www.seabreezepublications.com
Education Foundation Of Martin County Announces Teacher Of The Year Award Winners
Tonight, the Education Foundation of Martin County announced its Teacher of the Year winners during a special celebration at the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center. Vanessa Molina-Council of Citrus Grove Elementary School took top honors and was named the 2024-2025 Martin County Teacher of the Year. She will go on to represent Martin County in the state competition to become the Florida Department of Education’s Teacher of the Year. Devin Carlson, partner and general manager of Audi Stuart, Infiniti Stuart and Alfa Romeo Stuart, the event sponsor, presented Molina-Council with the award.
The Education Foundation also recognized Alicia Carter of Hidden Oaks, who won the middle school category, and Samantha Pankhurst of Jensen Beach High, the high school category winner. There were a total of 23 nominees competing for the top spots.
In addition, Felix A. Williams Elementary School won the Spirit Award, which was based on its theme, costumes, props and enthusiasm.
Molina-Council’s students inspire her to be a classroom teacher. She grew up in lowincome housing with non-English speaking parents and a sibling who had a disability. They both attended inner city public schools in rough neighborhoods, but her teachers made them feel valued and respected and provided their parents with guidance and resources. This experience inspired her to pursue the teaching profession.
Education Foundation on page 3
Hanley Foundation And Mark Garwood Foundation Raise $120,000 For Education Scholarships At Eighth Annual Shoot For The Moon
The Hanley Foundation and the Mark Garwood Foundation raised $120,000 during the Eighth Annual Shoot for the Moon on Friday, November 1, at the South Florida Shooting Club in Palm City. This year’s event marked a milestone as the Hanley Foundation officially partnered with the Mark Garwood Foundation to continue to provide education scholarships for individuals in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD).
After a warm welcome from the Garwood family and a safety briefing, more than 188 shooters took the field for the friendly competition. Participants and guests enjoyed
Erica Garwood, State Rep. John Snyder, John Garwood
United Way Of Martin County Celebrates Community Leaders
United Way of Martin County kicked off its annual campaign with the Community Leaders’ Celebration luncheon at Sailfish Point Country Club on October 28.
Nearly 200 people from this fine community came together to honor and celebrate their outstanding achievements from the past year while looking towards an even brighter future. At the luncheon, United Way thanked the many generous organizations and dedicated individuals who raise millions of dollars every year to ensure that Martin County residents are able to provide basic needs for themselves and their families.
The Live United Award was presented to Zweben Law Group for their decade-long commitment to supporting United Way through their annual Bike Drive. (Tara and Gene Zweben, Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, Derek Lowe)
Derek Lowe, coordinator of Public Information and Community Relations for the Martin County School District, served as event emcee.
“I understand that this year has not been an easy one, especially after the destruction caused by Hurricane Milton,” Lowe pointed out. “Which is why I wanted to thank United
United Way on page 8
Felix A. Williams Elementary won the School Spirit Award, sponsored by the Education Foundation of Martin County. (Photo by Paul Careccia)
Shoot For The Moon on page 4
“What inspires me today is to see the same joy of learning in my classroom and the motivation in my students to reach their fullest potential,” said Molina-Council. “My students make me feel like I am where I am meant to be, especially when I see those light bulbs go off!”
Her principal, Rose Rynca, said, “Vanessa exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educator in every aspect of her teaching role. She consistently develops her instructional craft and is steadfast in her belief that all students will achieve. Her ability to inspire students’ curiosity, while integrating innovative teaching methods, is truly commendable.”
Carter has worked as an intervention reading teacher as well as a creative writing and digital media teacher, and a physical education and volunteer running coach.
One of her fellow teachers, Natalie Walters, stated in her letter of recommendation, “I have worked with Alicia for two years at Hidden Oaks Middle School, and I can attest to the fact that she is a superhuman, dedicated teacher
Writing and Digital Media teacher at Hidden Oaks Middle School; and Christopher Forte, Hidden Oaks Middle School principal (Photo by Paul Careccia)
and colleague, and she is driven and conscientious. Look no further; because you will not find a more suitable candidate for Martin County Teacher of the Year than Alicia Carter!”
