The Boys & Girls Clubs Of Martin County’s Second Annual Songwriters In The Round
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County’s Second Annual Songwriters in the Round, presented by Beth and Steve Svopa and Brown & Brown Insurance, was a crowd pleaser. On a starry night that included a rocket launch, guests wore boots, jeans, dresses, and cowboy hats for an unforgettable evening of country music, barbecue, and dancing. Songwriters in the Round
Long, Beth and Steve Svopa, Phillip White
made its debut in 2023, and for the second time, the event was sold out.
Set among the country-style barn and decor, guests enjoyed cocktail hour, a silent auction, and delicious appetizers by the Fork in the Road food truck by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County’s culinary program. There was a special performance by local musician Kurt Stevens, who is known for blending laid-back trop-rock with the storytelling soul of country.
Guests enjoyed an intimate musical experience that offered a “behind-the-music” concert with the best of Nashville’s singer/songwriters, Brice Long, who has enjoyed a successful 25-plus year music career. As a songwriter, he has had over
Dazzling 10-Foot Marlin Sculpture Shines At Lighthouse ArtCenter’s Roadside Reveries Exhibition
Artist Rene Gibson’s Lucky Mike blends beauty, resilience, and Florida flair with nearly 100,000 hand-placed crystals.
Roadside Reveries , on view at Lighthouse ArtCenter through August 1, brings together 22 contemporary artists from across Florida and the U.S. to explore the strange beauty and nostalgia of Florida’s vacation culture. From hand-painted signage and souvenir-like sculptures to surreal taxidermy and mermaids, the exhibition captures the quirky spirit of roadside attractions and the wonder they inspire. Among the standout pieces is Lucky Mike, a 10-foot-long sculpture of a leaping marlin by mixed-media artist Rene Gibson, encrusted with nearly 100,000 shimmering crystals that catch and reflect the light in dazzling, ever-changing ways.
Council On Aging Honors
Curated by Anthony Record, Roadside Reveries, reflects on how Florida’s tourist destinations blur the lines between history and fantasy, and between the natural and the manmade. Curator Record expressed, “Pieces like Lucky Mike show how art can transform the way we see nature, not just as a scenic backdrop but as something alive, full of possibility and character.”
Gibson’s Lucky Mike anchors that vision with shimmering intensity. Composed of crystals in 36 different colors and enhanced with 13 specialty coatings, the sculpture glows with a dreamlike quality. “I saw a marlin one day
Seven Martin County Seniors With Sage
The Council on Aging Martin County honored seven Martin County seniors at the Ninth Annual Sage Awards Celebration in April, proving that age is not an indicator of impactful community involvement.
All seven honorees have an impressive record of accomplishments for all they did throughout their working lives. Each of them is also creating a legacy of service to the community in their senior years.
At the Sage Awards Celebration, Council on Aging CEO Karen Ripper noted that the honorees come from various walks
of life but they share a remarkable demonstration of leadership, unwavering dedication, and deep compassion for others.
The 2025 Sage Awards honorees are: Gert Rodgers, Chairman’s Award, an accomplished healthcare administrator with a passion for quality care for all and a tireless advocate for seniors and issues of aging; Tom Campenni, Charlie Kane Award, the founder and publisher of the community digital newsletter Friends & Neighbors ; Nick Blount, Community Service, a longtime leader and volunteer for causes and projects that improve the life of the community; Tony Anderson, Education, a former teacher and school board member and an energetic champion of education; Kristal Wion Eckhardt, Arts and Culture, the founder of the highly successful drama department at Martin County High School and now an active member of
Awards
Brice
Rene Gibson with Lucky Mike
Culinary student
Lighthouse ArtCenter on page 3
Council On Aging on page 6
John Doody, Nancy Crowder-McCoy, Board member Bill Clifford, Elizabeth Barbella and Kelly Buist
The Singles Scene Column©
No Tariffs On Love
By Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
“This unique engine (the heart in love) has always captivated humanity. Indeed, we have often believed that everything is under its command.” ~~Pierre Berville
Summer is upon us, and it will go quickly, so let’s consider some fun facts about the allure of June. Welcome to extra sunshine, beach days, nostalgic rock music, and nights that don’t start until 9:00 p.m. Summer romances can last forever, so swipe left on the fling because we are here for the real thing. Tan lines will fade, but real love will not. Yet, many singles get weighed down by emotional overload, economic woes, and fear of rejection. Singles wonder: Are relationships still worth the cost? At Revolution Dating, our answer is simple: Yes. Because in our community, there are no tariffs on love, only massive returns.
Real love is not subject to market fluctuations. Unlike the swipe-happy online dating addicts, our confidential matchmaking service offers something truly recessionproof~~a priceless genuine connection. A dynamic duo will always live better than a single person. Finding (the right) love interest is and will always be your wisest and most significant investment. You have a financial advisor. Factor in a love advisor and thank us later.
