Roses And Rose’ Luncheon: A Stunning Success!
By Jackie Holfelder
Not only was Catch the Wave of Hope’s (CTWH) Roses & Rose’ Paris Luncheon a smashing success, it was a dazzingly beautiful event from start to finish!
On October 24, Hudson’s on the River (the Presenting Sponsor) was overflowing with pink posies, fabulous fascinators, and some of the Treasure Coast’s most vibrant women.
They were on hand – all 170-plus of them – to lend their support to Catch the Wave of Hope in its mission to prevent the sexual exploitation and trafficking of children through awareness and education, while providing restoration to survivors.
Although the mood was joyful, the seriousness of the cause was never far from attendees’ minds as they bid on such luxury items as a Louis Vuitton purse, med spa packages, an
over-the-top Stuart “staycation package,” and a glamorous tea party for 12, to name just a few.
A popular fundraising item was “Survivor Story Roses.” One hundred of these beautiful blooms, each connected to the name of a survivor of human trafficking or exploitation, were sold for $10 each.
A special, one-of-a-kind “golden rose” was purchased for $2,500 and then donated back to CTWH to sell yet again – this time for $2,600. Both purchaser/donors chose to remain anonymous.
In total, more than $60,000 was raised to support Catch the Wave of Hope.
Roses And Rose’ Luncheon on page 3
Humane Society Of The Treasure Coast Begins 70th Anniversary Celebration With Its Annual Mutt March
The year 2025 marks the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast’s 70th anniversary. There will be a series of events to commemorate this milestone, starting with the 21st annual Mutt March Festival and 5K and 10K races on Saturday, Jan. 18, at Memorial Park, 300 S.E. Ocean Boulevard. The races will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Mutt March Festival is free to attend. The cost of the races is $35 for the 5K and $45 for the 10K. To register for a race, go online to https://hstc1.org/ MuttMarch-Register. Packet pickups will take place from Jan. 14 to 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Humane Society’s Palm
City shelter at 4100 S.W. Leighton Farm Ave. All event proceeds benefit the shelter animals’ care.
The event is dog-friendly; other domestic pets are not permitted to attend. Activities to entertain both people and pups include a group walk, a flea-“less” market, adoptable animals, food trucks, a pet costume contest, AKC Canine Good Citizen Testing, a kids’ zone, a lure course, a Camp Bow Wow doggy playground and raffles.
The public is also invited to create a “pack,” which is a fundraising team that raises funds for the shelter animals. For more event information, visit the website, https://p2p. onecause.com/muttmarch2025.
The Mutt March is generously sponsored by Sunny 107.9 FM, Ace of Carts, Camp Bow Wow, Metal Ops, LLC., Groza Builders, Apex Pavers & Pools and TC Palm.
The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast’s 21st annual Mutt March will begin with a 5K and 10K race. Humane Society on page 4
Celebrate The Gift Of Health
At The VIM Gala 2025 ‘Old Havana Nights’
Mark your calendars! Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) Clinic announced that its VIM Gala 2025, themed “Old Havana Nights,” will take place on Saturday, January 25 at the prestigious Willoughby Golf Club, starting at 6 p.m.
This vibrant event will celebrate the clinic’s legacy of providing free, compassionate health care to uninsured, eligible residents of Martin County since 1995. We are happy to announce Bill and Carolyn Michaud as this year’s Gala chairs. Longtime supporters of the clinic since 2010, the Michauds
bring a heartfelt dedication to this event. Guests will enjoy an evening of fun and surprises, fine dining, and live music by Euphoria Band.
For over 29 years, Volunteers in Medicine Clinic has made a difference in our community, providing more than 9,500 patient visits and delivering over $9.9
million in medical care last year alone. Every donation and sponsorship raised through the gala directly funds essential services, including doctor visits, diagnostic care, medications, and referrals to specialists.
