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 4
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 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.
For The Moon on page 6
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.
United Way Of Martin County Celebrates 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
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)
Mark Garwood Phoenix Scholarship Recipients
Treasure Coast Outdoors
As We Enter The Sailfish Season, Let’s Reflect On What
Made Stuart Famous
By Jim Weix
The year is 1941 and Stuart, Florida experiences the largest sailfish run in Florida’s history! Early records show an excess of 5,000 sailfish were caught during the peak season with many boats catching over 20 in a day.
Fortunately, the local charter captains recognized sailfish were worth a great
deal more as a living resource than they were dead on the dock. Led by captains like Curt Whiticar, the club organized a conservation initiative based on rewarding anglers for releasing sailfish. The club later designed a yellow gold and enamel release pin to be awarded to anglers releasing sailfish. The famous red release pennant soon followed and thus began the club’s promotion of conservation policies in earnest.
The Stuart Sailfish Club (SSC) maintains these same strong core values today. From the novice fisherman to the world-traveled professional sportfishing teams the SSC has something for everyone. Go to https://stuartsailfishclub.net/ and find out how you can benefit.
Editor’s note: Jim Weix is an avid hunter, angler, conservationist, as well as an outdoor writer. Jim is included in the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association’s Hall of Fame for helping restore thousands of acres of wetlands. Jim is a broker associate with The Keyes Company. He can be reached at (772) 341-2941 or by email at jimweix@jimweix.com.
Club News
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 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.
Dr. Shannon Plymale-Galinis, and Dr. Thomas A. Galinis
Aesthetic Dentistry Seabreeze Ad Winter23
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 Writing and Digital Media teacher at Hidden Oaks Middle School; and Christopher Forte, Hidden Oaks Middle School principal (Photo by Paul Careccia)
“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
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)
Prochilo, Josh Muir and Devin Carlson, General Manager and Partner of
students’ curiosity, while integrating innovative teaching methods, is truly commendable.”
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)
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 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!”
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.
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 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.
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
Murgado Automotive Group Stuart (Photo by Doreen Poreba)
Julie Spircoff and Jill Burton of Sandhill Cove Retirement Living (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)
Michael Recinos, Celine Salgado, Anne-Marie Shultz and Christina Saltos with iThink Financial Credit Union (Photo by Doreen Poreba)
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.
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.
and Broward counties in South Florida. Photos courtesy of Tracey
Presenting Sponsor Murgado Automotive Group
Presenting Sponsor Devin Carlson with Murgado Automotive Group
Judge Donald W. Hafele and State Rep. Toby Overdorf
Chip James, Rachel Docekal
Sheriff William Snyder
Shoot For The Moon
1
Indiantown Village Manager Taryn Kryzda, Mayor Carmine Dipaolo
John Bowers, Peyton Brown, Elizabeth Stoops, Andrew Stoops
Martin County Sheriff’s Office
Shoot For The Moon on page 7
Erica Garwood, State Rep. John Snyder, John Garwood
Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach,
Benson Photography.
United Way Of Martin County Celebrates from page 1
Derek Lowe, coordinator of Public Information and Community Relations for the Martin County School District, served as event emcee.
Top 10 Communities 1. Sailfish Point 2. Harbour Ridge 3. Willoughby 4. Sewall’s Point 5. Piper’s Landing
Jupiter Hills 7. Mariner Sands 8. Sandhill Cove 9. Loblolly
10. Jupiter Island
• 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.
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)
“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 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
Pratt & Whitney 5. Martin County Board of County Commissioners
Cleveland Clinic
Raymond James
City of Stuart
Wells Fargo
Ashley Capital
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.
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.
Photos by Liz Mckinley
Since United Way’s inception of honoring our Top 10 Most Generous Workplaces and Communities, Sailfish Point continues to reign as the most generous community in Martin County. (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)
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)
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.
Attendees enjoying the program.
Sailfish Point homemade and custom decorated United Way cookie dessert platter.
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 state-of-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.
The Singles Scene Column© Good works
Special Holiday Edition by: Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli, The Real Matchmakers
state of mind. In dating and relationships, a healthy mindset means knowing that opportunities are endless, and the best is yet to come.
Do December. Do LOVE. And just like that, we find ourselves in the magical month of December. So, did you love more in 2024? If you fell short of your personal goals this year, here are Four Secret Santa Tips destined to increase the odds of wrapping up December with a big red bow. Now is the time to bask in all of your hard work invested in family, friends, and business in 2024. This is the perfect time to show some extra love to yourself. If your circle is authentic, they will adore this ramping up in you--and therein lies a gift to the people you love. Ready to rock December with us? Simply cut this article out and read it often all month long and do share this with your single family and friends too. Thank us later.