Caveat: Remember to share this with someone you care about, and know that this information suits the SINGLE and the TAKEN, ages 20 to 80.
The Cost of the Modern Dating Dilemma: High Risk. Low Reward.
With 34 years of experience, let us share the hardcore facts. Using online dating apps or rolling the dice in the bar may appear “free” on the surface, but the hidden costs are steep. Take notes on this and bring it up at your next dinner party.
• Time wasted messaging incompatible matches or attempting to vet each candidate with your limited free time.
• Emotional burnout from ghosting, catfishing, or worse … someone in another country trying to gain access to your bank account information. It happens more often than you think but no one will tell you.
• Safety concerns exist, especially for high-net worth professionals and upscale retirees. Do not post your photos on a public forum for all to envy. This can lead to identity theft, fake profiles, or an awkward encounter in your social
Dating
circle. Many have seen their clients or neighbors on these sites, making both parties incredibly uncomfortable.
• The Inevitable Dating App Fatigue that drains confidence and hope. With social media alone, self-esteem is at an all-time low, so why bother? Technology is for work. Not for love. Nothing beats traditional and oldfashioned introductions.
Online dating platforms can feel like a clearance rack in the back of the store ... i.e., the unwanted and out of style. Discerning singles, C-Suite executives, and entrepreneurs must step it up to meet a good partner. Matchmaking is in, and online dating is out, and this phenomenon has been escalating dramatically over the last ten years. Real people with real success do not use online dating forums. Enter: Matchmaking Skills.
At Revolution Dating, we know you’ve worked hard to build a quality life, and your love life should mirror your high standards. Modern dating should not feel like a gamble. Curated, confidential connections tailored to your lifestyle, values, and goals trump stranger danger every night of summer. So, quit while you are ahead and focus on your day job while we focus on your love life and coaching (you may need). Chemistry is found in real-life connections. Unlike online platforms that profit from your endless swiping to KEEP YOU SINGLE, we succeed when you stop looking and pair off. This is why we offer unlimited introductions all summer long. We do not want to keep you dating. That is more work for us. We love a one-and-done.
Insurance Policy on Romance?
Get real. Dating is expensive—not just in dollars but in emotional wear and tear. Bad dates, dashed hopes, and wasted weekends add up. Our talent, vast connections, and skillset protect your most valuable assets: your time, energy, money, and heart. Unlike the digital Wild West of online dating, our process is built for discretion. If you are a public figure, C-suite genius, or someone who values privacy, our matchmaking ensures your personal life stays private. Jet-Set Sans Jet-Lag.
Why does summer lovin’ happen so fast? In a nutshell, people are more open, spontaneous, and relaxed. This is the only time of year that single parents of school-age children get a life, too. CONGRATS, SINGLE PARENTS! Energy is lighter and more playful, making summer the ideal condition for escalating a meaningful relationship. Your summer love story does not require a plane ticket, but an open mindset is mandatory. You can vacation in your backyard with your plusone by your side. Just remember, our flights book quickly, so don’t delay or you may get stranded.
In our 34 years of specializing in representing clients who navigate the entire northeast coast, we have capitalized on our investment in the love movement. When you succeed, we succeed. Whether you are newly single, divorced, or widowed, let this summer bring the change you seek. Now is the perfect time to discover what’s
possible when love is handled professionally, not casually. Your new summer hobby awaits. ... Book your initial interview with us today before we book solid. Clients are pre-booking weeks in advance. Don’t let summer love pass you by. Simply scan the QR code and fill out the form or give us a jingle. LIVE Matchmakers are standing by.
XOXO - Kelly & Miranda #SummerLove25 #LiveOffline #ScreenFreeSummer #DiveIn #TellYourFriends #MatchmakingRoyalty
Kelly Leary, M.S.© is CEO and Founder of Revolution Dating which she launched in 2014. Kelly has 34 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has been written about in Modern Luxury Magazine Palm Beach and Modern Luxury Manhattan, The Palm Beach Post, The Shiny Sheet, Stuart News, Jupiter Magazine, and many more. Revolution Dating
and thought it would be gorgeous covered in crystals,” said Gibson, who began the project in 2017. “It became a labor of love—an extraordinary statement piece destined to shine in a Florida coastal home.”
The marlin’s journey from concept to completion spanned several years and personal milestones. After beginning the piece, Gibson was sidelined by a vestibular virus and later diagnosed with breast cancer. During her recovery, the work took on deeper meaning. “At that time, finishing the marlin no longer seemed important,” she recalled. “But as I healed, my desire to complete it came back stronger than ever.”
Completed in 2019, Lucky Mike was briefly exhibited in early 2020 but remained in Gibson’s home during the pandemic. Its return to public view at Lighthouse ArtCenter invites visitors to marvel at the craftsmanship and the perseverance it represents.