“This event honors the years of impact and the incredible support of our volunteers, donors, and partners. Thanks to their generosity, we can continue to give the gift of health,” shared Mary Fields, VIM Clinic’s executive director.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. To purchase, please email gala@vimclinic.net or call Mia Cruz at (772) 463-4128, Ext. 211. You may also visit the website at vimclinic.net/gala.
Since 1995, Volunteers in Medicine Clinic has been making a difference in our community. Our dedicated staff, volunteers and partner organizations have been ensuring compassionate health care is available for eligible, uninsured residents of Martin County.
Silvia Venezia, Roshini Lakram, Nicole Perotti, Jennifer Robson, and Krystal Colbert
VIM Gala on page 4
Volunteers in Medicine Clinic
Gala Chairs – Pictured: Bill and Carolyn Michaud.
guest speaker shared the
DiCicco and Fida
and therapy
young
Committee members included Fida Georges, Chair, and Kelly Laurine, Bonnie Gorman, Paul Wolfgang Ganieany, Amanda Cischke, Catherine Bailey, Nicole Vosters, Delia Templin, Diane Marcum. Kamila Wolser, Lady Lunn, Michelle Campolong, Mallory Mitchell, and Gia Skoch.
“Our TEAM is committed to excellence in personalized dental care, providing quality treatment that our patients deserve. We offer comprehensive services including routine cleanings, teeth whitening, Smile Makeovers, complex implant procedures and “Teeth in a Day.”
ALSO OFFERING: Invisalign®, Secret Pro™ by CUTERA® (RF Microneedling with Fractional Co2), Botox, Fillers, Kybella & Threads.
Catch the Wave of Hope collaborates with other service providers to prevent the duplication of services and to fill gaps in services that are not currently available to survivors. They take a trauma-informed, survivorcentered approach to everything that they do and build the organization based on feedback from the community and those they serve.
To learn more, visit www.catchthewaveofhope.org.
Photos by MaryAnn Ketcham
Operated by Stuart Main Street
Dr. Shannon Plymale-Galinis, and Dr. Thomas A. Galinis
Alicia Chapman and Diane Marcum
Maria and Shayna Lanzetta
Melanie Petschke
Zineb Rodriguez-Torres and Lisa Gay
Michelle Campolong
Nicole Perotti
Kiera
Georges
A
powerful story of her
daughter receiving therapy services
funding from CTWH, allowing her to begin healing from her horrendous experience.
Roses And Rose’ Luncheon from page 1
TGH Advanced Kidney Care
TGH Cancer Institute
Cancer Center of South Florida
TGH Cancer Institute
TGH Concierge Health
TGH Digestive Health Center
TGH General Surgeons of the Palm Beaches
TGH Heart & Vascular Institute
TGH Imaging
TGH Pulmonary Care & Sleep Institute
TGH Urology Group of Florida
Tip Of The Tail
New
Year’s Resolution: Get Your Pet Bikini Ready!
Obesity is not only a growing concern among humans but also among our furry companions. It is estimated that 56 percent of dogs and 60 percent of cats are overweight or obese. As pet owners it is crucial for us to recognize and address this issue that can significantly impact the health and well-being of our beloved pets.
Obesity in pets is more than just an aesthetic concern; it is a serious medical condition that can lead to a plethora of other health problems. Just like in humans, obesity in animals can increase the risk of various diseases such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer. It can also worsen pre-existing conditions like arthritis and respiratory issues, ultimately decreasing the quality of life for our pets.
The primary cause of obesity in pets is an imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure. Factors such as overfeeding, lack of exercise, and genetic predisposition can contribute to weight gain in animals.
Real Estate
Treasure Coast Real Estate Report
The Market Is Set To Remain Strong In 2025. Marketing Is The Key To Selling A Home
By Jim Weix
“Lower interest rates will unleash some of the pent-up demand for housing in 2025,” says Bernard Markstein, president and chief economist for Markstein Advisors. “This will help keep mortgage rates above their ultralow rate of just a few years ago, [but] rates will be lower than current levels.”
However, recent changes in how Realtors can show your home make online marketing more important than ever. That is how 99 percent of buyers locate a home. During those first 15 seconds, it is also what determines if they look closer or move to the next one.
