Portfolio Magazine - November/December 2022

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Contact Us Editor@Portfolio-VeroBeach.com (321) 438-8733

3055 Cardinal Drive, Suite 107 Vero Beach, 32963

Owner/Editor/Sales

Penny Tranchilla

Art Director

Christina Alta Luboski altagraphicdesign.com

Copy Editor

Alyssa Carter

Cover

Joshua McMiller

Featured

Joshua McMiller Luke Steadman

Nicole “Nico” Holderbaum

Contributing

Reilly Koontz, @reillykoontz

Alyssa Carter, @alyssatranchilla

Penny Tranchilla, @n2sup_penny

Social

Reilly Koontz

Contributing Writers

Olivia Assaf

Vicky Dominguez Susan Harris

Reilly Koontz

Alyssa Carter Penny Tranchilla

@verobeach_portfoliomag

@PortfolioVeroBeach

Published six times per year.

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©2022 Vero Beach Portfolio. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the expressed written permission of Vero Beach Portfolio. Neither advertiser nor publisher will be held accountable for errors, omissions or accuracy of statements, nor does the publisher accept liability.

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Photography by Penny Tranchilla

It’s hard to believe we’re publishing our last issue of 2022! It’s been a great year showcasing the beauty around us. We are so grateful for all of you that support us as a reader, advertiser, writer, friend, and fan. We love our community and all of you. This publication has always been a labor of love. From our hearts to yours, we wish you a wonderful holiday full of joy, laughter, and so much love.

Penny, Reilly & Alyssa

Digital Art by Jesse Strang | Jesse Strang is a designer, artist, and the creative director of Strang Creative—a multi-disciplinary design studio that focuses on crafting meaningful solutions for brand identities. StrangCreative.com

“That which is done with love is well done.”

- Vincent Van Gogh

Art is all around us. It is life. Many things make up art. Some of our greatest painters sought to paint to escape the reality of life. It’s no surprise that during the pandemic, when we allowed and had the opportunity to be still and attempt to quiet our minds, many people discovered or rediscovered their love of art. Art comes in many forms like music, photography, theater, etc. Just wake up at sunrise and look up; it’s a masterpiece! Our sunsets are just as spectacular.

Our cover artist, Joshua McMillan, has always considered art important in his life, often creating in his down time as a way to stay balanced. Nature inspires him and being in nature awakens his inner artist to create. Joshua’s style is very vivid, bright, and colorful. Monet once said, “I’d like to paint the way a bird sings.” Being in nature seemed to be a key element of inspiration for all the artists we featured in this issue.

Luke Steadman is a well-known Vero Beach local artist that has had his work showcased around the United States and in private collections. Luke’s work is calm and quiet, evoking a sense of stillness that soothes the soul. You can get lost in Luke’s paintings and drift away.

Nicole, or “Nico,” Holderbaum is an award-winning visual and mural artist. She has painted murals around the world. She’s deeply rooted in her communities' connecting women from all over to gather to paint, as well as being an inspiration to kids to guide them into designing and painting.

As the beginning of season kicks off, we hope you will visit our local galleries, museums, and theater. The art strolls resume, the theater shows never disappoint, and the museum always has great exhibits. Embrace your inner artist! Classes are offered at most places, too. Be sure and check out and support each of our artists featured on the following pages! If you’re up for a road trip, Miami’s art week is the first week of December. Art Basel is December 1-3, 2022. Check out our art calendar this issue for all the latest events!

Written by Penny Tranchilla | Photography by George Pagan III

JOSHUA MCMILLER

“As an artist, finding your unique style and applying it to everything you do is vital,” says Joshua McMiller. Birmingham, Alabama, native, Joshua McMiller, has been on a long journey of discovery through art. He began this journey at The University of Alabama as a biology major, which changed after freshman year by switching his major to Studio Art. As a New York City based artist, he began focusing his pieces on a connection to our spiritual world and the beauty of nature. Having a sense of balance in such a bustling city was very important for Josh. Focusing on nature was the first step along the road to discovery, as nature provides much comfort and inspiration for him. In 2020, the pandemic changed his primary location to Vero Beach, and he began working on larger-than-life nature-based murals.

Art has always been his first love. Initially, it was not his primary focus though. Although Josh did art regularly, his primary focus was on his work in the fashion industry as a Ford model. Life had other plans, and continually seemed to intervene any narratives that didn't support Josh being a full-time artist. Often, he would find himself seeking solace in creating works of art and every opportunity seemed to push him in the direction of his true love of art, especially during the pandemic.

Now settled in Vero Beach, new inspiration has awakened every side of his artistry. Beauty and the often, untouched nature here in Vero have boosted the whispers from God that drive his paint brush. From abstract to realism, Josh is exploring many sides of his craft. Realism is the manifestation of mastering art, but abstraction poses a different challenge for the artist. Josh mentioned, “Our minds seem to be hard-wired to correct images which makes abstract art quite an exciting mental challenge for me.”

Nevertheless, he continues to push the envelope by exploring new realms of endless creative possibilities. Traveling has been another big inspiration for Josh’s work. His latest pieces entitled “Femme” and “Homme” are the culmination of the exploration and mastery he’s developed. They are provocatively forcing ambiguity while blurring the lines of traditional and contemporary works. This season, a stunning use of color is his focus as vibrancy is the energy he’s portraying in his newest collection.

What’s next? Trusting his inner guidance, staying alert for the whispers of nature and life, and understanding that self-expression in art is a lifetime assignment.

Follow Josh on his artistic journey on @mxmiller to see his latest work or to purchase his artwork.

Artwork and story provided by Joshua McMiller

JOSHUA MCMILLER

Alocasia Adora | Acrylic on canvas | 24” x 30”

LUKE STEADMAN

For Luke Steadman, a strong work of art is a result of an inspirational experience, one with long-lasting impressions. His art is comfortably and solidly grounded in both the discipline of the academic tradition and in his own philosophy about life and experience. He has always been keenly aware of the world around him and true to the tradition, Luke looks for inspiration in every day sensations or impressions that are often overlooked. He finds himself more responsive to the subtle beauty of things, the hours when there is tranquility of light, the moods evoked by atmospheric conditions, and the rhythms of nature. For Luke, inspiration comes when his perceptions and feelings about what he observes in nature resonate with his soul. He finds wisdom in nature’s solitude and at any moment he can be captivated by a certain display of color, the effects of light, a single wave, or a person’s gesture.

Viewers can seek refuge in the sanctuary of Luke Steadman’s art. He brings a depth of beauty and serenity of nature to his paintings that collectors not only relate to but are inspired and refreshed by. Simply stated, “they can feel it and they love it.” His work is quiet and contemplative, enveloped in atmosphere and mood. Forms of rest and solitude appeal to him, symbolic of quiet and repose. Luke’s paintings are reflective of his own temperament, which he imparts to the canvas, and the picture becomes imbued with his poetic message.

Attracted at an early age to the elements of design, Luke did not pursue his natural artistic aptitude until after high school. In 2001, he enrolled at the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. Graduating with honors in 2005, he was the recipient of numerous Ringling awards and two national awards. After graduation, he went on to study at the Florence Academy of Art in Italy.