Roadside Reveries is on display at Lighthouse ArtCenter’s main gallery, located at 373 Tequesta Drive in Tequesta, Fla. Admission is free for members and a $5 suggested donation for nonmembers. For hours and additional exhibition details, visit lighthousearts.org or call (561)746-3101.
Lucky Mike’s belly
Lighthouse ArtCenter from page 1
Lucky Mike’s big mouth
Community Happenings
Kid-Preneurs Shine At Market On Main
There’s something extra special happening on the third Sunday of every month at Market on Main in Historic Downtown Stuart—a vibrant pop-up of creativity, ambition, and youthful energy known as the Kids Market. Since its debut in the summer of 2021, the Kids Market has become a beloved feature of Stuart’s favorite outdoor market. It’s more than a charming addition; it’s a grassroots business incubator for the area’s youngest entrepreneurs. These “kid-preneurs” are not just selling lemonade and cookies. They’re building brands, learning life skills, and gaining hands-on experience that will shape their futures.
Open to local children and teens, the Kids Market invites participants to sell handmade, homegrown, or locally sourced products. Offerings range from glutenfree baked goods and hand-
poured candles to artistic creations, soaps, jewelry, and freshsqueezed lemonade in seasonal flavors. All vendors must apply and meet market guidelines, ensuring a high-quality and authentic experience for shoppers.
Among the standout vendors is Keegan, who began her business at age 11 with a line of handmade soaps and candles. What started as a creative outlet during the pandemic has since grown into a thriving mini-business, thanks to Keegan’s dedication and the support of Market on Main. Her mother, Jennifer, shared, “This program is important to us. We believe it strengthens the community and encourages economic growth by empowering young entrepreneurs.”
Another sibling duo, Eamon, 16, and Maeve, 14, launched Daisy’s Gluten-Free Baking to solve a problem close to home: finding organic, gluten-free treats without refined sugar. Unsatisfied with store-bought options, they began experimenting in the kitchen. Now, they share their delicious results with marketgoers each month. “They’re not just learning how to run a business,” their mom Daisy explained, “they’re growing in confidence and pride. It’s amazing to watch.”
The Kids Market offers more than a shopping opportunity— it’s a chance for our community to uplift and celebrate the next generation of makers, bakers, and innovators. Shoppers can browse riverside under the shade of the trees, enjoy live music, and connect with local families in a meaningful way.
Held year-round at Flagler Park every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (extended to 2 p.m. in the cooler months),
Market on Main is a community-led effort operated by Stuart Main Street. In addition to the Kids Market, the event features a wide array of locally grown produce, pasture-raised meats, artisan foods, handmade crafts, wellness products, and more—offering something for everyone, every week.
Now’s the perfect time to get your child involved or simply show up and show support. To apply for a space in the Kids Market, email market@stuartmainstreet.org or visit www. stuartmainstreet.org/market.
Follow Market on Main on Facebook and Instagram @ StuartMarketOnMain.
Shop small. Support local. Encourage young entrepreneurs.
Dating from page 3 clients are pre-screened in person, including background checks and ID verification. Professional photos are taken by the staff. Revolution Dating is NOT online dating or blind dating. In addition to providing matchmaking services that make singles “UN-single” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and Miranda also provide feedback from dates when appropriate. Mock Dates are available by request. Single Coaching Sessions and Evaluations are also available by request for non-members or as an add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast Area. Do call the central hotline at 561-6309696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code below to hold your place in the club. Why wait? Just Date!
Behind The Scenes: Sunshine, Sparks, and Soulmates
Revolution Dating Receives BEST OF 2025 from Florida Weekly!