In today’s world, professional photos and aerial photos of the property and surrounding area are a must. Technology has given us some real advantages and potential buyers expect more. There is no excuse for not having professional photos, aerial views, and selfguided walk-through tours of a home for sale. It should go without saying that your home should look its best in the photos.
Since the first photo will likely be the front of your house, walk outside and look at it. Most driveways need power washing every six months. Nothing says “Ick!” like a dirty driveway being your welcoming picture.
As long as you are power washing the driveway, a quick power wash of the front of the house is a good idea. Cobwebs and dirt are easy to get rid of and give the house a better look.
I have a really good feeling about the real estate market in 2025. Let’s make the most of it!
Feel free to call me if you would like to discuss your options. I can be reached at (772) 341-2941 or jimweix@ jimweix.com.
Jim Weix is a broker associate with The Keyes Company. Jim has 25 years of experience selling real estate full-time. If you have questions or want the services of an experienced expert, you can reach Jim at (772) 341-2941 or jimweix@jimweix.com.
Veterinarians play a crucial role in educating pet owners about proper nutrition, portion control, and the importance of regular exercise to help prevent obesity in pets.
When addressing obesity in pets, it is essential to develop a tailored weight management plan that takes into account the individual needs and circumstances of each animal. This may involve adjusting the pet’s diet to a low-calorie formula or metabolic management diet, increasing physical activity levels, and closely monitoring their progress. Regular checkups and monitoring by veterinary professionals are essential to ensure that the weight loss program is effective and safe for the pet. In addition, if your pet is not losing weight as expected, your veterinarian can perform bloodwork to check for diseases such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease that can make it difficult for your pet to maintain a healthy weight.
In conclusion, as veterinary professionals, we must
emphasize the importance of addressing obesity in pets to improve their overall health and well-being. By working together with pet owners to implement tailored weight management strategies, we can help our pets live longer, healthier lives free from the burdens of obesity-related illnesses.
Remember, a healthy pet is a happy pet – let’s work together to tackle obesity in our furry companions and promote a better quality of life for all.
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.
Stuart Chamber happeningS
Stuart/Martin County Chamber members learned all about the health and weight loss services, including infrared treatment provided by NSO Lab Wellness Center, during the November 19 Business B4 Breakfast they hosted and sponsored. Representing NSO Lab Wellness Center (from left) are Adah Smith, Krista Belli, Oliwia and Izabela Lachowicz, with Chamber Chairman Dan Hulen, Fifth Third Bank Merchant Services/Worldpay.
More than 65 Stuart/Martin County Chamber members ended up in the Martin North Hospital on November 26. But no worries … it was for the Business B4 Breakfast, hosted and sponsored by Cleveland Clinic Martin Health. Dr. Rishi Singh, Vice President/Chief Medical Officer, welcomed the group as he presented an overview of the healthcare system upgrades and top rankings. Shown (from left) are Betsy Rogers, Stephanie Quirantes and Dr. Rishi Singh, Cleveland Clinic Martin Health, and Chamber Chairman Dan Hulen, Fifth Third Bank Merchant Services/Worldpay.
Stuart/Martin County Chamber members and guests packed the Flagler Center on November 20 for the annual Holiday Trade Show Business After Hours. Exhibitors displayed their products and services for visitors to do their holiday shopping while enjoying music by Gratitude Steel Band. Delicious hors d’oeuvres were provided by Circa 69, BBQ Island Style, Ellie’s Deli and Sam’s Club, with refreshments by Bonner Mobile Bar. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor Live Hearty, along with fellow sponsors 4EverYoung Anti-Aging Solutions, Aycock Funeral Home Young & Prill Chapel, Madd Hatcher’s Axe Throwing and Skin Serenity Spa. Shown (from left) are Chairman Dan Hulen, Fifth Third Bank Merchant Services/Worldpay; Trustee Laura Barbone, Aycock Funeral
Trustee Nancy Iscowitz, 4EverYoung Anti-Aging Solutions; Trustee Rob Gluckman, Live Hearty; Trustee Candace Lopes and Brooke Holland, Skin Serenity Spa; and Cody Sanfratello, Madd Hatcher’s.
