Treasure Coast FL 2023-24

TREASURE COAST | FL | 2023-24

4 Good Eats 6 Event Calendar 9 Science of Laughter 14 Street Food Delights 18 Community Resources 20 Service Directory

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Restaurants 11 Maple Street Innovative & upscale New American & seafood dishes are served in this quaint, lively setting.

3224 NE Maple Ave, Jensen Beach, FL 34957 Phone: (772) 334-7714 | Web: elevenmaple.com

Jan’s Place Restaurant Sizable servings of breakfast & lunch fare include fresh-baked goods at this simple American diner.

1990 NE Jensen Beach Blvd, Jensen Beach, FL 34957 Phone: (772) 334-6238 | Web: jansplacerestaurant.business.site

French Grill House French rotisserie focuses on meats and fish roasted over woodfire, served with French-style sauces and enjoyed in an open-air courtyard.

427 Northwood Rd, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 Phone: (561) 316-8749 | Web: www.frenchgrillhouse.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

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Crawdaddy’s

Ristorante Claretta

Festive eatery with vibrant decor dishes up traditional Cajun-Creole fare & features live music.

1949 NE Jensen Beach Blvd, Jensen Beach, FL

Family-run Italian place serving traditional fare, including homemade pasta, & wine.

1315 SW Martin Hwy, Palm City, FL

Harry and the Natives

Middle Grounds Grill An illuminated fish tank & nautical murals brighten this seafood grill with a full bar & live music.

10925 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island, FL

Long-standing eatery serving a simple American menu in funky digs with occasional live music.

11910 SE Federal Hwy, Hobe Sound, FL

Gigi’s Italian Restaurant

Lures Bar & Grill

Time-tested, intimate Southern Italian eatery serving classic dishes with a contemporary touch.

1322 NE Jensen Beach Blvd, Jensen Beach, FL

Mellow waterfront bar & grill offering local seafood, an open-air bar & daily happy hours.

3330 NE Indian River Dr, Jensen Beach, FL

Sea Dog Brewing Co.

Pietro’s On the River

Modern joint offering housebrewed beers & updated American bites, plus a bayside patio & boat dock.

9610 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island, FL

Polished seaside spot in the Island Dunes Country Club for American & European cuisine.

8735 S Ocean Dr, Jensen Beach, FL

Waldo’s Restaurant This laid-back landmark with a distinctive, rustic bar serves seaside fare at poolside tables.

3150 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL

The Hoffmanns Traditional German & American fare with wine & beer, & a large outdoor seating area & bar.

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EVENTS Nov 1-12 Stark Stage This Tony Award®-winning musical takes audiences back to December 4, 1956, when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins together in what became one of the most memorable nights in music. Based around that historical event, the musical recounts how these legends ended up in the same room at Sun Records in Memphis for one of the greatest impromptu rock ‘n’ roll jam sessions in history. More details at www.riversidetheatre.com.

NOV 4 Treasure Coast Brew Fest 2023 The Treasure Coast Brew Fest, the Treasure Coast’s largest and longestrunning beer festival, is held each year in early November. In years past, attendees have had the opportunity to sample over 200 brews from over 50 different breweries. In addition to craft beer tasting, guests can sip wine, dine al fresco food truck style, enjoy live music and play games. Our brew fest is family-friendly, and all of our guests who aren’t sampling beer can attend for free. Learn more at tcbrewfest.com.

NOV 10 Stuart Air Show Featuring thrilling performances by nationally known performers as well as interesting and historical static displays of aircrafts, vehicles and so much more, it’s sure to be a Veterans Day weekend to remember! Learn more at stuartairshow.com.

DEC 1 2023 Winterfest Seas and Greetings Formally known as Festival of Trees and considered Vero Beach’s premier holiday event, this festival transforms Riverside’s campus into a holiday wonderland filled with beautifully decorated trees, centerpieces, wreaths, vendor booths, arts and crafts, live performances, Santa’s Village, and even an “ice” skating rink! Learn more at riversidetheatre.com.

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EVENTS Jan 2-28 2024 Jersey Boys Music by Bob Gaudio, Lyrics by Bob Crewe, Book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice - Based on the songs by The Four Seasons Who knew four guys from New Jersey would turn the world upside down?