#AwardWinningMatchmakers
Successful single, divorced, and widowed clients are ready to live and love offline. Revolution Dating is a full-service matchmaking firm specializing in screening and representing clients from the Northeast to Palm Beach for decades, with a corporate brick-and-mortar office in your backyard in the exclusive PGA Commons business neighborhood. Last month, the team celebrated many of their new success stories that have gone public! Thankfully, they chose to share their love with the community outside of the office and downstairs at Rocco’s Tacos on PGA Boulevard. Revolution Dating invites you to embrace love with them this summer. You belong here. #TellYourFriends #SummerLovin
Eleven Years and Rising! #MatchmakingRoyalty
Dale & Donna Share an Intimate Moment. #SrSuccessStory
Bruce & Brenda thank Kelly and Miranda with Beautiful Bouquets. #SpreadTheLove Meet New Client, Austin! #TallHunkAlert
175 of his songs cut with artists such as Garth Brooks, George Strait, Chris Stapleton, Hank Williams Jr., Randy Houser, Josh Turner, Reba McEntire, Gary Allan, Cody Johnson, Chris Young, and many more. Long’s songwriting hits include the No. 1 singles “Heartache On The Dance Floor” by Jon Pardi and “Nothing On But The Radio” by Gary Allan. Randy Houser’s “Like a Cowboy,” a song that also garnered Brice a CMA nomination for Song of the Year. Other recent chart toppers are Randy Houser’s debut single, “Anything Goes,” “Today” from Gary Allan, Casey James’ “Let’s Don’t Call It A Night,” and Jon Pardi’s “What I Can’t Put Down.” Joining Long was songwriter Phillip White, the writer of Reba McEntire’s “I’m A Survivor,” and in 2000, a song that Phillip wrote with D. Vincent Williams was placed on Rascal Flatts’ debut self-titled record. That song, “I’m Movin’ On,” became the group’s first No. 1, and eventually won both writers Academy of Country Music Song Of The Year accolades. Among the songs from Phillip’s catalog are Neal McCoy’s Top 10 hit “Billy’s Got His Beer Goggles On,” Reba’s Top 10 hit “He Gets That From Me,” Blake Shelton’s Top 10 hit “Nobody But Me,” Trent Willmon’s hit “On Again Tonight,” Scotty McCreery’s single “The Trouble With Girls,” and cuts on records by artists like Gary Allan, Scotty McCreery, Neal Coty, George Strait, Blackhawk, The Blue Dogs, Chris LeDoux, Brian McComas, Rachel Proctor and Kevin Sharp, Tanya Tucker, Chalee Tennison and Kenny Rogers. With a steady pen writing top hits, Phillip White should continue writing hits for years.
During their performances, guests enjoyed a barbecue dinner and s’mores dessert from Fork in the Road. The night ended with the Andrew Morris Band as they played today’s country hits, as guests danced the night away.
Funds raised support the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. This event directly benefits the Workforce Development Program. The Workforce Development program is designed to nurture essential employment skills among our youth and help build brighter futures. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County offers comprehensive training, providing hands-on learning opportunities through their Skilled Trades Program, Career Exploration and Virtual Training, Culinary Programs, and Manufacturing 4.0. The primary goal of the Workforce Development initiative is
to ensure that every young individual has equal access to resources and career opportunities after graduation.
The event was cochaired by board members, Beth GarciaSvopa and Andrew Kennedy. Committee members include Colette Beland, Andrea Economus, Christina McIntosh, Carson Proctor, Jackie Rea, Jennifer Sardone-Shiner, Sarah Testa, and Chris Vaccaro. Sponsors include Beth and Steve Svopa/Brown & Brown Insurance; Proctor Construction Company; Pamela Bernard; Florida Training Services, Inc.; VM Iron Works & Structural Steel; Brennan Engineering; Elder & Estate Planning Attorneys PA; and JSS Marketing & PR.
To learn more about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County, visit https://www.bgcmartin.org.
Photos by May Ann Ketchum
Kim Rupp, Mark Robitaille, Kari and Mike Waldron
Etienne and Katey Bourgeois, Lorna Day
Sara and Anthony Mastroianni, Mike Durkee
Jennifer Sardone-Shiner, Beth Svopa, Baba Rizzuto and Naika Sinanan
Kerrie Tyndall, Andrew Kennedy, Sarah Testa and Carson Proctor
tip of tHe tail
Preventative Medicine
As pet owners, we want nothing more than to give our furry family members long, healthy, and happy lives. One of the most powerful tools we have to ensure this is often overlooked: preventative medicine and routine laboratory work.
Unlike humans, pets can’t tell us when they’re feeling off. In fact, many animals instinctively hide signs of illness or discomfort. By the time we notice visible symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, or lethargy a disease may already be advanced. That’s where routine exams and diagnostics come in. Preventative care helps us catch issues early, often before symptoms ever appear, and when they are most treatable.
the arts community; Jordan Bromberg, M.D., Health Science and Medicine, a revered medical practitioner on the Treasure Coast and now the medical director for the Volunteers in Medicine Clinic; and John P. Glynn, Jr., Military and Veteran Support, a veteran himself who is driven to honor the men and women who have served their country.
“We honor all of our honorees for using the wisdom, talents and treasures they’ve cultivated over a lifetime to enrich the world around them,” Ripper said.
Dr. Reza Khatib, an internationally renowned neurosurgeon and resident of Palm City, was the Presenting Partner Sponsor for the Sage Awards Celebration. Honoree Sponsors include Betsy Herold, Craig and Elizabeth Price, Nearing & Dallas Wealth Management at RBC Wealth Management, Richard A. Zappala Family Foundation, and The Community Foundation Martin – St Lucie. Sage Sponsors include Dadko Wealth Management of Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, HBK CPAs & Consultants; Nancy Goethel, CFP ®, CIMA ®, CRPC ® – vice president of Investments at Raymond James; N. Schoonover & Associates, Inc.; Sandhill Cove Retirement Living; The Saelzer/Atlas Wealth Management Team of Raymond James; South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine; Water’s Edge Healthcare and Rehabilitation; and Assisted Living at Sandhill Cove.