1. Splurge on YOU.
Giving yourself gifts of love and attention will automatically trigger your brain to say “I am worth it!” Parents, grandparents, and over-nurturers can get stuck in a path of thinking solely about others. As matchmakers, we urge you to put yourself first. This is a gift of acknowledging how hard you have worked this year. Spoil yourself with a gift that keeps on giving --I.E. better connections and better relationships. Your loved ones will appreciate the newfound smile on your face. NOW, that’s a GIFT.
At Revolution Dating, we see this principle come to life every day with clients of all ages. Clients who are confident, successful, and self-aware tend to attract partners who reflect those same qualities. This December, prioritize YOU. We have clients enroll on December 30th--and guess what--they are guaranteed to have a secret glow on New Year’s Eve 2025--even if they don’t have their dating portfolio ready yet. Hope is an inevitable aphrodisiac and it is contagious.
2. Let Romantic LOVE be Your North Star. Love comes in many forms—look for it everywhere-because it is all around you. Enjoy all forms of love from platonic to romantic to familial to self-love. The holiday season is an ideal time to reconnect with those who matter most to you. Notice love. Notice your need for love.
For singles, this is an excellent time to meet someone new. There is a certain openness this time of year--only found in December--and especially at Revolution Dating which happens to be the Corporate Headquarters of Love, est. 2014.
3. End with the Lesson of JOY
Have you taken yourself or others too seriously this past year? December highlights celebration, compassion, and laughter--and that is all.
If you’re single, loosen up and elevate your mindset. A shared laugh can turn a good experience into a great one. Create memories that linger long after the holidays.
Joy is the best feeling on Earth. It makes it all worthwhile. Could you use more joy in your life? Follow us for more...joy.
4. It is NEVER too late!
Start at 40. Start at 70. Start in December. Start at 5:00pm. Just start. Abundance isn’t just about material wealth; it’s a
Shift your focus this December from what’s missing to what you have and you will have even more because you are grateful. Celebrate the little victories: a great conversation, a kind gesture, or even the courage to put yourself out there. When you view the world through the lens of gratitude and possibility, you naturally attract more of the same.
At Revolution Dating, we see time and again how an abundant mindset transforms our clients’ love lives. Those who believe in their worth and trust the journey tend to experience greater success—not because they’re lucky, but because they’re open to receiving the love and joy they deserve. They are open to our guidance and faith in them. We only want the best for our clients--and usually they only want the best for themselves. Add a dash of realism to that recipe and you are on your way to a delicious December.
At Revolution Dating, we believe the final chapter of the year should be the best part of the year and it will help you to create an even better 2025. The predictions are in: We are all about to walk into one of the best years of our lives. So, let’s set ourselves up for some extra love in our personal lives. Whether you’re single, dating, or married, this month is a marker for good moves and action.
So, as you deck the halls and countdown to midnight, remember: your December can be filled with excellence, laughter, and abundance. And who knows? It might just be the month that changes everything. Fall into Romance this holiday season with the help from The Pros!
Thank you so much for following us for so many years. We appreciate your loyalty and love. Wishing you and yours a very Happy Holiday Season 2024! Stay tuned for more love.
Xoxo - Kelly & Miranda
#LoveOffline #MatchmakingRoyalty #TellYourFriends #OneOnOneMatchmaking #YouHaveArrived
Kelly Leary© has 33 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has also been written about in Modern Luxury Magazine Palm Beach and Modern Luxury Manhattan, The Palm Beach Post, PalmBeacher Magazine, Stuart News, Jupiter Magazine, and many more. Revolution Dating members are pre-screened in person including background checks. 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 her Team also provide feedback from your 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 addon to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the North East. Call the main hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code below to hold your place in the club.
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. 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.
The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is reaching out to caring individuals to foster one of its pets, like these, as part of its “Home for the Holidays” program.
Photos by Sarah Fisher
“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/Home-for-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.
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.
Complex surgery doesn’t always mean a lengthy recovery. Our surgeons perform minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery through incisions as small as one inch. For less pain. For faster recovery. For every care in the world.
Turn to the experts at Cleveland Clinic hospitals on the Treasure Coast.
ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/AdvancedSurgery
winners of the Women’s 4.0 division and Judy and Sylvie were runners-up.