Since 2003, Luke has been represented by some of Florida’s premier galleries and has had showings in other prestigious galleries throughout the United States. His paintings can be viewed in museums as part of national traveling exhibitions, with many purchased for public and private collections. Collectors have commissioned Luke to travel to favored locations and capture the mood of the landscape with his style of painting. In addition to Luke’s talent for revealing the beauty in nature, he is also an accomplished portrait artist, and is often commissioned to depict the personality and likeness of individuals.

For over 20 years now, Luke has strived to build up his technical facility and develop his perceptions so that when it comes time to paint he is fully aware of what he is trying to express and the control of the means of expression has become almost automatic. Luke speaks of precious moments when he is painting purely from his intuitive emotion and explains, “At times my paintings pull me in towards that which captivates me; it takes on an alluring energy, as though the painting is just happening. I become lost in the moment, time goes by and suddenly the painting is finished.”

Luke’s guiding principle in his work as an artist is “your art is to be the praise of something that you love, the expression of your true delight, enthusiasm, and love in a real thing.” When viewing Luke’s work, it is undeniable where his passion lies, he simply loves his family. Whether it’s his wife, Amanda, as seen in “Treasures of Low Tide,” his daughter, Ava, in “Her Brothers Boat,” or his son, Tyson, in his portrait of “Ty.” Each one evoking a calmness and serenity along with a harmony between model and scene. The same may be said with his other love: nature, where he attempts to awake others to this world’s natural beauty. In Luke’s words, “My paintings are to be uplifting and a pleasure for the viewer to enjoy. I strive to impart the emotions felt from my experiences onto the canvas in a manner that will invite the viewer to share in the often tranquil and contemplative mood of the moment.”

You can contact Luke directly and view more of his work by visiting LukeSteadman.com

Coastal Rhythms at Sunrise | Oil on canvas | 32” x 32”

Artwork and story provided by Luke Steadman

Her Brother’s Boat | Oil on canvas | 24” x 30”

NICOLE “NICO” HOLDERBAUM

Nicole “Nico” Holderbaum is a Florida-based visual artist, muralist, creative director, and designer. Nico trained in art schools and programs growing up, eventually leaving to further develop her career in Jacksonville as a muralist and street artist. Nico has painted murals around the world, and has been commissioned by & collaborated with globally-recognized brands and businesses, including Red Bull, Empire Records, Atlantic Records, Island Records, the Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL), Swisher Sweets, PNC Bank, among many others. Nico has also participated at popular mural and music festivals, including Governor's Ball and Wide Open Walls.

Nico has an established track record as a community leader and youth empowerment enthusiast. She has been awarded extensively for her community activism, recognized in Jacksonville as a “Community Champion” and “Art Innovator.” She has curated and produced art & music events, as well as creating a community program called the Kid's Mural Project, guiding thousands of students across Florida in designing and painting murals. She is also a leading member of Few & Far Women, a global all-female crew of street artists, who have organized mural productions from Mexico to India and aim for women empowerment and inspiration through the arts.

Nico is now currently based in Miami, where she looks forward to growing in a thriving arts community and further developing her skillsets and projects and grow as a creative director.

You can find Nico and her community of artists out painting during Miami’s Art Week. Stay up to date by following her on @nicosuavalicious or @fewandfarwomen

Artwork and story provided by Nicole Holderbaum

Yellow Pup Wall Mural

Peaceful Panther Wall Mural

Nico and her pup showcasing some of her pieces.

Photography by Zach Key

LUKE

By Leonard Gershe

One

East Harbor Join The Community

East Harbor is an infectious Alternative-Pop band arising from Florida’s Treasure Coast. The four piece consists of Josh Dobson (Vocals), Robby Savage (Guitar), David Gonzales (Bass), and Cory Kouns (Drums). Formed back in 2014, East Harbor spent the past few years crafting their style and playing numerous live shows. They quickly turned into Florida’s biggest party band with their unique sound and unforgettable energy. With their catchy electric guitar leads and bubbly synths, the guys have created an iconic cross-over sound to get you off your feet and dancing. Whether you’re cruising down the beach or kicking it at a house party, East Harbor has crafted the quintessential—feel good sound.

East Harbor released their debut single “Lucid” (Feb 2019) and follow-up track “R.W.I.B.” (April 2019) garnering praise and attention from tastemakers and fans worldwide. Since then, the band landed a PR deal with Danger Village for the release of their single “Highlight of My Week” (December 2019); followed by their latest track “Miss the Old You” (March 2020). Here's what people had to say:

• “This new release is surely further proof of their musical ability.”

Variance Magazine

• “The effervescent sounds of “Highlight of My Week” drives you forward and beyond.” - Come Here Floyd

• “Excellent from start to finish. It really gives off a feel-good vibe that creates a better day for the listener.” - Reignland Magazine

This is only the beginning for the fresh, young band. East Harbor recently signed a worldwide distribution deal with RA Music Productions and just released their first EP titled “The Community” on October 14, 2022. This included their four previously released singles, as well as two never before heard tracks. They also released their first music video that same day.

It’s only the beginning for East Harbor and you won’t want to miss out on their journey. Visit EastHarborMusic.com, or join The Community on @eastharbormusic

Written and photography provided by East Harbor

Party in PINK Raising Funds to Fight Breast Cancer

Cathy Curley, Vero’s favorite PINK Realtor, hosted the 1st Annual Vero Beach Pink Party at Riomar Beach Club on September 23rd to thank her clients and supporters and kick off her Flamingo Fundraiser supporting Breast Cancer Awareness. Cathy’s first career was event planning, and it was apparent as her attention to detail impressed a crowd of over 100 attendees. Upon arrival, guests walked a pink carpet under a custom-made balloon archway to have their photo taken. Everyone was greeted with a pink drink as hors d’oeuvres were passed and a saxophonist played jazz on the oceanside veranda. The highlight of the evening was when Curley gave her entertaining speech which was heartfelt and also drew many good laughs! It ended with her young boys, dressed in pink of course, joining her and drawing a name for a door prize. Curley said she had been wanting to host this party for several years and was thrilled it finally came to fruition. Her broker, Dale Sorensen Sr., was in attendance and sported a pink shirt for the occasion.

The Flamingo Fundraiser is the first of its kind in Vero. Curley had a website built, marketed to the community through multiple channels, ordered 300 flamingos, and offered community service hours to local high schoolers who signed up to help her “flock” lawns and businesses all over town. At the time of print, Curley was the top fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, and 100% of the money she raised went toward research efforts and local assistance programs. It was a FUNdraiser and brought joy to many as people waited to see where in Vero the flock would land next. When asked, “Why breast cancer?” Curley responded, “Two reasons—yes, it’s on brand as breast cancer awareness is pink, pink, pink, but this cause is also near and dear to my heart as I lost my stepmother to breast cancer in 2010.” Curley is thankful for the success she’s had and overjoyed that she was able to give back to the community that she loves and calls home.