Overall and elementary school winner Vanessa Molina-Council accepts the keys to her brand-new Alfa Romeo Stelvio from Devin Carlson, general manager and partner at Murgado Automotive Group Stuart, event sponsor. (Photo by Lisa Rhodes)
Pankhurst has taught almost every social studies course at Jensen Beach High School. Currently a teacher of advance placement human geography and United States history, her principal, Lori Vogel, noted how Pankhurst encourages her students to think beyond books to solve problems and become leaders.
“The students in her classes benefit from her details to planning as they are prepared for the rigor of college or real-world careers,” said Vogel. “She is always willing to go the extra mile to help other teachers develop lessons that are engaging for their students, and to help our students to ensure they meet requirements necessary for graduation.”
In addition to Audi Stuart, Infiniti Stuart, and Alfa Romeo Stuart as the presenting sponsor, the additional top sponsors were Keiser University, Publix Super Markets Charities and Cook Shell Contractors.
Martin County Elementary School Teacher of the Year sponsored by Cook Shell Contractors – The Honorable Gayle Harrell, EFMC board member and Vanessa Molina-Council, Fourth Grade Citrus Grove Elementary teacher and overall and elementary school winner (Photo by Paul Careccia)
The Education Foundation of Martin County is the Martin County School District’s strategic nonprofit partner with the mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County’s public schools. As an independent group, the foundation promotes this effort by raising and distributing private and corporate funds through several established programs, including classroom enrichment grants, literacy programs, professional development for teachers, special initiatives, scholarships and programs to recognize outstanding teaching. For more information, please visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org.
Gina Prochilo, Josh Muir and Devin Carlson, General Manager and Partner of Murgado Automotive Group Stuart (Photo by Doreen Poreba)
Dr. David L. Anderson Middle School nominee Ashley Kemler and Christopher Gomez (Photo by Doreen Poreba)
Treasure Coast Classical Academy teacher nominee William Price and Mary Beth Price of Treasure Coast Classical Academy (Photo by Doreen Poreba)
Superintendent Michael Maine; Dr. Tracy Record, Keiser University Department chair for Legal Studies; High School winner Samantha Pankhurst, Social Studies teacher at Jensen Beach High School; and Lori Vogel, Jensen Beach High School Principal (Photo by Paul Careccia)
Martin County Middle School Teacher of the Year sponsored by Publix Super Markets Charities – Superintendent Michael Maine; Dr. Jennifer DiTrapani, EFMC board member; Middle school winner Alicia Carter, Physical Education, Creative
Michael Recinos, Celine Salgado, Anne-Marie Shultz and Christina Saltos with iThink Financial Credit Union (Photo by Doreen Poreba)
Julie Spircoff and Jill Burton of Sandhill Cove Retirement Living (Photo by Doreen Poreba)
Operated by Stuart Main Street
Searching For “Hard To Find” Ancestors With The Martin County Genealogical Society
Searching for ancestors can be daunting, especially if they were adopted or parents of children born out of wedlock. At the Martin County Genealogical Society’s (MCGS) January 2025 meeting, author and genealogist Nathan Dylan Goodwin will present “Finding Henry,” his three-year search to identify the biological father of an illegitimate child whose birth resulted from an ancestor’s wartime romance. Nathan will discuss each step of this complex process, which included sifting through official documents and revealing long-hidden family secrets. He
For The
a barbecue lunch prepared by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office Grill Team, a live auction, and an awards ceremony for individual and team winners. Nine new recipients were awarded Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarships for the 2025 academic cycle at the luncheon.
Since its inception in 2015, 76 Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarships have been awarded and more than $540,000 in financial aid provided to individuals who are actively in recovery, committed to long-term sobriety, and ready to begin or continue their education. More than 90 percent of recipients successfully maintain long-term sobriety while participating in the scholarship program.
For the fifth consecutive year, the Murgado Automotive Group of Stuart (Audi, Infiniti, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo) generously supported the event as presenting sponsor.
Photos courtesy of Tracey Benson Photography.
About Hanley Foundation
Hanley Foundation envisions a world free of addiction. Through its four mission areas of prevention, advocacy, treatment, and recovery support, Hanley provides evidence-based holistic addiction treatment, recovery scholarships to those in need, and youth prevention programming, while reducing stigma and informing policy. For more information, visit hanleyfoundation.org or call (855) 741-4673.