“As we applaud the 2025 Sage honorees,” Ripper said, “we also pledge to continue our work to ensure that all of our seniors are able to maintain vibrant and purposeful lives, aging with dignity and a sense of belonging.”
For more information about the Council on Aging Martin County, visit www.coamartin.org or call (772) 223-7800.
Annual or biannual wellness exams are the cornerstone of preventative veterinary medicine. During these visits, your veterinarian will perform a full physical exam to check for abnormalities such as heart murmurs, dental disease, lumps, or skin infections. But just as important is what we can’t see from the outside, what’s going on inside your pet’s body.
That’s why routine lab work is so important. Blood tests, urinalysis, and fecal exams provide a window into your pet’s internal health. A basic blood panel can detect anemia, infections, or early kidney and liver disease, often long before your pet seems sick. A urinalysis can reveal hidden issues like diabetes or bladder stones. Regular fecal tests help identify intestinal parasites, which can harm both pets and people.
Establishing a “baseline” of your pet’s normal lab values is another major benefit of routine testing. If your pet ever becomes ill, your veterinarian can compare current results to past records and detect even subtle changes that may be significant.
Preventative care isn’t just about detecting illness, it’s also about monitoring trends over time and adjusting care accordingly. For example, a senior dog’s lab results might show a gradual increase in kidney values. With early intervention like diet changes or medications, we can often slow progression and give your pet more quality time.
Many serious illnesses, such as cancer, kidney failure, or endocrine disorders like hyperthyroidism, don’t show
outward signs until they are far along. Routine screenings give us the chance to intervene before these problems become life-threatening.
It’s also worth noting that preventative medicine is often far less expensive than treating advanced disease. A simple wellness panel could detect early liver disease that, if left unchecked, might require hospitalization, intensive treatment, or even emergency surgery down the line. Your veterinarian is your partner in your pet’s health. Together, through regular checkups and routine testing, you can detect issues early, extend your pet’s lifespan, and improve their quality of life.
In short, investing in preventative medicine is one of the most loving things you can do for your pet. After all, they trust us to take care of them, and that includes staying a step ahead of illness.
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) 283-0920, visit www. palmcityanimalmedicalcenter.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PalmCityAnimalClinic.
Michael and Diane Dadko, Board member Steven McGovern, Jeannie McCall, Board Chair Dr. Neil Boland, Honoree Gertrude Rodgers, Michele Davidson, Jill Burton, Board member Bert Giscombe, Shawn Perrigo
Members of the Board: Past Chair Nicki Schoonover, Bert Giscombe, Board Chair Dr. Neil Boland, Elizabeth AbeyttaPrice, Gregory Nuttall, Heidi Lahti, Chuck Cleaver, CEO Karen Ripper, Bill Clifford
Trey Fritz, Muffin Adamiak, Polly DeLater, Betsy Herold, Dr. Linda Kardos, Dr. Howard Robbins, Carol G. HouwaartDiez, Chuck Cleaver
Honorees: John Glynn Jr., Anthony Anderson, Dr. Jordan Bromberg, Nick Blount, Gertrude Rodgers, Kristal Wion Eckhardt, Tom Campenni
Craig and Elizabeth Price, May Smyth, and Liz Flynn
loggerHeaD news
Blue Friends Society Supports Sea Turtle And Ocean Conservation During Rooftop Social
At Topside At The Beacon
Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s (LMC) Blue Friends Society hosted a social gathering at Topside at the Beacon on Wednesday, May 7, to support the center’s significant work on ocean conservation and sea turtle rehabilitation. More than 100 members enjoyed an evening of cocktails, light bites, and a special raffle at the renowned rooftop bar and restaurant, offering stunning views of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.
The Blue Friends Society is a community of LMC supporters and ocean conservation advocates who come together to engage in conservation activities, build
connections, socialize, and support the center’s mission. To become a member, contact bluefriends@marinelife.org.
Photos by Tracey Benson Photography
Deb Rasmussen, Bill Quinn, Susan O’Connel, Gloria Briggs
Regina Anicito, Tina Munroe, David Friedman
Susan Knox Berzin, Danny Holsclaw, Susan Holsclaw, Ben Berzin
Krissy Mikus, Alyse Lemstrom, Meg Miller, Nicole Dugan
Pete Wells, Lynn Wells Amanda Joiner, Andy Dehart
Monique Brechter, Steve Heinemann
Roger O’Brian, Kymberly O’Brian
Ellen Lawless, Joe Lawless Lisa Sliney, Rich McMichael
Papyrus: The Invention Of Books In the Ancient World
By Nils A. Shapiro
Nils began his career as marketing director for a major book publisher. He has since edited the authors’ manuscripts’ for more than 20 published books, written more than 200 book reviews, served as publisher of several million-plus circulation national magazines, created the official yearbooks for teams in Major League Baseball, the National Football League, National Basketball Association and National Hockey League and “retired” as president of a successful telecommunications company.