With an unique sound that nobody had heard, but the radio couldn’t get enough of, Jersey Boys is the Tony Award®- winning true-life musical of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. While their harmonies were perfect on stage, their offstage relationships were a different story. More details at www.riversidetheatre.com.

JAN 12 50th Annual Stuart Boat Show 2024 The 50th Annual Stuart Boat Show is the largest boat show on Florida’s Treasure Coast, featuring over 205 local, national, and international exhibitors displaying hundreds of boats in water and on land. Plenty of music, delicious food, and drinks add to the festivities. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

JAN 18 33rd Annual Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival Famous mouth-watering frog leg and gator tail dinners. Hundreds of booths for unique gifts. Great local music and fun rides. Come discover why this festival is a January tradition for so many. Learn more at froglegfestival.com.

Jan 30 - Feb 18 2024 Morning After Grace After connecting at a funeral, Abigail and Angus find themselves waking up the next morning with more questions and revelations than they each expected. Enter Ollie, a neighbor and former baseball player, who brings insight into Angus’ deceased wife. With comical revelations, this unlikely trio tackle love, loss and coming to terms with growing old. Set in a

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The The Science Science of of Laughter: Laughter: Why Why We We Love Love to to Chuckle Chuckle

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much?

In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool.

Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In You’ve probably experienced

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the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

This contagious nature of laughter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being: Stress Reduction: Laughter reduces the production of stress hormones like

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bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

The Laughter Perscription: Make Time for Chuckles Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with people who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health benefits.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost.

Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

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EVENTS Florida retirement community, this heart-warming and often hilarious new comedy takes us on an unexpected journey toward a new lease on life. To learn more, visit www.riversidetheatre.com.

FEB 2 2024 Treasure Coast Ribs Wings and Rock Festival The 5th Annual Treasure Coast Ribs Wings and Music Festival is coming to Vero Beach. Attendees can expect a variety of musical acts performing on two stages throughout the weekend. From classic rock to modern hits, there’s something for everyone. In addition to great music, there will also be delicious food available from local vendors like BBQ ribs and wings.

Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Feb 20 - Mar 17 2024 Kinky Boots When Charlie Price inherits his father’s shoe factory, he’s faced with a dilemma - file for bankruptcy or find a way to save the family business.

Charlie finds inspiration in Lola, a fabulous female impersonator, who is in need of some sturdy boots. As Charlie and Lola work to save the business, they find they are not so different after all. With dedication and fortitude, Lola conquers Milan with their new line of boots. And with success assured, Charlie finally realizes his love for Lauren, the factory’s forewoman. Learn more at www.riversidetheatre.com.

FEB 23 St. Lucie County Fair St. Lucie County Fair is a family-friendly event that offers lots of fun and entertainment for everyone. The event features livestock, contests, carnival rides, arts & crafts, rodeo, games, food, and more. Learn more at stluciecountyfair.org.

MAR 6 Marathon of the Treasure Coast The Marathon of the Treasure Coast is a high-profile signature event on

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Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions: 1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~ Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise, continued on page 16

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EVENTS the Treasure Coast of Florida. It is designed for runners, walkers and music enthusiasts, to be a competitive full and half marathon, team marathon relay and extended challenge event with a small prize purse for the avid endurance athlete. Of equal importance, it is designed to showcase the incredible lifestyle and culture of the local community here on the Treasure Coast. Learn more at raceentry.com.

Mar 19 - Apr 7 2024 Yankee Tavern Yankee Tavern is a crumbling New York City bar. It is the place where people come to drink, connect and share stories that are only told in those places. One day, Adam, the young owner, and Janet, his fiancé, become embroiled in a conspiracy theory of personal and national significance when a stranger enters the bar and seems to know more than he should about the September 11 th terrorist attacks. Yankee Tavern is a thriller laced with introspection and comedy. Learn more at www.riversidetheatre.com.

MAR 23 4th Annual Strawberry Fest Family fun & festivities, attendees can look forward to a delightful day filled with an abundance of family-friendly activities. The finest strawberries along with an array of art and crafts, mouthwatering cuisine, and free attractions like bounce houses, face painting, and petting farms, will make this event memorable. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, unique contests such as axe throwing and pie-eating, and free treats like strawberry shortcake and rock painting, ensuring a day of fun for all ages.