About Mark Garwood Foundation
The Mark Garwood Foundation is a 501(c)(3) corporation, chartered in October 2014 by Erica and John Garwood. During his life, Mark always felt it was vital to be a source of encouragement and strength to any of his friends and acquaintances who were struggling. The Foundation is dedicated to building a legacy of service and support for the recovery community in memory of Mark by providing hope, changing lives, and building futures for individuals in Florida who are battling the devastating effects of substance use disorder. The initiatives and resources of the Mark Garwood Foundation are specifically targeted toward the promotion and support of substance abuse recovery efforts in the St. Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach, and Broward counties in South Florida.
Club News
will explain the range of genealogical methods, archives and services he used, including DNA testing, which assisted and ultimately confirmed his discoveries.
An English writer, genealogist and educator, Nathan has a degree in radio, film and television studies and a master’s in creative writing from Canterbury Christ Church University. He is a member of the Society of Authors, the Society of Genealogists and several history groups. He has written several history books about Hastings, England, his birthplace and childhood home, as well as several works of fiction, including the acclaimed genealogy crime mystery series, the Forensic Genealogist and Venator Cold Case series, and the Mrs. McDougall Investigates series.
Free and open to the public, the meeting is in the John F. and Rita M. Armstrong Wing at the Blake Library,
2351 S.E. Monterey Road from 1 to 3 p.m., Friday, Jan. 17. The meeting begins with a social time followed by a brief business meeting. The presentation, broadcast via Zoom, is at 2 p.m. To attend on Zoom, register at mcgsfl. org/events.
The Martin County Genealogical Society offers a variety of services at the Genealogy Room in the Blake Library including an extensive research library, access to several genealogy websites and assistance from MCGS volunteers. For more information about membership, activities and services go to mcgsfl.org.
Shoot
Moon from page 1
Chip James, Rachel Docekal Sheriff William Snyder
Erica Garwood, Stuart City Commissioner Eula Clarke, Rachel Docekal
Indiantown Village Manager Taryn Kryzda, Mayor Carmine Dipaolo
Steve Campana, Josh Scott, Graham Gallagher
Judge Donald W. Hafele and State Rep. Toby Overdorf
Steve DeLalio, Turner Benoit, Whitney Miller Douglas, Cory Hanlons
John Bowers, Peyton Brown, Elizabeth Stoops, Andrew Stoops
Presenting Sponsor Murgado Automotive Group
Presenting Sponsor Devin Carlson with Murgado Automotive Group
Martin County Sheriff’s Office
Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarship Recipients
FiNaNCial FoCus®
Consider Tax-Smart Charitable Gifts
By Sally Sima Stahl
As we enter the annual season of giving, you might be thinking of charities you wish to support. But you also might be wondering how to gain some tax benefits from your gifts.
It used to be pretty straightforward: You wrote a check to a charity and then deducted the amount of the gift, within limits, from your taxes. But a few years ago, as part of tax law changes, the standard deduction was raised significantly, so fewer people were able to itemize deductions. Consequently, there was less financial incentive to make charitable gifts.
Of course, this didn’t entirely stop people from making them. And it’s still possible to gain some tax advantages, too. Here are a few tax-smart charitable giving strategies:
• Bunch your charitable gifts into one year . If you combine a few years’ worth of charitable gifts in a single year, you could surpass the standard deduction amount and then itemize deductions for that year. In the years following, you could revert to taking the standard deduction.
• Make qualified charitable distributions. Once you turn 73 (or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later), you must start taking withdrawals from your traditional or inherited IRA. These withdrawals—technically called required minimum distributions, or RMDs—are taxable at your personal income tax rate, so, if the amounts are large enough, they could push you into a higher tax bracket or cause you to pay larger Medicare premiums.
But if you donate these RMDs directly to a qualified charity, you can avoid the taxes. And because these donations, known as qualified charitable distributions
(QCDs), will reduce the balance on your IRA, you may have lower RMDs in the future.
Of course, if you need some or all your RMDs to help sustain yourself in retirement, the use of QCDs may not be of interest to you. Keep in mind, though, that you can start making QCDs at 70½, even before you must start taking RMDs. QCDs up to $105,000 can be taken in 2024.