Readers familiar with this monthly review column will readily understand why I ordered a copy of this book immediately upon learning of its existence and turned to the first page within minutes after its arrival at my front door. The title alone was all it took to arouse my interest. Now that I have turned the last page I can report that for me, and for those who share my passion about books and a general love of learning about certain periods of early history, this book is worth every moment of its 384-page journey—with one caveat, which I will explain later in this review.
Originally published in Spain, author Irene Vallejo’s exquisitely written text has been translated so brilliantly by Charlotte Whittle that she deserves an equal bow, and the 53page reference section at the end of the book attests to the depth of research that makes possible the many hundreds of new facts you will learn from this international best-seller.
This is a story that spans more than 9,000 years, beginning long before the “invention” of writing. As just one example of the extraordinary amount of surprising information that awaits you here, the ninth century B.C. Greek poet Homer—whose two epic classics, The Iliad and The Odyssey, were considered sacred for centuries—created and performed these two works from memory in the oral tradition of his time, over and over again without ever having once written them down despite the fact that The Iliad is 15,000 lines in length and The Odyssey consists of 12,000 lines!
The alphabet as we know it did not even begin in its first form until the second half of the eighth century B.C.—long after Homer was gone—and was frowned upon by many at the time as a “trick” that would lead to people losing the ability to develop their memory skills.
A major leap from a limited few being able to inscribe official documents on clay tablets to making writing and reading more widely available can be traced to the papyrus plant that grew in vast numbers along the banks of the Nile River in Egypt, when it was discovered that, properly treated, its leaves could be scratched upon and each leaf folded with others to form longer scrolls—documents capable of being stored and copied over and over again by trained scribes.
Later, when Alexander the Great conquered Egypt on his way to conquest of the known world he installed a trusted officer,
Ptolemy, to rule over that defeated nation. One of Ptolemy’s first decisions was to build what history has come to revere as the “Great Library of Alexandria,” his plan to house a copy of every book known to exist in the entire world! By “book,” of course, he referred to scroll documents.
In order to accomplish this extraordinary feat Ptolemy had to send emissaries to every corner of the known world, carrying the funds needed to pay for scribes to make the necessary copies, a dangerous mission at a time when murderers and thieves lurked everywhere. But he fulfilled that commitment to achieve what became one of the great Wonders of the Ancient World.
The adventure of that library’s history is a compelling story in itself, but it is only one of many in this author’s narrative that guides us from clay tablets to papyrus leaves … to the slaughter of animals, treating their skins to make sturdier, longer-lasting parchment … to the introduction by China of paper … to Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press that made many thousands of scribes of no further use … to the codex binding format first developed in the Roman Empire … to computers and the increasingly popular electronic formats.
Along the way we encounter many hundreds of faces both familiar and new, among them: Plato, Tiberius, Euripides, Oedipus, Orwell, Conrad, Ovid, Petrarch, Poe, Cleopatra, Palladas, Pausanius—the list seems endless. But I was fascinated to learn from this history of books an interesting fact about one particular man as described by the author herself in this brief excerpt from Papyrus:
“On the Anatolian Peninsula, the crossroads of several cultures, a Greek was born with mixed blood and a curious mind who was obsessed with this old conflict. Why were these two worlds—Europe and Asia—enmeshed in a life-and-death struggle? Why had they been at odds since time immemorial? What were they seeking, how did they justify themselves, what
were their reasons? Had it always been this way? Would it be this way forever?
“This man who was so fond of questions spent his whole life looking for answers. He wrote a long work of travels and chronicles, titling it Historiai, which in Greek meant “inquiries” or “studies.” We still use the word he redefined when he gave a name to his task, untranslated: “history.” With his work, a new discipline was born, and perhaps a different way of looking at the world. Because the author of The Histories was a person with inexhaustible curiosity, an adventurer, a seeker of wondrous things, a nomad, and one of the first writers able to think on a planetary scale, I might almost say, a precursor of globalization. This is, of course, Herodotus.”
So this one man, Herodotus, in the fifth century B.C., gets the credit for why we use the word history to describe the study and writing of past events as we do today. Such information fascinates me, and this book offers that in overflowing portions.
And now for the caveat —albeit a minor one—that I mentioned at the opening of this review: As riveting as is this author’s history of books I found it disconcerting that she interrupted the journey several times to insert brief chapters that are essentially essays describing events unrelated to the book’s overall subject: Peggy Guggenheim’s introduction of modern art to New York in the 1940s; the Elvis Presley-like reaction that greeted the classical music genius Franz Liszt; the romantic interlude of an aging celebrity. I admit to having skipped past these to continue reading the history itself, then after finishing the book went back, read these brief “essays” and found them excellent, but likely more suited to a separate collection by this skilled author.