Written by Michele Tal | Photography by Madeline Eberhard & Kenneth George

Curley Family

Erin Vatland

The Flock of Flamingos

Dale Sorensen

Overview

The Cultural Arts Village A Neighborhood in Itself Is a Work of Art

I’ve always been grateful for growing up in a small town outside of Baltimore City. My love of art came from visiting the Baltimore Museum of Art whenever I got the chance! My love of history and the Victorian homes in my neighborhood and all over in Baltimore City gave me my lifelong love of historical architecture. I moved to Vero Beach in 1972 with my family. In the late 70s and early 80s, my then husband and his business partners bought the Driftwood Inn from the Sexton family; I was in heaven! At the time, Deborah Gooch and I had an interior design business. We renovated and designed the rooms above Waldos Restaurant, reflecting a rare Victorian design. We named the units after world famous writers. We were grateful and astonished to receive awards and to be featured in magazine articles.

In the early 80s, my family and I purchased the historic Sawyer House in Old Riomar. For me, it was love at first sight! Deborah Gooch and I went to work again renovating and designing the home for my family of five kids and lots of animals. Finding out the history of Dr. Sawyer and his family only made me love the house even more. Mrs. Sawyer also loved kids and animals—the vibes were right! Deb and I were both lovers of 1830s American antiques. So, the design Deb and I chose shied away from the usual Florida decor. Our design was so unique for Florida that it immediately garnered media attention from many magazines including the 1986 edition of Better Homes and Gardens Country Magazine. We were featured both on the cover and an article. We were shocked and overjoyed!

When I was 19, my beautiful and loving mother passed away from breast cancer at the age of 49. Understandably, breast cancer awareness has always been important to me. So, before we moved into the “Historic Sawyer House,” we opened our doors wide for a cocktail party where ticket holders paid $25 each for the opportunity of exploring the home as a benefit for the American Cancer Society of Indian River County. After the opening night benefit, our home was open for one week offering tours.

Now to the present, well sort of... In 1993, I bought the old house that I live in now. I found out six years ago that Barbara Hoffman, who at the time was chairman of the Cultural Council, had plans and hopes to turn the Historic Edgewood Addition neighborhood into the Arts Village. I remember saying to her “Yay! I’m at the right place at the right time!”

A wonderful group of early believers spent many hours coming up with lots of ideas for this exciting project. It took 6 years of working and believing in this historic old neighborhood, but finally the city council agreed to the changing of the city code to allow artists to live, work, and have small galleries!

Back in 2017, Portfolio featured an article about the arts village that I participated in, it was called “Life in the Heart of the Cultural Arts Village,” I would like to share what I wrote at the time. “I hope to see the vision for the arts village to come alive and flourish with people who are quirky, colorful, imaginative, spirited, charming and most of all, neighborly. A neighborhood in itself a work of art!” It is all is coming true!

Take a bike ride or a drive through the up-and-coming arts village and see what we’ve been up to!

Written by Dale McGee Photography by Alyssa Carter

Homeschooling Gather at the Table

Around the warmth of a family’s lavish table, laughter, and cheers encourage the eldest brother to recite Dickinson’s poem. If you know the movie, the opening scene of Seabiscuit takes place just before the Great Depression, when everything gets very hard. I love this scene. To me, it is a beautiful reminder to never neglect the gift of gathering around a table to share a meal.

Yummy food, laughter, and the sense of belonging... It is around the table every night my husband, two boys and I, sit together for dinner. We offer thanks to God for our food, for each other, and for life… then we eat! Even over the simplest of meals, the value of these consistent moments is priceless. The abundance of life skills and habits that are gained make it worth the effort to rally the troops, put away cell phones, and gather.

Whether it is helping prepare the food, taking pride in setting a delightful table, or taking drink orders, everyone has a job to do—responsibility and ownership. Once we all sit down, there is an exhale. A chance to slow down and time to honor one another by listening to each person share about their day or whatever is on their mind. It’s a time to practice manners, although I do find enjoyment watching my boys eat, complete with various smacking noises.

Sometimes our conversations stay light, other times I encourage the boys to retell some of the stories we read in history or other “read-aloud’s” from the day. Mealtime also creates an opportunity to ‘ask dad’ science or other technical questions. If there is a scripture, quote, or poem they memorized, they get to recite it to their dad (I guess my boys can thank the writer of Seabiscuit for having to recite poetry around our table.) If we are eating Italian food, it is not unusual to hear the song “That’s Amore” playing. Of course, spontaneous dancing occur—which means I’m up dancing and the boys are laughing. We often play classical music during dishwashing and clean-up; on one occasion, my eldest son offered to Waltz with me! MADE. MY. YEAR!

Some days it’s not so pretty or romantic, but at least we’ve enjoyed a moment to sit across from each other, look one another in the eyes, listen or be heard, and just be together. I realize as I write this, there are those that cringe at the idea of poetry, dancing, and fancy table settings; don’t let these deter you from gathering your family. You do you and make your own family traditions. Whatever you do, give your family the gift of gathering at the table.

Written and photography by Olivia Assaf

We never know how high we are till we are called to rise; and then, if we are true to plan, our statures touch the skies. ~ Emily Dickinson

A Beacon for All Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary

Dale J. Kridlo was on leave from Afghanistan in August of 2010 to attend a christening, where he was scheduled to become a godfather, in Pennsylvania.

He was 33 years old, a father and an Army Specialist. He was four months from finishing his tour and returning to the United States. While attending the ceremony, he was talking to fellow guest, Kelly Percy, and her son Donovan Kozar, age 13. Kelly asked Dale if he was afraid of dying in Afghanistan. Specialist Kridlo answered; “No, I’m not afraid to die. I’m afraid I’ll be forgotten.”

On November 7, 2010 Dale Kridlo was killed in action. Due to the efforts of his mother, Michelle Dale, and a community that respects and reveres veterans, Corporal Kridlo will not be forgotten. Michelle started the local Gold Star Mother’s Group in 2019. Gold Star Associate members can be sisters, wives, fathers, brothers, and husbands. Ultimately, they are people who lost a family member in service.

As Michelle told me; “You build your mind on how you will accept it. You can drown in it, or you can lift yourself up.” She chose to lift herself up, and our community responded and benefited. Veterans, Tony Young (former Vero Beach Mayor) and John Michael Matthews, were instrumental in helping Michelle’s vision and dream come true. As Tony Young says, “The Gold Star Grove and the Cenotaphs are the soul of Memorial Island.”

As you approach Memorial Island, you must cross the Indian River by bridge and on foot. It’s a short journey, but you arrive in a sanctuary that’s seems to be in another time and place. There’s an air of peace and tranquility that I have experienced at the National Cemetery in Mims, FL and Calverton, NY.

The green buttonwood trees guard the Cenotaphs and plaques honoring the fallen. The blue waters of the Indian River provide the sound of waves and the ebb and flow of time. Perhaps it’s an acknowledgement by the men and women that are honored—that they haven’t been forgotten. Their valor, their selflessness, and their love of our country.

Remember Donovan Kozar? He was 13 when his mother asked Dale Kridlo if he was scared to return to Afghanistan. Kozar paid him the ultimate tribute and sign of respect—he joined the Navy.