• Consider a donor-advised fund. If you’re interested in a long-term charitable giving arrangement, you might want to consider establishing a donor-advised fund. You can put many types of assets into this fund, and then direct it to make grants periodically to the charities you’ve chosen. You get an immediate tax deduction for your contribution, and, if you donate appreciated assets, such as stocks, you’ll avoid the capital gains taxes you would have incurred if you simply sold the stocks and then gave the money to the charities. One note of caution, though—your contributions to a donor-advised fund are irrevocable, and once the assets are in the fund, you can’t use them for anything except charitable giving.
These strategies—QCDs and donor-advised funds in particular—can be complex and involve several issues of which you should be aware. So, you should consult
your tax advisor before taking action. But if any of these techniques are appropriate for your situation, give them some thought—because helping a charitable group and getting tax benefits for doing so is a “win” for everyone.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Edward Jones, Member SIPC.
Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P., and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax advice. You should consult your qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
Contact us at (561) 748-7600, Sally Sima Stahl, CFP®, AAMS™, 1851 W. Indiantown Road, Ste. 106, Jupiter, FL 33458.
ClevelaNd CliNiC
MartiN HealtH News
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health Expands Cancer Services
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health’s ongoing mission is to provide the most advanced cancer care available to the Treasure Coast community. That care is even more accessible as the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center at Martin Health adds caregivers and expands its services.
Mel Lizaso, M.D., is one of three radiation oncology physicians at the cancer center. Also included on the staff are radiation therapists, physicists, dosimetrists, and nurse practitioners.
“We dedicate ourselves to providing evidence-based care that is individualized to the patient,” says Dr. Lizaso. “Our treatment plans are based on cutting edge science and compassion.”
The radiation oncology department uses leading edge technologies to offer the latest in radiation therapy, including stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR or SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). SABR/ SBRT and SRS are radiation techniques that use stateof-the-art equipment to deliver highly focused high-
dose radiation. The precision with which the radiation is delivered allows for the treatment of tumors without overexposure to nearby healthy tissue. Because of the higher dosages, patients need fewer treatments –between one and five, compared to traditional 25 to 35 – and experience fewer side effects.
The Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center offers SRS for brain and SABR/SBRT for lung, bone, and other sites of cancer.
“In the appropriately selected patient, stereotactic radiation therapy can diminish the treatment time, thereby removing the time toxicity of cancer care and improving quality of life,” says Lizaso.
A variety of radiation oncology services are available in Port St. Lucie and Stuart. New and state-of-the-art equipment allow the physicians to use such techniques as surface guidance, 4-D CT scanning, and hypofractionated therapy for more precise targeting of tumors that spares the surrounding tissues while sometimes decreasing the number of treatments required.
The radiation oncology team at Martin Health provides exceptional patient-centered cancer care. Patients are provided with a thorough overview of treatment options and informed with recommendations while being guided through every step of treatment.
“We take into account the whole patient when designing our treatment plans,” says Lizaso. “It is individualized and considers the goals and best interests of each patient.”
To make an appointment with Dr. Lizaso or another specialist at Cleveland Clinic Martin Health, call (877) 463-2010 or visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Cancer to learn more.
Mel Lizaso, M.D.
In Your CommunIt Y
House Of Hope Tournament Serves Up Howling Good Time
Creative costumes, spooktacular drinks, and hauntingly fun games made the 2024 Serve Some Hope Tennis & Pickleball Charity Tournament a howling success for House of Hope.
Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Doubles teams in both tennis and pickleball took to the courts for the entire November 1 to 3 weekend. In fast-paced play, 155 participants battled for bragging rights on the Harbour Ridge Lakeside Center courts while raising more than $26,600 in donations. “The competition was friendly but fierce,” said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “We’re grateful to the players and to Harbour Ridge for their efforts to raise funds that will go directly into helping our friends and neighbors in need.”
House of Hope reaches more than 26,000 people each month, empowering them to overcome hunger and hardship. Last year alone, House of Hope distributed nearly 1.2 million pounds of food, including more than 500,000 pounds of fresh produce; allocated more than $102,600 in financial assistance; supported 30 area nonprofits with food and clothes closet items; and helped 8,000 individuals directly through its basic needs, enrichment, workforce development, financial assistance and nutrition education programs.
Tournament sponsors include Lichtenberger Family Charitable Fund at The Community Foundation MartinSt. Lucie, Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, Treasure Coast Legal, HBKS Wealth Advisors, FPL, Alan B. Miller Medical Center, Brigite and John Babine, Performance Health & Chiropractic Inc., Sue Whittington – Travel Advisor at Jill Venturi & Associates, Diadem Sports, Life Chiropractic Center, Maureen Holley, DMD, and South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine.