Stuart/Martin County Chamber Chairman Dan Hulen, Fifth Third Bank Merchant Services/Worldpay (right), welcomed new and prospective members at the November 19 Business B4 Breakfast hosted and sponsored by NSO Lab Wellness Center. Shown (from left) are James Raytsin and Emily Dekhtyar, PCPT-Personal Care Physical Therapy; Noah Mason, Elite Hearing Centers of America; Christopher Mejia, Premium Detailing by Christopher; Tris Anderson, Tris Studio Photography; Linda Benyamin, Notary With a Flash; Brandon Vietti, Lifetime Financial Growth; and Hunter Slaton, SpeedPro Imaging.
as they
County Chamber’s
19 Business B4 Breakfast.
at
Stuart Chamber Happenings on page 9
The Robson Heart & Vascular Institute at Jupiter Medical Center is transforming cardiovascular care. At the forefront of innovative heart and vascular treatments we take a multidisciplinary approach combining expertise with leading-edge technology to provide personalized care. Our compassionate team includes cardiologists, interventional and structural cardiologists, cardiac electrophysiologists, cardiac surgeons, and an experienced support team. Modern technology and minimally invasive techniques offer patients the latest treatment options including:
• AFib Center of Excellence • Structural Heart Program • Minimally invasive aortic and mitral valve procedures
• Barostim™ for Heart Failure • Cardiac robotic surgery • Advanced cardiac surgery including off-pump bypass surgery
Home Young & Prill Chapel;
(From left) Andrew Sanvido, Wise Eye Home Inspection; Cheri Coolidge-Plaia, Onshore Roofing; and Joel Dowley, Two Men and a Truck; enjoyed the ambience of NSO Labe Wellness Center
networked
the Stuart/Martin
November
Celebrating the grand opening of their new location at 4425 S.W. Port Way, Palm City, ProBuild3D owners Danny Defelici and Fernando Paolillo cut the Stuart/Martin County Chamber ribbon on December 5. During the special event, they offered a tour of their expansive warehouse and an educational presentation of the unique method of creating 3-D full size structures and concrete walls.
New and prospective Stuart/Martin County Chamber members spent the morning of December 3 getting acquainted with other business members during the December 3 Business B4 Breakfast at The Grace Place. Shown are (left to right) Calesia Blake, Cece’s Grooming; Joshua Ward, South Coast Improvement Co.; Andrew Coniglio and Shane Gross, Coniglio Renovations; Chris Smyth, Smyth Engineering; Marty Greene, Elmar Life Solutions; Nathan Todd, Florida Emergency Cleaning; Christopher Mejia, Premium Detailing by Christopher; Kirsten Stevens, The Kannico Agency; Gus Cruz, Treasure Coast Promotions; and Don Connelly, Cooling with Connelly’s.
On December 5, the LEADERship Government Day Committee coordinated a great day encompassing county, city and municipality administration, constitutional officers, lunch with local officials and much more. A special thanks to all the alumni volunteers: Jordan Pastorius (31), Christina Hunter (32), Taryn Kryzda (13) and George Stokus (25); not pictured George Dzama (30), Tom Campenni (25), Pat Nolan (33), Elisabeth Glynn (26), Cindy Groover (30), Frank Fender (29), Sally Waite (33) and Joe Connelly (28).
The staff and management of The Grace Place Church joyfully welcomed more than 70 Stuart/Martin County Chamber members to the Business B4 Breakfast they hosted and sponsored on December 3. Pastor Steve Bray explained the mission of the church as well as their upcoming Christmas celebrations. Representing the Grace Place were (left to right) Karon Addison, Mya Gill, Kayleigh Kivett, Lisa Emig, Pastor Steve Bray, Suzanne Adams, Daniel Sutton, Stephanie Johnston, Janet Dukelow and Peggy Miller.
