoastal! Recent renovations transformed this 5,500+ sq ft home into a modern, luxurious retreat. Seamlessly blending indoor & outdoor living spaces, with privacy enhanced by landscaping & authentic Chickee Tiki huts. Multiple areas for entertaining & enjoying the Florida lifestyle. Spacious updated floor plan with gourmet kitchen, generous room sizes & private en-suite bedrooms. All impact glass sliders & windows! Nothing missed here! Access to Moorings private beach with MPOA membership. Seller is offering Buyer Broker’s compensation.

Spinnaker Point #306-E

Panoramic River views, sunsets and penthouse location. Fully renovated 3BR/2BA, vaulted ceilings, European oak floors, nickel joint detailing + more $1,295,000

Elevate your escape! Discover our luxurious community of waterfront condominiums, villas and estate homes situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. Featuring pristine beaches, river frontage and a variety of residential options. The Moorings Yacht & Country Club brings golf, tennis, fitness and dining close to home, Club membership by invitation.

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We search

high and low

to help you achieve your real estate dream.

Call the Charlotte Terry Group for all of your real estate needs.

CHARLOTTE TERRY h PATTY VALDES h MARIA CALDARONE

2911 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32963 Across from Humiston Park

772.234.8500 h www.charlotteterry.com

Charlotte Terry Group of Alex MacWilliam Real Estate, Inc. Two of Vero Beach’s most trusted names in real estate

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