“A successful tournament depends on the work of a lot of people. We want to give a special shout-out to everyone
Harbour Ridge tennis pro Simone Vasconcellos and Director of Racquet Sports at Harbour Ridge Fabio Vaconcellos flank Sylvie Quenneville, Luisa Subia, Christina Acevedo, and Judy Zanchi at the 2024 House of Hope Serving Up Hope tournament. Christina and Luisa were winners of the Women’s 4.0 division and Judy and Sylvie were runners-up. at Harbour Ridge for giving us access to their beautiful location,” Ranieri.
A full recap of the winners in both the Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Doubles Divisions for Tennis and Pickleball is available on the House of Hope website, hohmartin.org/ servehope, and a photo album of the event has been posted on facebook.com/Hohmartin/photos_albums.
Darla Cederberg and Gloretta Hall joined Rob Ranieri, House of Hope CEO, in the fun-filled Halloween costume contest that was part of this year’s Serving Hope Tennis and Pickleball Tournament. The costume contest added so much laughter to the fierce competition that the tournament will be held on Halloween weekend in 2025.
“We congratulate all the participants,” Ranieri said, “not only for their skill and determination on the courts but also for giving their tremendous energy to helping the people we serve.”
To learn more about House of Hope or to make a donation, visit House of Hope’s website at www.hohmartin. org or call (772) 286-4673. Updates and announcements can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Way of Martin County for always being there when we need them most, not only by providing resources and assistance through disaster relief programs, but most importantly, by being the guiding light to residents who may otherwise feel lost. With the generosity of those working and volunteering at United Way, our beloved family and friends can remain hopeful that they will get back on their feet every time.”
During the luncheon, United Way announced Martin County’s Top 10 Most Generous Workplaces and Communities that make our community investment possible.
Top 10 Workplaces 1. Publix 2. Seacoast Bank 3. FPL
6. Cleveland Clinic 7. Raymond James
City of Stuart
Since United Way’s inception of honoring our Top 10 Most Generous Workplaces and Communities, Sailfish Point continues to
as the most generous community in
County.
Sailfish Point
Harbour Ridge
Willoughby
Sewall’s Point 5. Piper’s Landing 6. Jupiter Hills
7. Mariner Sands 8. Sandhill Cove 9. Loblolly 10. Jupiter Island
These are the Top 10 of the nearly 200 companies and communities whose employees and residents gave philanthropic contributions to United Way of Martin County during the previous campaign year. Since United Way’s inception of honoring its Top 10 Most Generous Workplaces and Communities, Publix Super Markets and Sailfish Point continue to reign as the most generous workplace and community in Martin County.
The following awards were presented to organizations and individuals that went above and beyond to support United Way of Martin County’s efforts by donating their time, talent and treasure.
• The Hand Raiser Award was presented to Wilmington Trust for always raising their hands to help when United Way is in need.
• The Collaborator of the Year Award was presented to Cleveland Clinic for partnering strategically with United Way on specific, critical initiatives.
• The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Kenny Marks for being a staple volunteer in our community.
• The Live United Award was presented to Zweben Law Group for their decade-long commitment to supporting United Way through their annual Bike Drive.
• The Unsung Hero Award was presented to Amy Bottegal for her significant behind-the-scenes impact on our community.
United Way also would not be able to uphold its mission without the support of its incredible sponsors. Their unwavering commitment is the driving force behind our ability to honor the true game-changers in our community:
• Publix
• Comcast
• Betsy Herold
• FPL
• Seacoast Bank
• Pratt & Whitney
• Arati Hammond
• C&W Technologies
• FoxHaven Roofing Group
• HBK CPAs & Consultants – HBKS Wealth Advisors
• Keane Thomas & Pinnacoli
• Sandhill Cove
• SouthState
• STS Aviation Group
The goal of United Way is to increase self-sufficiency for every person in Martin County through resources and programs that promote health, education and financial security. This year, United Way invested over $1.9 million in local programs to help Martin County families get solid financial ground, students succeed in school, and seniors and veterans break transportation barriers, among other critical programs.