Stuart Chamber Happenings on page 10
Treasure Coast Outdoors
Seagrass Return? Let’s Hope New Discharges Don’t Kill It
By Jim Weix
Anglers are reporting seeing seagrass growing back north of the power plant on both the east and west sides of the river. No surprise, but that has attracted trout again.
Forgive me if I am a bit of a killjoy, but I’m so tired of getting my hopes up. Every time we start to
County Chamber members and guests enjoyed the sounds of Gratitude Steel Band as they perused the numerous exhibitors at the Holiday Trade Show, held on November 20 at The Flagler Center.
finally make a little bit of progress, we get another toxic waste dump from Lake Okeechobee.
Twenty years ago, as an idealistic new resident. I joined several groups active in stopping the discharges. I was enthusiastically trying to recruit a Florida native fishing buddy to my cause. He just shook his head and said that I was wasting my time. He said that Big Sugar and the Army Core of Engineers ended all hope when the canals were dug so that water could be dumped into the St. Lucie River. Thus, the C-44 Canal was dug between 1916 and 1924. This pretty much doomed the St. Lucie River.
Yes, some progress does get made to try and minimize the discharges, but at the end of the day, it fails. We began another oyster and seagrass killing discharge on Dec. 7.
The purpose of the discharge is to supposedly protect the lake’s ecology, namely aquatic plants and animals that
and her companion “The Grinch” got into the spirit at the Stuart/Martin County Chamber’s Holiday Trade Show, held on November 20 at The Flagler Center.
ongoing support of the chamber and its programs.
have been inundated with rainfall runoff. Four years of high-water levels have killed 31,250 acres of subaquatic vegetation, which could have a severe impact on bass fishing, said Lawrence Glenn, the South Florida Water Management District’s water resources division director. There’s supposed to be 35,000 acres, but there remains only 3,750 acres, he said.
I can’t help but wonder if there was no such thing as the C-44 canal.
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.
Medicine; Patricia Idarraga and Aleisha Coleman, VNA-Visiting Nurse Association, discussed the healthcare system during the November 26 Business B4 Breakfast at Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital.
Concierge Medicine for you
Introducing David Liporace, Do
Welcome to Jupiter Medical Center Concierge Care where personalized health care meets unparalleled service. Located in the heart of Stuart, Dr. Liporace is a board-certified internist dedicated to providing an exceptional patient experience. Benefits of concierge medicine include:
• 24-hour access
• Same-day appointments
• Extended appointments
• Individualized wellness Call 561-263-4020 to make an appointment.
(From left) Stuart/Martin County Chamber Trustee Kaylin Obards, South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports
Stuart/Martin
Stuart/Martin County Chamber Trustee Rob Gluckman, Live Hearty, shown with associates Ciara (left) and Nicole, was the Presenting Sponsor of the annual Holiday Trade Show, held on November 20 at The Flagler Center. Special thanks to Gluckman and his wife Dr. Michele Libman for the
Heather Price, The Price is Right Real Estate,
Barbara LaBounty, The Pension Source, was feeling no pain as she received a massage from Grassam Spine & Wellness Center during the Stuart/Martin County Chamber’s Holiday Trade Show at The Flagler Center.
Stuart Chamber Happenings from page 10
Tampa General News
Tampa General Continues To Enhance Its Services On
Florida’s East Coast
Since 2020, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has been creating a framework of state-of-the-art services for patients in the Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast areas. More than 70 providers in 12 medical specialties practice in 17 area locations, and two TGH imaging centers offer patients convenient access to a comprehensive list of diagnostic imaging exams. As the system continues to grow, it’s natural that area residents have questions about what this expansion means to them. The information below addresses the most commonly asked questions.
What Is Tampa General?
Tampa General is Florida’s leading academic health system and has been for more than 50 years.
As the teaching hospital and partner of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa General pioneers breakthrough treatments, conducts game-changing clinical research and trains the next generation of health care professionals.