Veterans Day is a tribute to all veterans that we remember them. Honor this and them, by taking a stroll to Memorial Island or one of our National Cemeteries on 11/11/22.

Written by Susan Harris Photography by Alyssa Carter

PakMail

Shipping gifts this holiday season? Make the experience merry and bright at Pakmail Beachside! We are your one-stop shop when it comes to sending Christmas cheer to your friends and family afar! With your first step in the door, you’ll smell Rio Coco coffee and Cravings cookies out for the holidays!

We provide festive, ready-to-ship boxes and padded mailers for smaller items, saving you the hassle of gift wrapping! And for larger items, did you know we offer gift wrapping services? No more searching for the tape and scissors at home. We’ve got you covered with elegant gift wrapping, complete with a bow on top.

You may be thinking, “It’s much too early to even begin thinking about Christmas gifts!” Our top tip for you this season is to bring in your gifts as soon as you have them ready. The holidays are the busiest time in the shipping world, and you don’t want your gifts arriving after they’re over. We’ll even emboss the package with a “Don’t open until Christmas!” stamp, stirring the anticipation for the lucky ones that get to open it when the time is right.

Our extended holiday hours will begin Monday, November 28th through Tuesday, December 20th. We will be open Monday-Friday from 8:30AM-6PM, and Saturday from 9AM-4PM to meet your holiday needs. So, after you’ve picked out the perfect presents, bring them by our “Elf Packaging Laboratory” to do the rest, and we’ll have you on your way with coffee and Christmas cookies in hand!

Written and photography provided by Taylor Amos

Gift giving is upon us. What better way to give a gift than to get something that also gives back to our planet. The Sunshine State Company is one of those companies that create gifts that are homemade and last a lifetime. All their stuff is American made and small batch products but ship nationwide daily. Your purchase of this brand saves land. They have partnered with Conservation Florida to help preserve Florida.

Their story begins when Seth Daniels & Jacob Zepf were first introduced in 2016 by a mutual friend to create a small batch of handmade leather goods. They had no interest in being the biggest, they just wanted to create the highest quality wallets at affordable prices, all made locally in Orlando. Everything they do is by their four hands. Every product is one of a kind.

Like all great ideas, they come from scratch and are usually thought up over a couple of beers. They are inspired by the City Beautiful, the people they meet, and of course, the Florida lifestyle. The company originally

started as a pop-up on top of a 1978 U.S. military trailer parked on the side of the road. Within one year, they opened their workshop and stockroom at East End Market. They launched their website, kept going to pop-ups, started monthly leather workshops, and the rest is history. Today, they are celebrating over 5 years in business!

To shop or support, follow them on @freehandgoods.

Written and photography by Penny Tranchilla

JOSHUA

BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE

HOMEMADE HOT COCOA

There’s nothing that goes together with the cool onset of winter quite like a delicious cup of homemade hot cocoa. This little cup of warmth will be sure to keep you just as toasty on the inside as you’re feeling on the outside, with only a few small extras tossed into your favorite holiday mug.

2 tbsp cocoa powder 1 cup granulated sugar 2 cups half and half 2 cups milk, divided Splash of vanilla Candy cane Mini marshmallows

Place the cocoa powder and sugar in a medium saucepan; mix together. Turn heat to medium-high. Mix in 1/2 cup milk (it's okay if the mixture is lumpy).

Stir until mixture bubbles. Allow to boil for a minute or two, stirring continually, until no longer grainy.

Mix in the remaining milk and half and half. Add the vanilla. Continue to stir until hot chocolate reaches desired warmness. Serve immediately.

For added fun, don’t forget to add a candy cane. Try experimenting with different extracts and spices to create your unique hot chocolate flavors!

Written by Penny Tranchilla Photography by Katie Azi

The holidays mean lots of toasting, roasting, and holiday cheer! With Thanksgiving and the other holiday celebrations upon us, we thought we’d feature a few of our favorite spirits to accompany those special moments.

Great food and delicious drinks always make for a great time in the land of sunshine! Whether you’re mixing cocktails or prefer to sip on a toddy, these libations are perfect for those little gatherings. For the special hosts or hostesses, pick up a bottle of your favorites to bring as a gift. They will love your thoughtfulness.

As we close out 2022, we are still celebrating our 10th Anniversary of Portfolio It’s hard to believe we’ve been publishing our little lifestyle boutique publication for over 10 years! Every year as we celebrate the holidays, it’s a time to reflect and look back on the previous ones. We’ve come a long way baby! We’re toasting to days gone by and to a bright new year ahead. Happy Holidays!

Written by Penny Tranchilla Photography by Alyssa Carter

AVALINE WINES White, Pinot Noir, Rosé

BEACH BY WHISPERING ANGEL Rosé

American Hero

A Beer for All the Warriors to Farmers

Sebastien Lajeunesse is a Marine. He went to the place where few Americans choose to go: war. “My first deployment was to Afghanistan in 2009. That first deployment, it was rough. It was… excuse my French… hell on earth,” Sebastien recalls. When Sebastien returned home, the trauma of what he experienced was more than he could handle. “I was lost, you can ask my wife about that. I wasn’t myself. We might have been back from the war out there, but there was still a war in my head and heart.”

His PTSD took over and nearly destroyed him until he went to work on his father’s farm. Horticulture therapy saved his life. He started to grow hops. It’s been very therapeutic for Sebastien. The married father of two girls now owns St. Johns Hops here in Florida. And he started his own charity, Warriors to Farmers. Sebastien employs combat veterans to help those who have sacrificed so much for our country. “Just don’t give up hope. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel. You are not alone,” says Sebastien.

When Jesse Robles, the Brewmaster for American Icon Brewery in Vero Beach, met Sebastien, he immediately knew he wanted to work with him. The duo developed American Hero, a brew using hops from Sebastien’s

farm—fresh, organic, and Florida grown. The beer is wet-hopped, meaning it uses the freshest hops. It is a unique designation for any brew. Part of the proceeds from American Hero go to Sebastien’s Warriors to Farmers charity to help struggling combat veterans who just need an outlet. “Veterans like Sebastien here, who give us the opportunity to enjoy our freedom and grow great brew every day,” said Jesse.

“Whenever I work with the hops, I see my hands as I’m fixing the hops vines or picking the cones, and I look at these hands and think, they once held an M-16, trained and meant to destroy, and now, my hands are creating life,” Sebastian fondly states.

AMERICAN HERO ABV 5% | IBU 25 - Brewed with locally sourced hops grown by Veterans, this unique beer is very special. Loaded with bright, citrusy aromas and juicy hop flavor; balanced by a lighter body and smooth finish.