For more information about United Way of Martin County, visit UnitedWayMartin.org.
reign
Martin
(Left to right: Kathryn (Muffin) Adamiak, Dennis Longstreet, Noreen Fisher, John Adamiak, Betsy Herold)
The Unsung Hero Award was presented to Amy Bottegal for her significant behind-the-scenes impact on our community. (Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, Amy Bottegal, Derek Lowe)
The Collaborator of the Year Award was presented to Cleveland Clinic for partnering strategically with United Way on specific, critical initiatives. (Stephanie Quirantes, Alex Greenwood, Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, Derek Lowe)
Number 2 Most Generous Workplace Award presented to Seacoast Bank. (Robert Barfield, Jenny Yingling, Sarah Lynch, Chuck Shaffer, Denise Anderson, Lisa Vasquez, Jared Gaylord, Leslie Warren)
Event Emcee Derek Lowe, coordinator of Public Information and Community Relations for the Martin County School District.
Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, United Way of Martin County president and CEO with Elliot Paul, United Way of Martin County board chair.
Sailfish Point homemade and custom decorated United Way cookie dessert platter.
Photos by Liz Mckinley
Since United Way’s inception of honoring our Top 10 Most Generous Workplaces and Communities, Publix Super Markets continues to reign as the most generous workplace in Martin County. (Left to right: Blake Davis and Dipal Mehta)
’Twas The Bite Before Christmas
By Nils A. Shapiro
When I was trying to decide on an appropriate book to review for this December column, several features on the cover of this month’s selection attracted me: the obvious connection to the Christmas holiday, the cute twist of the “Bite” for “Night” in the title and the adorable Dalmatian with the Gingerbread Man cookie in his mouth—an irresistible draw for the doggie lover I am.
What I did not realize until I arrived home, opened the book, noted the author’s credentials and began reading this novel is that I had struck literary gold in my selection! Within the first few pages I understood why David Rosenfelt has developed a massive fan base of readers for his more than 40 already published novels , over half of them about Andy Carpenter, the same attorney who stars in ’Twas The Bite Before Christmas
In this novel, Carpenter is serving as defense attorney for a friend and excellent neighbor who, shockingly, has been arrested and charged with the murder of a high-ranking mobster. It turns out that his friend, to the surprise of Carpenter and everyone else in town, has
book review
been living among them as part of the government’s witness protection program after having earlier been a part of the mob but who “turned” and gave evidence at great personal risk.
With his friend and client declaring himself to be completely innocent of the new charges, Carpenter must get to the truth about the “evidence” and find the real killer. (He also takes on the responsibility of caring for his friend/client’s two dogs while he is in prison.) This won’t be an easy case: The victim was found dead in the trunk of his client’s car, and his bloodstains on the client’s clothing. It’s a well-told tale with a surprising, satisfying and credible ending.
What makes this book special is Rosenfelt’s writing style. But there are so many reasons to love this author it is difficult to know where to begin. Most importantly, his tongue-in-cheek humor will keep a grin on your face from first page to last. I kept thinking that he would make a great writer for the Saturday Night Live TV show.
Here, for example, are just a couple of examples early on when Andy Carpenter is describing how he feels about certain aspects of his family life. (I have omitted large sections of the text for lack of space here and substituted ellipses. …)
“I don’t like eggnog, and I don’t think anybody does. It’s too thick and too sweet for my taste … like drinking melted chewing gum. I just tried some again anyway and found that sucking some of this batch through a straw requires either a serious pair of lungs or a hydraulic pump; it’s not nearly good enough to justify that amount of work.
“But the reason I doubt that anyone really likes it is that it’s only popular at Christmas. Good food or drink should not require a holiday to justify consumption … I feel the same way about fruitcakes and candied yams; if you like them, eat them all year. Otherwise, I don’t want to hear about them.”
Or this passage about his son, Ricky.
“Ricky is watching a soccer game.
“He likes soccer.
“I’ve known this for a while, but it’s still jarring. I’m a good parent, so as much as I hate soccer and hate even more that he likes it, I’m not about to say anything or be critical. He has to live his own life and make his own choices, even a ridiculous one like this.
“What are you watching, Rick?”
“It’s a Premier League game. Liverpool is playing Chelsea.”
“They’re five hours ahead there. Are they playing at midnight?”
“I taped it.”
“You taped an English soccer game? Voluntarily?”
“Yup.” …
“Does it bother you that they score about once every couple of months?