On a scale of 1 to 10, Papyrus earns 9.5 from me. That should be sufficient recommendation for those of you who share my passion for this subject.
kiDs Corner
Is Your Daughter ADD?
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
“My ten-year-old daughter often has trouble following multistep directions, will lose her place in reading and need to re-read, will say ‘huh?’ or ‘what?’ after being given directions, blurts things off topic, has a difficulty staying engaged during lessons, and shows inconsistencies in academic performance.” This mom asked, “Could she be ADD (now called ADHD Inattentive Presentation)?”
These warning signs showed a valid concern and lead her to trust her instincts and seek out professional help in understanding her child. She felt like her daughter might be being manipulative but yet she did not want to scold her for something that she might not always be able to control. Mom also wanted to understand treatment options if it was ADHD, Inattentive Presentation.
Our school neuropsychological evaluation tested many key areas of attention including her sustained
attention, attention capacity, impulse control, flexible thinking, memory, and processing speed. The child also completed a self-esteem assessment to gain understanding about how she felt about herself. Emotional health is important for reaching one’s potential.
The results revealed two factors which contributed to her challenges. First, she had slow processing speed. This helped explained her “huh” types of behaviors. She must put in lots of mental effort when learning new content. This drained her mental energy and contributed to her difficulty maintain attention. Once her mental fuel was used, she tuned out, disengaged from learning and showed avoidance behaviors.
The second factor was indeed a deficit in sustained attention. This was validated through interactive tests of attention, a computerized test of attention, and by having others complete behavioral rating scales. We discussed the different treatment options, and this mom decided to first work on increasing her underlying processing speed prior to considering other treatments. This mom also planned to share the results with her school to give understanding and obtain accommodations.
Call (561) 625-4125 if you would like to discuss your child and your concerns for possible dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Learn more at www.JimForgan.com.
JUNE 2025
BUSINESS
President’s Message
Get Ready For Summer And Hurricane Season In Palm City!
June ushers in the joys of summer—backyard barbecues, poolside fun, family vacations, weddings, and graduations. But for us Floridians, it also marks the start of hurricane season. This year, forecasts predict an above-average number of named tropical systems. What does “above normal” even mean? As a 25-year Florida resident, I’ve heard this prediction every year, and yet, it always prompts me to check the official hurricane names list. This year, I was thrilled to see “Rebekah” on the list (with a slightly different spelling than my own). Excited about a hurricane name? It sounds odd, I know! While I’m flattered to make the list, I’m sincerely hoping Hurricane Rebekah stays far away this season.
Thanks to my sons at Florida Power & Light, I’ve learned the importance of early hurricane prep. Gone are the days when I ignored the need to stockpile supplies, dreading the chaos of crowded stores, long gas station lines, and the challenge of storing items that might sit unused all season. Now, I’m ahead of the game, stocking up on bottled water, batteries, and shelf-stable food to ensure my family’s safety.
So, ask yourself: Are you prepared? It’s not too late to get ready for the 2025 hurricane season! At the Palm City Chamber of Commerce, our trusted local businesses are here to help. Stock up on essentials at Costco, fortify your home with hurricane protection from O’Donnell Impact Windows and Storm Protection, or connect with our many skilled contractors to secure your property. Let’s work together to keep Palm City safe and resilient.
Start your preparations today—visit the Palm City Chamber of Commerce for a list of members ready to support you!
Rebecca Beckett, CFP ® HJ Sims
President, Palm City Chamber of Commerce
2025 Palm City Chamber Of Commerce Board Of Directors
President Rebecca Beckett HJ Sims
President Elect Meghan Shirey Boys & Girls Club of Martin County
Vice President Mike Gonzalez Blue Stream Fiber
Treasurer Chris Coller Twinkles Gift Shop
Past President David Bradford Edward Jones
Executive Board Member Amanda Foster Zarro Mortgage
Director Pat Gleason State Insurance
Director Rob McLaughlin Access 365 Urgent Care
Director Carolyn Leibowitz Cruise Planners
Director Daniel Wade Century 21 Move with US
Director James FitzGerald Mattamy Homes
Director Lori McNicholas Keller Williams of the Treasure Coast
Director Ryan Bloss Ashley Capital
Director Rob Ranieri House of Hope
Director Angela Kacprowicz Guaranteed Garage Doors and Repair
Ex-Officio Toby Overdorf State Representative
Ex-Officio Ed Ciampi Martin County Commissioner
Ex-Officio Marsha Powers Martin County School Board
Community Champion
Aycock Funeral home is a member of the Dignity Memorial® network of funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers. As such, they offer high-quality, compassionate care and service you can trust. They are always there for you, so please call them if you need help planning a funeral or would like to talk about the benefits of planning ahead. At Aycock Funeral Home, they will help you with prepaid Funeral Plans, Cemetery & Cremation, Memorial Services, and guide you through what is often a difficult, and sensitive process.