Learn more at portstluciefest.com.

Apr 9 - May 5 2024 On Your Feet Based on the lives and music of 26-time Grammy Award-winning husband-and-wife team, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, On Your Feet is a high-energy celebration of the songs that got the world dancing to the rhythm. From humble beginnings in Cuba and exile in Miami, Emilio and Gloria’s passion for music helped them overcome overwhelming odds and continued on page 19

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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience.

Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

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7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

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PRIDE ALLIANCE OF THE TREASURE COAST Pride Alliance of the Treasure Coast Inc.’s mission is to promote unity within the Treasure Coast by providing activities, resources, and information to the LGBTQ+ community. PRIDEALLIANCEETC.COM | 772.380.3534 THE SANCTUARY OF THE TREASURE COAST Our Mission is to provide a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment to inspire LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies to be themselves, to share with new friends, and to engage in activities which promote and unite our community.

SANCTUARYOFTREASURECOAST.ORG MIDWAY SPECIALTY CARE CENTER The mission of Midway Specialty Care Center, as a not-for-profit clinic, is to provide our patients a comprehensive infectious disease care center, with primary care, and access to behavioral health services, gynecological care and nutritional support.

MIDWAYCARE.ORG CENTERLINK CenterLink is an international nonprofit organization and member-based association of LGBTQ centers and other LGBTQ organizations serving their local and regional communities. Our mission is to strengthen, support, and connect LGBTQ community centers. LGBTCENTERS.ORG TC BOWLING CLUB With this initiative, our goal is to promote great opportunities for those in need. With access to the right resources, people can become empowered by their own abilities and gain the confidence to fulfill their potential.

TCBOWLINGCLUB.COM | 772.380.3533 PFLAG STUART We are a Support Group for Parents, Families, Friends and Allies of the LGBTQ+ community Serving the Treasure Coast. PFLAGSTUARTFL.ORG

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EVENTS personal tragedies. With an estimated 100 million albums sold worldwide, Gloria Estefan is among the most successful crossover artists ever and On Your Feet showcases over 20 of her biggest hits including: “Conga,” “1-2-3,” “Anything for You,” and “Get on Your Feet”. Learn more at www. riversidetheatre.com.

APR 11 Vero Beach Film Festival Welcome back for another weekend of Films, Food, and Fine Wines as the Vero Beach Film Festival celebrates our Seventh Festival on April 11 – 14, 2024, pairing independent filmmakers and audiences seeking new voices and fresh perspectives. Meet the artists behind the screen, enjoy a vintner dinner, and explore Vero Beach, our hidden gem, “Where The Tropics Begin,” along Florida’s eastern coast. Learn more at vbfilmfest.org.

MAY 4 Treasure Coast Seafood Festival - Vero Beach At the festival, get ready for the ultimate seafood feast! Sample the best that the Treasure Coast has to offer along with new dishes and flavors that are always debuting at the festival – the perfect excuse to come back again and again. But the festival isn’t all about seafood. From local artisans selling one-of-a-kind crafts to nautical vendors offering unique wares and services, there’s something for everyone. Guests can also immerse themselves in the local culture with live music, a kid’s zone, and plenty of attractions for the whole family. Learn more at treasurecoastseafoodfest.com.

JUL 4 Annual July 4th Celebrations Join the City of Stuart for our annual fireworks show downtown at Flagler Park every July 4th. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Bring the whole family for a firework show, food trucks, live music and more! Visit cityofstuart.us.

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ART MUSEUM Vero Beach Museum of Art....................................................................7 ENTERTAINMENT Riverside Theatre.....................................................................................1 ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEY Lawn & LeBlanc, PLLC...........................................................................2 FAMILY CLUB YMCA of the Treasure Coast.................................................................2 PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICES Custom Cleaning of the Treasure Coast Inc........................................ 13 REALTOR Albert ‘AI’ Alvarez - Re/Max................................................................. 13 THEATER Riverside Theatre.....................................................................................1 VETERINARY HEALTH Pet Emergency & Referral Center........................................................ 13 WEALTH ADVISOR The O’Haire Group................................................................................3

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