Written and photography provided by American Icon Brewery

Heirloom Blooms

Flowers Are The Art of Nature

My flower farming journey began during the pandemic when I was desperately looking for an outlet to relieve my struggles with lockdowns. I found that relief by turning to a long-time hobby of mine: flower gardening. For years, I would grow flowers for my own enjoyment, never imagining an ability to scale my gardens to a size that would allow me to share them with fellow flower lovers. Through research, I learned the U.S. is the largest consumer of cut flowers, yet we import 64% of them. By the time those flowers reach the consumer, they are many days old and often sprayed with chemicals for preservation. I knew that didn't have to be, and that's when I created Heirloom Blooms. Heirloom Blooms is different from most growers. Almost every flower is started from seed using the soil block method. This method allows me to grow thousands of plants in a very small space, using very few resources. I grow flowers that traditionally wouldn't survive our local climates like

delphiniums, snapdragons, and ranunculus. I learned by planting my flowers in optimal locations within my gardens and starting them at a specific time would allow them to mature within their preferred climate. By working with nature, I can grow almost anything. Currently, I am seeding for flowers that won’t bloom until January.

As I grow my business, my hope is to get my blooms to more people and prove that locally grown flowers are more unique and longer lasting, while being environmentally friendly and competitively priced. You can find my hand-tied bouquets at Schacht Grove and Trimmings. I have subscription services available for the home or office.

Visit HeirloomBloomsFL.com to order your locally grown flowers. I look forward to sharing my flowers with you soon!

Written and photography provided by Jessica Foster

Osceola Organic Family Farm Lettuce Eat

What is a weed? Ralph Waldo Emerson, who was a gardener, may grant us wisdom from his quote; “a weed is simply a plant whose virtues we haven’t yet discovered.”

A staple in restaurants and the most common plant that comes to mind when thinking health, lettuce! A plant discovered in the Mediterranean was grown as a weed to start. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians were amongst the first to be the known cultivators. Egyptians have it placed in their sacred artwork. The Greek father of medicine, Hippocrates, was known to praise lettuce. Romans cultivated romaine, giving it the name “romaine.” Caesar salad anyone? If it were not for these great cultures, a staple food group of ours may just be one of those green leafy plants we walk by and say, “it’s just a weed.”

Looking into the lettuce species (lactuca sativa), the breakdown of sativa gives characteristics of a long stem with narrow leaves, as well as giving a stimulating effect by boosting energy. The lettuce family’s most common relative is the sunflower, a well-known pick-me-up flower. Lettuce gives us that feel good, light on our feet, and flowing energy we all seek.

Lettuce is generally categorized into two types: head lettuce or leaf lettuce. On the nutrition scale, it’s all about identifying color. The darker color leaves contain more vitamins and minerals than the pale varieties. For instance, iceberg lettuce is known to be the least nutritious. Head lettuce is a formed in a tight bunch like cabbage. Leaf lettuce is a more open bloom concept that is typically more flavorful and crisper.

At Osceola Organic Family Farm, your local leafy green farm, we grow a variety of lettuce to provide the most nutritious leaves for your body’s needs.

As we pride ourselves on growing quality, we understand that we eat with our eyes first. Cultivating a variety of mixed greens is as pleasing to the eyes as it is for our body. Growing over 15+ varieties of lettuce, we make sure our blend of daily harvested mixed greens contains color, crisp body, bounce, and great texture. Every variety grown on the farm has its own unique set of nutritional morals, giving the blend a full spectrum yield for our overall eating experience. It is important to us that we don’t just offer you lettuce; we give the opportunity to leave a lasting impression with every bite.

Leaf lettuce grows to maturity in about 30 days. Store bought lettuce is already about 2 weeks old by the time you get it from the time it was harvested. Even if the leaves still have good color in them; it has spent about half the time it takes to reach maturity just to get to you. That means there is a good portion of nutrients that have left the leaf body by the time you consume it. Lettuce goes with “less is more” by saying you may eat less lettuce that has been harvested that day and have more nutrient uptake than eating more store-bought lettuce with less nutrients. Eating locally grown and daily harvested lettuce gives your body the nutrient density our health requires.

“Lettuce” remember, if you ate today, thank a farmer, and support your local farm!

For more information on Osceola Organic Family Farm, follow us on @OsceolaOrganicFarm, check out our new website OsceolaOrganicFarm.org, or stop by the farm at 6980 33rd Street located in Vero Beach.

Written and photography provided by Blake Goodwyn

Frosting

For the Love of Art and Cooking

My cake shop, Frosting, combines my two loves—art and cooking. I have always excelled creatively, with the ability to visualize a project and execute it in my own way. Cooking and flavor profiles come naturally to me, having grown up in a family that gathered in the kitchen. I thrived in my high school’s art program and continued to practice art in the ways that interested me, like makeup, stained glass, and costume design.

On breaks from college, baking became my passion and I watched The Food Network day and night, especially the cake shows. I made my first cake for a family anniversary, and my artistic ability lended itself naturally to the task. I started making cakes and cupcakes locally and it took off, especially after my customers insisted that I open a shop. Thus, Frosting was opened in 2009, when I was just 20 years old.

Over these 13 years in business, I have constantly been challenged creatively. I design, paint, sculpt, etc. using edible mediums like buttercream, chocolate, fondant, royal icing, and sugar candy. This proves challenging, as these mediums are not only time and temperature sensitive, but they require detailed engineering and construction in order to turn dream concepts into reality.

Although I know that my works of art will eventually be eaten and don’t last forever, my joy comes from my creations being a part of people’s most

happy moments. After all, cake is a food for celebration! I have made cakes for families throughout the journey from weddings to baby showers, birthdays to graduations, and all the milestones in between.

My favorite part of what I do is what I call the “Cake Face.” The photo that clients send me when they or their loved one sees their cake surprise and their face is lit with joy and birthday candles. The photo of the baby smashing into their first birthday cake, grinning with a face covered in frosting for the first time. Newlyweds cutting into their 5-tier wedding cake, beaming with love and sharing a kiss. My art truly means something to people and is a part of their lives for years! I have people express that a cake from Frosting was on their “bucket list.” It is especially rewarding and gratifying that my gift can have this impact. I put my all into my craft and my pieces are truly made with love. My love of art. My love of food. My love of family.

Frosting is located at 2915 Cardinal Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32963. For more information, visit FrostingVeroBeach.com, call (772) 234-2915, and follow on @frostingverobeach

Written by Ashlee Wykoff, Owner, Executive Cake Artist at Frosting Photography by Brandee Anthony Media

Hazel House

A New Upholstery Line With Unbeatable Lead Times

’Tis the season to ramp up the cozy! We’re so excited to announce our official trade partnership with Coley Home, the North Carolina based completely custom company with unbeatable lead times. Keeping craftsmanship, sustainability and longevity at the heart of their company, they have created accessible luxury in the furniture industry.

They have recently launched a 10 Day Quick Ship Program which features a special collection of 28 custom pieces that ship out in 10 business days. Their made-to-order collection has beds, swivel chairs and gliders, sofas, dining chairs, side tables, benches, ottomans, pillows and so much more! We haven't been able to promise clients custom furniture “in time for the holidays” in two years.

In addition to their Quick Ship Program, their other pieces ship in 6 weeks. All Coley Home products are high quality, completely custom and handcrafted in the USA. As the first showroom on the Treasure Coast, we invite our customers to sit, feel and design away with our furniture experts.