April Networking Breakfast
The April Networking Breakfast was a morning filled with fun and laughter. Anna Valencia Tillery representing White Glove Moving, Storage & Delivery of Florida was the first speaker. Her energy was inspiring and engaging. She brought up members of the audience to take part of her presentation and got lots of smiles in return. If you are even thinking about moving close by or across the country, please contact Anna and she will make certain that your move is stress-free. Whether your move is residential, commercial, or specialty, White Glove will ensure that all your needs are accommodated.
Our other breakfast sponsor at the April Breakfast was Project Graduation. Melissa McComas and Sam Bruning spoke on behalf of this organization that was started on behalf of all seniors graduating from all the
Martin County High Schools. They spoke about the mission of Project Graduation and the positive impact that it has on our entire community promoting a safe way to celebrate graduation on the eve of this monumental event. There are lots of ways to volunteer your time, make donations, and support this great cause. The April Networking Breakfast was a great success, and we can’t wait for the next breakfast!
New Member Spotlight
Barista Creamery
We’re thrilled to officially welcome Barista Creamery Coffee and Tea Co. to the Palm City Chamber of Commerce and to our growing community of vibrant local businesses.
Whether you're looking for a morning pick-me-up or a late-night treat, Barista Creamery has you covered. Early risers can start their day with handcrafted hot or iced specialty coffees, chai lattes, and fresh-baked pastries— perfectly paired with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. But don’t stop there. Come back later for their delicious and unique ice cream selections, including fully customizable rolled ice cream topped just the way you like it.
Their chic and welcoming interior makes Barista Creamery more than just a coffee or dessert spot, it’s a place to meet friends, take a break after school, hold a casual client meeting, or enjoy a moment of calm in a busy day.
The Palm City Chamber of Commerce is incredibly happy to announce that the newly opened Costco of Stuart has joined our Chamber. Costco is a global retailer with warehouse club operations in eight countries, and we are thrilled to welcome them to our community. The store offers a gas station, pharmacy, optical services, a hearing aid center, auto parts and services and many other rewards for membership. This is such a fantastic addition to Martin County, bringing great benefits to consumers. Costco has a commitment to quality, bringing the best value to members and is also an employee-focused company, attracting jobs in a positive, high-energy environment. If you are looking to book a vacation, purchase groceries, buy high-end electronics, or buy the $1.50 hot dog for lunch, Costco will give its members the best value!
Melissa McComas and Sam Bruning, Project Graduation Moving Poster
Anna Valencia Tillery, White Glove Moving, Storage & Delivery of Florida
Sherri Martin, Life Vantage; Ambassador Dawn Smith, First Southern Bank; Ambassador Christine Favata, All American Signs and Graphics; Don Pipes, Sunshine Land Company; Anna Valencia Tillery, White Glove Moving, Storage & Delivery of Florida; Mary Eagle, Rockin’ H Ranch;
Elizabeth Turner, Sarah Rivas, and Bethany McLaughlin, Living Well Pilates; Board Member Daniel Wade, Century 21 Move With Us
Golf Tournament
Rain or shine, our community knows how to have a good time and this year’s 30th Annual Golf Tournament was no exception! Held at the stunning Pipers Landing Yacht & Country Club, the day started with umbrellas, but it ended with smiles, laughs, and a celebration of three
decades of tradition. A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor, Florida Power & Light. Their generous support helped make this milestone event possible. We are so grateful for their continued partnership. Whether you played, donated, cheered, or helped behind the scenes, your support means the world to us and keeps this tradition going strong. A final huge thank you to our photographer JP Moore of Engel & Völkers, for getting these incredible shots.
Lynora’s Ribbon Cutting
We’re excited to welcome Lynora’s to our growing community. A name that’s been creating buzz not just for its food, but for the energy and style it brings to the local dining scene. Known for its fresh take on Italian favorites and a lively, welcoming vibe, Lynora’s is already turning heads and filling tables. It’s always special when a wellloved name chooses our town as its next home. It shows what we already know, Palm City is a place where great businesses, great food, and great people come together. Lynora’s isn’t just a new restaurant; it’s a new neighbor, and we’re thrilled they’ve joined our community. We can’t wait to see their continued success and hope everyone takes a moment to stop in, say hello, and enjoy a meal.
Nancy Abrahante, Century 21; Board Member Daniel Wade, Century 21; Lisa Webb, Century 21
Martin County Commissioner Ed Ciampi, Marshall Critchfield, FPL
Ryan Bloss, Ashley Capital