Consistently recognized for world-class care, Tampa General is ranked as the No. 2 hospital in Florida by U.S. News & World Report for 2024/25, and is nationally ranked among the top 50 hospitals in the nation in eight specialties. Additionally, Tampa General was ranked as “high performing” in 15 procedures and conditions and among the top 10 percent of hospitals in the nation in three additional specialties.
Why Does Tampa General Have Facilities On The East Coast Of Florida?
Tampa General is partnering with leading physicians on the East Coast to help the community connect with academic health care to improve access to groundbreaking clinical research and top-quality care for patients with complex conditions. When A Practice Joins Tampa General, What Does This Partnership Mean For Patients?
Patients don’t need to take any action. Their current level of care will continue, and even be enhanced. Patients continue to see the same doctor at the same location. Accepted insurances, copayments and medical records will remain the same.
Patients will have access to several benefits when a practice partners with Tampa General, including:
• A convenient path to the highest level of academic-based care
• Access to a wider variety of clinical research trials by Tampa General and its partners at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
• The opportunity to receive enhanced personal treatment plans
• Access to minimally invasive and complex surgeries that utilize state-of-the-art technologies
• Options for advanced immunotherapy treatment
What Happens If A Patient Needs To Go To Tampa For Complex Care Or Surgery?
If a patient needs complex care in Tampa, a nurse navigator with specialized expertise will coordinate their care, transferring medical records and other needed paperwork and information.
Patients will also be connected with a Tampa General health ambassador who can help arrange travel and accommodations, and handle any other logistical needs, so that their trip is as smooth as possible. As part of the Tampa General network, each affiliated Palm Beach County medical provider and their practice will support a patient’s treatment, offering presurgical and postsurgical care after complex surgery in Tampa. East Coast physicians join Tampa General as a reflection of their commitment to advance research, innovation and technology to transform health care for their patients.
Tampa General Hospital East Coast Provider Network*
TGH Advanced Kidney Care
David S. Amrose, M.D.
Imtiaz M. Ather, D.O.
Kerim Oncu, D.O.
Alberto Ortiz, M.D.
TGH Cancer Institute
Robert S. Scoma, M.D.
Marcus Eby, M.D.
Jason M. Hechtman, M.D.
Mark J. Meyer, M.D.
TGH Cancer Institute – Cancer Center Of South Florida
Abraham B. Schwarzberg, M.D.
Kelly Foster, M.D.
Varun Gupta, M.D.
Vijay Narendran, M.D.
Marshall Posner, M.D.
Talya Schwarzberg, M.D.
Sujal Shah, M.D.
Raymond E. Tsao, M.D.
TGH Concierge Health
Laurie P. Rothman, M.D.
TGH Digestive Health Center
Jeffrey Garelick, M.D.
Glenn H. Englander, M.D.
Sonja Olsen, M.D.
Robert S. Raymond, M.D.
David Schwimmer, M.D.
Sheldon Taub, M.D.
TGH General Surgeons Of The Palm Beaches
Itzhak Shasha, M.D.
TGH Heart And Vascular Institute
Amy Mostafavi, M.D.
TGH Imaging
Walter H. Forman, M.D.
Donald W. Goodwin, M.D.
Robert L. Stickle Jr., M.D.
Hunter Wasserman, M.D.
TGH Pulmonary Care And Sleep Institute
Jay S. Maizes, M.D.
Alan Bakst, M.D.
Luis J. Peña-Hernández, M.D.
Carlos Sanchez, M.D.
Denzil Seedial, M.D.
David Weissberger, M.D.
Adam Wellikoff, M.D.
TGH Urology Group Of Florida
Lawrence M. Yore, M.D.
R. Neill Borland, M.D.
Murray G. Goldberg, M.D.
Emanuel E. Gottenger, M.D.
David S. Meinbach, M.D.
Edward M. Scheckowitz, M.D.
David Weinstein, M.D.
*Physicians only. Network list is current, as of December 6, 2024.
For more information about Tampa General providers in the Palm Beaches, visit TGH.org/ThePalmBeaches.