Written and photography provided by Hazel House

In Search of Local Art Curating Personal Style for Your Home

This month Portfolio magazine is embracing all things artsy! We have a rich cultural scene here in Vero Beach, especially for such a relatively small town. Does your home reflect that? Every once-in-a-while you have to ask yourself: have I been playing it safe with my interior design? Is my decor (gasp) boring? Uninspired? Have I focused too much on utility and not enough on aesthetics? While generally I feel function and form are equally important, it’s easy to get so focused on the day-to-day in our homes that we forget to incorporate things we find visually inspiring.

Now, some people have lives where their house can look like the MoMa. You know those ultra-modern homes with glossy, lacquered surfaces and art everywhere you look? Visually stunning, but maybe not practical for people with say, small children. I mean, can you imagine the fingerprints? Most of us need to split the difference between something of that nature and living inside a beige box. With so many incredible local artists in the area, you could easily adorn any surface you wish in your home with something created by a local artist or artisan.

Consider taking a day to “gallery hop” with a specific area of your home in mind that you haven’t found the right piece for yet. From the lush landscapes of The Highwaymen to sculpture to modernism and beyond, our area is teeming with artistic treasures just ready to be placed in a spot of honor in your home.

If you aren’t sure what style of art is your favorite, consider focusing on the color palette and size of the space you need to fill and working from there. Odds are if you’re anything like me, you’ll head out to shop for one thing and find three more things you like as well, and to justify the purchases, you can just tell yourself you’re doing your part to stimulate the local economy. There are so many incredible local creatives making unique and timeless creations in our midst. Take the time to learn more about them and show your local support!

For more flooring design inspiration, visit ChristinaBruceInteriors.com, or follow on @christinabruceinteriors

Written by Christina Bruce Photography by Christopher Burns

The Audiohouse

Why Home Theater is Good for Your Health

At home, as in life, there are things that are essential to have and there are things that are nice to have. Most people would put Home Theater in the nice to have category, but did you know that there are real health benefits of having a private cinema in your own home?

Movies stimulate the body and mind. Your heartrate goes up and down due to the narrative direction of the movie. Big, emotional moments produce peak physiological activity and strong emotional responses from the audience such as joy, laughter, and tears. The act of watching a movie has been shown to elevate moods and relieve stress.

Three Essential Elements to Get the Most from Your Home Theater

What is essential to make your private home theater that special place? The willing suspension of disbelief. This is what happens when the experience is so good you have forgotten that you are watching a movie.

A Distraction-Free Environment - What makes a private theater special?

Watching a movie is both a focused activity and a shared social engagement. A distraction-free environment away from the disturbances of the household helps the experience deliver long-term benefits for focus, memory, productivity, and overall brain functioning, according to some.

Sound. Real, Accurate Sound - Sound is the stimulus we have been designed to be most sensitive to and impacted by. Sound affects us physically, emotionally, mentally, and behaviorally. The hair-raising effect of a guttural growl in the dark or the nostalgic warmth felt after hearing that first love song of our youth exemplify this fact. The ideal private cinema will recreate the artistic intent of the film. High quality, multi-channel sound is achieved

by using professionally designed and installed speakers, electronics, room acoustics, and seating. No sound bar in the world can deliver anywhere close to the same impact as a purpose driven system.

Image Matters - Compared to a typical flat screen, the depth of color and purity of a higher-end projection TV is profound. Movies are created to be experienced in theatrical settings and scale, and at rigorous performance criteria. This is the experience you can have in your own private home theater with the right projection system, proper seating, and professionally designed sight lines.

About The Audiohouse

The Audiohouse is a design and engineering firm specializing in the creation of high-performance home systems. Owners enjoy sensational performance and unique experiences, a product of careful design, sophisticated engineering, and attention to detail.

The Audiohouse is located at 500 Treasure Coast Plaza, Vero Beach, FL 32960. For more information, visit TheAudioHouse.com, or call (772) 562-3767.

Written and photography provided by Brett Ringeisen

for joy when delighting in a Darling built home. With a focus on consistency, integrity and personalized service, our devoted team will be there for you every moment. Spend more time creating memories with those you love in a home that will last a lifetime. Conveniently located on Vero's barrier island, simply call us...and rest easy knowing your home is Darling built.

Captain Goop Charters Fishing Florida in the Fall

he cooler months are arriving and while Florida is typically known for its mild winters, we can expect to see a change in fish migration and feeding patterns. Just a few degrees in temperature change can have a significant impact on fish and their behavior. Fish are much less active in the winter months as the colder temperatures tend to slow down their metabolism dramatically, but this doesn’t mean it will be a season without fishing. Patience is key when fishing in the cooler months.

T

Slowed metabolism causes fish to move slower and only feed when a minimum amount of effort is required. For anglers who prefer to use artificial bait and lures, this means slowing down your presentation enough to look as natural as possible in these cooler conditions. This will lead to a more productive day on the water.

In the summer months, it’s crucial for anglers to get out on the water as early as possible, whereas in the winter you’re better off waiting until later in the day. Fish become active once the sun rises and has had the chance to heat up the waters. If you are able to find pockets of warm water you will have a better chance of getting a bite. Fish tend to congregate in deeper waters such as holes and channels due to low tides that occur most often in the mornings.

Common species you can expect to find in the winter months include snook, trout, redfish, jack crevalle, flounder, snapper, grouper, and sheepshead. Just about any type of structure will hold fish this time of year which is great for those anglers who prefer to fish piers, docks, and jetties. As far as bait goes, you can expect to see plenty of glass minnows and larger baitfish, such as mullet through the beginning of the year.

Book an inshore or nearshore charter by visiting CaptainGoopCharters.com, or contact Spencer Reilly directly at Spencerfishingvb@gmail.com, or call (772)-696-6025. You may also find him on @captngoop

Written by Riley Nichols | Photography provided by Spencer Reilly

Art in Nature

The Roseate Spoonbill

Ever wonder what those beautiful pink birds are and where they live? This beautiful and graceful species is the roseate spoonbill, Platalea ajaja. This bird is in the ibis and spoonbill family order called Pelecaniformes, which also includes five other families of long-legged wading birds such as egrets, herons, ibises and other large storks that are not migratory.

This particular bird is known for its ‘spoon-shaped’ bill that’s very unique to its breed. Many people wonder why we don’t see them along lakesides or creek beds with so many other wading or shore birds. Well, the roseate spoonbill is an extremely picky eater, or forager to be exact, as they’re looking for an average depth of water of 12.5 cm. Too deep or too shallow makes it very difficult for this bird to successfully and easily find food for themselves and or their young.

Inside their bill are sensory glands that help them to identify a food resource either it be a fish, herbaceous material they would like, even fresh or saltwater shrimp or crustaceans. When the sensory glands detect movement as they’re combing in the shallow marsh areas, they snap their bill closed and toss the food into the back of their throats to swallow.

The greatest of their colonies use to exist near Tavernier Key for decades. Now that their water quality and food resources have changed in the upper Keys, they’ve moved their colonies to many areas throughout Florida. Spoonbills eat shrimp, shrimp eat algae, and the algae make their own red and yellow pigments, called carotenoids. Some scientists believe that the pink coloration that roseate spoonbills acquire as they mature is due to their diet of carotenoid-rich organisms like shrimp. The more they eat, the pinker they get.