“Nope.”
… “I watch along with him for a minute or so, pretending to be interested, then I leave. I could watch until someone scores, but by then Bobby’s trial might have started. …
“I can’t sugarcoat this or enter a state of denial … the simple fact is that I have a son who prefers soccer to good old American college football.
“I am raising a Communist.”
As if David Rosenfelt’s delightful writing style weren’t enough to have me join his vast base of admiring readers, how about the following: He and his wife live in Maine with 25 of the 4,000 dogs they have rescued. Do I need to say more?
On a doggie note, my wife Linda and I will be sharing our first holiday season with Lacey, who joined our family three months ago. Lacey, a “teacup” Maltese who weighs just 3-1/2 pounds, will celebrate her first birthday on December 20, and is already completely bonded with my wife Linda, as you can see here.
Bring Joy Home: Humane Society Seeks Families To Foster Shelter Pets During The Holidays
Most people do not want to spend the holidays alone and the shelter animals at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) are no different. That’s why the HSTC is reaching out to caring individuals and families to participate in its annual “Home for the Holidays” program. Sponsored by Wilmington Trust, the goal is for all its shelter pets to be fostered starting December 5, and continuing through January 3, 2025, when the animals must either be returned or adopted.
Pet pickups must be done during the following business hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Good works
and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The HSTC’s main campus is 4100 S.W. Leighton Farm Ave., Palm City. The HSTC’s two Stuart thrift stores, 3302 S.E. Federal Highway and 1099 N.W. 21st St., will also have cats available to be fostered. To view the available pets, go online to www.hstc1.org/Adopt.
“This special program gives our shelter pets a chance to spend the holidays out of the shelter kennels and in warm and loving homes,” said HSTC Communications Manager Sarah Fisher. “Ultimately, we hope this seasonal fostering program will help find permanent homes for our shelter pets. This is a great opportunity for a ‘test run’ with your family and other pets to see if you can provide a forever home for your foster.”
Fisher also encourages participants to introduce their fosters to their friends, family, and neighbors to help facilitate an adoption.
For those who choose to adopt the pet they foster, adoption fees for dogs and cats over 1 year old will be
waived, thanks to the generosity of Wilmington Trust. For all others, the adoption fees are $175 for dogs under 1 year old; $75 for cats under 1 year old; $25 for rabbits; and $10 for Guinea pigs and other critters.
The HSTC prefers that participants provide food bowls, bedding and toys for their foster pet but the shelter will assist if needed. Any pets not adopted by their fosters or otherwise finding a forever home during the program will need to be returned to the shelter by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025.
For more information, email customerservice@hstc1. org, call (772) 223-8822, or visit https://hstc1.org/Homefor-the-Holidays.
Follow the HSTC on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/humanesocietyTC and Twitter at https:// www.twitter.com/hstc1. For more information, visit https://www.hstc1.org or call (772) 223-8822.
caring individuals to foster one of its pets, like these, as part of its “Home for the Holidays” program.
Photos by Sarah Fisher
Award-Winning Orthopedic care
Jupiter Medical Center is proud to be recognized by Healthgrades® as one of America’s 100 Best Joint Replacement Programs. This distinction, along with a five-star rating for total knee and total hip replacement and outpatient joint replacement accolades, distinguishes Jupiter Medical Center as one of the nation’s leading hospitals for orthopedic care.
The medical experts at The Anderson Family Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence at Jupiter Medical Center are at the forefront of joint replacement and spine care. The team ensures seamless care from diagnosis to rehabilitation by utilizing leading-edge technology to perform innovative procedures in a state-of-the-art center.
You deserve the nation’s best orthopedic care. Visit jupitermed.com/ortho to learn more.
The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is reaching out to
taMpa GeNeral News
TGH Pulmonologist Uses New Technology To Diagnose And Treat Early-Stage Lung Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. among both men and women. Often asymptomatic, it can go undiagnosed for an extended period. When symptoms do appear, it’s usually because the cancer has spread, and there’s less chance for survival, which makes early screenings critical to diagnosing and treating the disease. Who should be screened for lung cancer? The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends yearly lung cancer screening for people who:
• Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history
• Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years
• Are between 50 and 80 years old
Dr. Adam Wellikoff, a Palm Beach County-based pulmonologist with Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Pulmonary Care and Sleep Institute (PCSI), offers a
Puppy “Potty” Training Tips
new, minimally invasive technology that enables earlier and more accurate diagnosis of lung cancer. The technology is a robotic bronchoscopy that integrates the latest advancements in robotics, software, data science and endoscopy (the use of small cameras and tools to enter the body through its natural openings).