“A successful tournament depends on the work of a lot of people. We want to give a special shout-out to everyone 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.
“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.
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.
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
stuart ChaMber haPPeNINGs
Hair Cuttery CEO Eric Bakken was excited to present the latest of his salons, located at 5929 S.E. Federal Highway, Stuart with an official Stuart/Martin County Chamber ribbon cutting on October 24. Chamber members and staff joined in on the festivities, as they were educated on hair care products and services.
Stuart/Martin County Chamber members were in for a treat as they sampled several delicious breakfast items offered by Alice’s Restaurant “A Caring Café” at the October 29 Business B4 Breakfast sponsored by ARC of the Treasure Coast. Keith Muniz, CEO of ARC (center), explained how his organization acquired Alice’s Restaurant to train and employ individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities under their guidance. Shown are ARC and Alice’s Restaurant associates.
Plymale, Treasure Coast Legal
and his mother Sherry Plymale entertained and educated Stuart/Martin County Chamber members at the October Business at Lunch at Martin Downs Golf Club with a mock debate explaining the constitutional amendments on the ballot. Shown with the Plymales was Chamber Chairman Dan Hulen, Fifth Third Merchant Services/ Worldpay.
Stuart/Martin County Chamber Past Chairwoman Janice Norman (left) and Deb Duvall (right), Water Pointe Realty Group, enjoyed visiting with Trustee Lee England, Express Employment Professionals, at the October Business at Lunch sponsored by Live Hearty at
The staff and management of Serenity Stuart celebrated the new apartment complex with a ribbon cutting during the Stuart/Martin County Chamber’s October 22 Business B4 Breakfast. As host and sponsor of the event, staff members invited guests to tour their variety of modern apartments and amenities. Shown (from left) are Chamber Ambassador Jon Ryan, Ryan Advisor Services; Alan Rose, Chamber Director/Trustee Jeff Gustafson, Karen Gustafson, Alyssa Harper and Celeste White, Serenity Stuart; Chamber Chairman Dan Hulen, Fifth Third Merchant Services/Worldpay; and Ambassador Dawn Maschas, Aflac.
and
enjoyed coffee and conversation at the Stuart/ Martin County Chamber’s October 29 Business B4 Breakfast sponsored by ARC of the Treasure Coast at Alice’s Restaurant “A Caring Café.”
Stuart/Martin County Chamber members learned about the importance of staying healthy and fit from October Business at Lunch sponsor Dr. Michele Libman and her husband Rob Gluckman, owners of Live Hearty, at Martin Downs Golf Club. Shown (from left) are Chamber President/CEO Joe Catrambone, Dr. Michele Libman, Rob Gluckman and Nicole Cannella, Live Hearty.
Stuart Chamber Happenings on page 13
(From left) John Stauffer, Brighter Days Electric; Rob Bauman, Blue Stream Fiber;
Butch Bayley, Sailfish Marina;
Lisa Teetor, VIP America, introduced her administrator Susan Vargo at the Stuart/ Martin County Chamber’s October Business at Lunch sponsored by Live Hearty at Martin Downs Golf Club.
Shawn
(right),
Martin Downs Golf Club
Stuart Corinthian Yacht Club Commodore Scott Smith cut the Stuart/Martin County Chamber ribbon during the Grand Re-opening of their beautifully remodeled waterfront club on November 14. Both chamber and yacht club members enjoyed the refreshments and delicious hors d’oeuvres served during the ceremonial event.
Stuart Chamber Happenings from page 12
Stuart/Martin County Chamber members spent the morning of November 5 gathering goodie bags with the 2025 Welcome Guide to deliver to fellow chamber members for the annual Operation Thank You. Special thanks to Chamber Trustee All Area Roofing & Construction for sponsoring the event and to Cali Coffee and Berry Fresh Café for providing food and refreshments for the Kick-Off Breakfast.
As sponsor of the Stuart/ Martin County Chamber’s November 5 Operation Thank You Kick-Off Breakfast, Trustee All Area Roofing & Construction advised members of unscrupulous roofing companies that are on the prowl following the recent hurricane and tornadoes. They addressed several questions with informative facts and details. Representing All Area Roofing & Construction were (from left) David Velez, owner Jennifer Richards and John Breed, with Chamber Chairman Dan Hulen, Fifth Third Bank Merchant Services/Worldpay.
Stuart Chamber Happenings on page 14
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.
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 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). 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.
Adam Wellikoff
’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 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.
Book Review
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-incheek 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.
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.