During the months of February-May, these birds are roosting and raising their young along with many other herons and egrets on rookeries (islands) where they feel safe from predators and safety in numbers of similar species. Find that special rookery and you will have a delightful time watching these birds fly in with the most beautiful display of colors!

To learn a bit more about these birds, never hesitate in looking them up on Cornell’s website at AllAboutBirds.org. For more information, contact Brian@NativeBirdBoxes.com and follow along on @NativeBirdBoxes

Written and photography by Brian Beckner

Pteropods Angels and Butterflies of the Sea

Winter... ‘tis the season when angel figurines grace tabletops and mantelpieces. Yet, another kind of angel exists, and it swims in the open sea—sea angels.

Called pteropods, sea angels and sea butterflies spend their lives floating in the ocean. With a translucent body and ethereal appearance, these small marine critters are actually snails with some interesting features. Sea angels’ gelatinous bodies lack a shell, and the largest species only reach up to 5 centimeters, while the relatively smaller sea butterflies have an external shell.

Unlike regular land snails with a muscular foot to propel their body, a sea angel’s foot is modified into wings, which they flap to fly through the water.

Despite their angelic appearance, sea angels are actually fierce predators with a voracious appetite. They eat other floating snails, usually the smaller sea butterflies (a close relative). To extract their prey directly out of the shell,

they have specialized feeding structures called buccal cones, equipped with hooks and a toothy radula, which is like a tongue.

Pteropods live around the world in cold and temperate water, generally between the surface down to 2,000 feet. Although, scientists have found them up to 5,291 feet deep.

Recently, researchers discovered that these organisms originated around 130 million years ago, which means they have survived global environmental change in the past, including a period of dramatic global warming that happened 56 million years ago and widespread ocean acidification 66 million years ago. Scientists are hopeful that this means they can continue to adapt to the rapid changes occurring today, like warming and acidification, due to human activity—if they can keep up.

Written by Bethany Augliere

Photography by Alexander Semenov

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The Art of Medicine Functional Treatment Backed by Science

practice of medicine has long been considered both a science and an art. Yet in the age of evidence-based medicine, the art component is often lost. The hallmark of western medicine is the randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study. These randomized controlled trials (RCTs) often seek to examine the effect of manipulating a single pathway or receptor which when blocked, inhibited or enhanced with the right drug should improve the patient’s symptoms, normalize their blood chemistry or mitigate their disease. Studies

the use of a particular drug or procedure

create standards of care which become the guiding light to inform medical treatment.

doctors argue that if proof of efficacy derived from RCTs does not exist, then the treatment is invalid and should not be utilized. However, what may be effective in vitro, in animal models or with a sample of the population does not prove to be successful for all people. Unfortunately, surgeries fail, prescribed medications don’t work as intended or produce intolerable side effects and leave patients searching for solutions.

The art of medicine refers to the application of a treatment to a particular person and observation of the individual response. Rene Descartes appreciated the hybrid status of medicine as science and art. He understood the framework of medical science to be the body in general, however the object of medical art was the individual ailing body. What worked in and for a theoretical body might not work in and for your body. Descartes viewed the individual body as a result of an innate constitution plus the sum total of transactions with the environment and the person’s history of managing those.

Functional Medicine aligns with Descartes ideas on the art of medicine while respecting the science of evidence-based medicine. Functional medicine looks through the lens of systems biology to find the root cause of the patient’s

suffering. We examine the antecedents, triggers and mediators of the person’s symptoms in order to connect the dots of their experience. We explore the genetic and environmental factors that influence disease, in addition to the stressful events, emotional states, infections or toxin exposures that triggered the onset of symptoms. We determine diet and lifestyle factors that may be perpetuating the patient’s condition. We enjoy the freedom to think creatively, rely on anecdotal evidence, order a test from intuition or offer a novel therapeutic. Yet our treatment approaches are indeed backed by science. Every advanced lab test we order or nutritional supplement we prescribe is backed by research demonstrating its use and benefit to the patient.

We lose the opportunity to help people who are suffering when we dogmatically insist that evidence-based medicine is the only acceptable form of health care. Doctors must also understand that non-traditional forms of medicine are not devoid of science. An abundance of research exists outside the traditional box supporting novel approaches to treating many chronic health problems. We have many patients successfully managing their cholesterol without statins and reversing their pre-diabetes with diet, lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements. Strict adherence to flow-chart decision making to follow standards of care can compromise the humanity of medicine by sacrificing the art. Preserving the art of medicine is essential in keeping the patient, their individuality and unique experience at the center of health care where they belong.

Call (772) 564-8383 or visit IndianRiverAcupuncture.com for more information.

Written by Angela King, AP, DOM Photography by Tracey Hocking

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Cleveland Clinic Florida Concierge Medicine is here for you. Our personalized care program provides you with direct access to your dedicated concierge medicine team, day or night. From convenient appointments to customized wellness plans to coordination of treatment, our concierge medicine team works for you. Now available at our Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Stuart, and Vero Beach locations.

Mindful Meditations

Home is Within

As I observe, listen, and learn about people’s experiences and my own, I find it more and more apparent how we are all seeking to feel at home. We want to be at peace, anchored, safe, and loved. This is a process that begins with ourselves, and it is always a work in progress. There is no magic solution or wand, and well, it takes practice, commitment, devotion, and accepting all of it. You don’t have to love it, but the comfort and discomfort are both important elements and part of the experience.

There is no good or bad, and if we approach things with curiosity, we quickly learn that we suffer less or not at all, embrace more, and it makes shifting our perspective easier, simpler, more accessible. This doesn’t mean challenges disappear, it just means we are more able to flow with things. When we cultivate home within us, nothing can shake us. We organically change, adjust the sails, and the path becomes less rocky. Again, not because there are no rocky patches, but because we have chosen to perceive things differently.

We live in the knowing we are at home in ourselves. We are at peace, we feel deeply anchored from within and we provide ourselves the safety and love that we so long for. We are deeply steeped in the seat of our souls. We are home.

For more information and to inquire about 1:1 offerings and workshops, contact Vicky Dominguez by email at bymeditacionesdeunaloca@gmail.com. Follow Soulfully: Inner Work & Meditation on @bymeditacionesdeunaloca.

Written by Vicky Dominguez | Photography by Frank Park

Client 1st Advisory Group The Downturn in Perspective

sudden fear of missing out on the next upward movement and scrambling to cover their short positions.

If you think that anyone can successfully time the exits and entrances in a way that would avoid downturns and capture upturns, then stop and think for a moment, and try to name a famous, successful market timer.

If such a person existed, he or she would not only be right at the top of your mind, but also fabulously wealthy. The fact that nobody comes to mind, coupled with the fact that the most successful investors of the past have consistently preached a buy and hold approach, suggests that people who have the fortitude to stay invested when stocks are on sale tend to come out the other side with higher account balances.