Adam Wellikoff
Dr. Wellikoff was among the first pulmonologists in the United States to utilize the technology, which was recently cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
A physician operates the robotic bronchoscopy via a video game-like controller. The bronchoscopy utilizes a flexible robotic endoscope to navigate through the periphery of the lungs with improved vision, reach and control. The technology allows physicians to reach locations in the lung that are inaccessible by a traditional bronchoscopy, making it
possible to detect and diagnose lung cancer earlier for better treatment options and outcomes.
“If an abnormality appears on a patient’s lung CT scan, the robotic bronchoscopy is used to pinpoint the nodule’s location and take a biopsy of the tissue,” said Wellikoff. “The technology works in concert with the CT scan, offering us a more precise road map to reach problem areas in a patient’s lung that are hard to access. It’s a real game changer because it means we can detect and treat the disease earlier.”
Wellikoff is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in the subspecialties of pulmonary diseases and critical care medicine. Additionally, Wellikoff was the first board-certified interventional pulmonologist in Florida.
TGH PCSI recently joined Tampa General as part of the hospital’s initiative to serve more patients on Florida’s East Coast. Tampa General has been creating a framework of state-of-the-art services for patients in the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast areas, with the expertise and innovation of an academic health system. TGH PCSI has offices conveniently located in Atlantis and Wellington.
For more information about TGH PCSI, please call (561) 739-4TGH (4844) or visit TGHPCSI.com.
tip oF tHe tail
Like infants and toddlers, young puppies require an extensive amount of time, planning and energy-usually much more than one predicts. Potty training a puppy, one of the most trying tasks, can be difficult. You can make this process easier by understanding your puppy and the tricks that will help you train him or her.
First, you should get a crate for your puppy. A crate is a place where your dog can feel safe and secure. It’s important that they have their own space in which they can go when they need to be alone-it is their den. The crate should be big enough for them to stand up and lie down in comfortably, but small enough so that they don’t have room to pee or poop on the floor of the crate. If you’re using a plastic crate, make sure it has ventilation holes so that your puppy doesn’t get too hot or too cold inside of it. Do not use the wire cages because they will feel exposed. When the pup wakes up, take him directly outside to the same spot each time and stand there, do not distract him or her. You can use the cue word “potty” just once so he or she associates the word with the action. Once he has gone to the bathroom, both pee and poop, reward him or her with a treat. If he or she has not done both pee and poop then put him or her back in the crate and try again in 15 minutes. Once he or she has done both then you can feed and have a play session. Keep your eyes on your pup at all times. Watch for signs of sniffing the ground, wandering off away from play area. If these signs are noticed, then take outside immediately. If less than 12 weeks of age, take him or her outside every 30 minutes until he or she begins going potty outside consistently. Then extend the time to 1 hour, then 2 hours and so on until no accidents occur. Always take him or her out about 15-20 minutes after eating or drinking, wakes up from a nap or has been playing hard and then slows down. Also have your pup go
in the crate for naps throughout the day and go through the same process as in the morning each time he or she is taken out.
This rigid routine can be a few weeks to a couple of months depending on the breed and consistency of training before he or she is officially “potty” trained. Just remember that even the most diligent owner should expect accidents and should not get upset. If you happen to catch your pup in the act, just say no potty to him or her to make them stop and take out right away to allow your pup to finish and then offer a treat. If you punish your pup you could cause them to be scared. This can lead to him or her sneaking off to go potty in the house where you cannot see them instead. Just saying no will confuse them. No potty is specific to the situation.
Having a puppy is fun but is a serious commitment. The potty training process requires, above all, patience and consistency. It will be well worth it to have a fully house trained pup!
Established in 1981, Palm City Animal Medical Center is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pets. With focuses on compassionate care in surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation, preventative medicine, extensive diagnostics, and emergency service, Palm City Animal Medical Center combines exceptional medical care with a caring philosophy for pets and their owners. For more information, call 772-2830920, visit www.palmcityanimalmedicalcenter.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PalmCityAnimalClinic.