This can be seen on a historical return chart, which not only shows the steady, incremental rise in stock values due to the daily efforts of millions of workers in tens of thousands of companies, but also how unpredictably the timers and traders can move the markets in the short term. Their impact is volatility and anxiety, not consistent wealth-building returns.

Sources:

By now you know that market timers and traders were spooked once again in recent weeks, causing a downward ripple across the U.S. investment markets.

It’s not easy to tell what startled them. The financial press told us that the reversal was brought on by the release of the Consumer Price Index report, but one wonders how, at this point, a month-to-month continuation of inflation is much a surprise. And the report was hardly dramatic; the CPI was up 0.1% from July, after no change from the prior month.

Even though the markets dropped just over 4% in one day, when the dust cleared, the S&P 500 index was still only 0.33% below where it had been the previous Wednesday. Other signs are definitely less gloomy. Gas and energy prices have been dropping, the employment rate has been consistently high, and economists now believe that higher wages have become the top driver of inflation—which cannot really be bad news for consumer spending and the overall health of the economy. Indeed, retail sales increased 0.3% in August, which took many economists by surprise.

All of that said, the U.S. economy does seem to be experiencing a slowdown that could (emphasize could) lead to a recession. The problem for investors, though, is that the stock market tends to be a leading indicator of economic slowdowns, rather than something that follows on—meaning that, in the past, markets have recovered during recessions as investors start to see the light at the end of the tunnel. This makes predicting future market movements, using economic data, virtually impossible.

And, of course, predicting anything based on a startling of the herd of market timers and active traders is patently impossible. It’s natural to look at returns this year and want to stop the bleeding, but that would mean selling and taking the risk that the markets will suddenly startle in the opposite direction as traders and market timers experience a

• https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-09-13/ us-inflation-tops-forecasts-cementing-odds-of-big-fed-hike

• https://www.advisorperspectives.com/commentaries/2022/ 09/15/recession-signals-abound-as-fed-hikes-rates • https://www.macrotrends.net/2324/sp-500-historical-chart-data

Craig Phillips CFP, AIF, CeFT | Sharon Bastide

4445 HWY A1A, Suite 239, Vero Beach, FL 32963 (772) 231-3122 x C1AG.com

Client 1st Advisory Group is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Offices in Clearwater and Vero Beach, Florida and Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Written and photography provided by Client 1st Advisory Group

S&P 500 Index - 90 Year Historical Chart

eat, shop, play the locals

LIFESTYLE, ART & FASHION

LILY PAD

3121 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-7405

LPL CREATIONS

1401 Highway A1A, Suite 210 Vero Beach, FL (772) 559-0395

LPLCreations.com

PAK MAIL

505 Beachland Boulevard, Suite #1 Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-0021

PakMail.com

RIVERSIDE THEATRE

3250 Riverside Park Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-6990

RiversideTheatre.com

SALT & SPURS

3055 Cardinal Drive, Suite 107 Vero Beach, FL

Howdy@SaltnSpurs.com SaltnSpurs.com

SASSY BOUTIQUE

3365 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-3998

SassyBoutique.com

SEA GLASS BOUTIQUE

3500 Ocean Drive

Vero Beach, FL (772) 774-4965

VeroBeachHotelAndSpa.com/ Sea-Glass-Boutique

ST. EDWARDS SCHOOL

1895 St. Edwards Drive

Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-4136

StEds.org

THREADS BOUTIQUE AND CONSIGNMENT

1875 14th Avenue Vero Beach, FL (772) 217-2871

ThreadsBoutiqueand Consignment.com

VERNON SCOTT

818 Beachland Boulevard Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-3733

VernonScott32963.com

VERO BEACH MUSEUM OF ART

3001 Riverside Park Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-0707 VBMuseum.org

WATERCOLOR DESIGNS (772) 257-5335

the spread

FOOD & DRINK

AMERICAN ICON BREWERY 1133 19th Place Vero Beach, FL (772) 934-4266 AmericanIconBrewery.com

BEACH BITES

1840 Wabasso Beach Road Vero Beach, FL (772) 581-0700 BeachBites.Biz

CHELSEA’S ON CARDINAL 3201 Cardinal Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-8300 ChelseasOnCardinal.com

COBALT RESTAURANT 3500 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 469-1060

CobaltRestaurant.com

COUNTRYSIDE CITRUS 3300 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-8299

CountrysideCitrus.com

EL SID TAQUERIA 3300 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-8299

FROSTING

2915 Cardinal Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-2915 EatFrostingCupcakes.com

GRIND AND GRAPE

925 Bougainvillea Lane Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-5536 GrindandGrape.com

HEATON’S 3500 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-5666

CobaltRestaurant.com

KOUNTRY KITCHEN WITH LOVE 1749 Old Dixie Highway Vero Beach, FL (772) 567-6733

OSCEOLA ORGANIC FARM 6980 33rd Street Vero Beach, FL (772) 567-1530 OsceolaOrganicFarm.com

PETERSON GROVES & NURSERY 3375 66th Avenue Vero Beach, FL (772) 562-6900

THE WAVE KITCHEN & BAR 3244 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 410-0100

TRATTORIA DARIO 1555 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-1818 TrattoriaDario.com

the abode

HOME & GARDEN

ABBATE TILE AND MARBLE 1136 Old Dixie Highway Vero Beach, FL (772) 569-9113

Abbate.net

AIELLO LANDSCAPE (772) 563-0071

AielloLandscape.com

BROWN TALLEY GROUP

PREMIER ESTATE PROPERTIES 675 Beachland Boulevard Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-5148

BrownTalleyGroup.info

CATHY CURLEY

DALE SORENSEN REAL ESTATE 3206 Cardinal Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 559-1359

CHRISTINA BRUCE INTERIORS (772) 202-8242

Christina@ChristinaBruceInteriors.com ChristinaBruceInteriors.com

DARLING CONSTRUCTION 622 Beachland Boulevard Vero Beach, FL (772) 978-6502

DarlingBuilt.Business.site

DAVID COX CONSULTING 2044 14th Avenue, Suite 24 Vero Beach, FL (772) 564-0540

Davidcoxconsulting.com

DECORATIVE ARTS

1923 Old Dixie Highway Vero Beach, FL (772) 563-0040

DecorArtsInc.com

ELITE LANDSCAPE LIGHTING 1607 91st Court Vero Beach, FL (772) 933-9349

EliteLandscapeLights.com

HAZEL HOUSE

1880 Old Dixie Highway Vero Beach, FL (772) 213-3024

HazelHouseVero.com

HURYN CONSTRUCTION

1902 Wilbur Avenue Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-4130

HurynConstruction.com

ISLAND BREEZE KITCHENS (772) 783-4466

IslandBreezeKitchens.com

JETSON TV & APPLIANCE 1231 20th Street Vero Beach, FL (772) 567-3200 ShopJetson.com

JOHN’S ISLAND REAL ESTATE COMPANY 1 Johns Island Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-0900

JohnsIslandRealEstate.com

LANDSCAPE CONCEPTS 2425 15th Avenue Vero Beach, FL (772) 794-0622 LConceptsofVero.com

LAFFERTY PREMIER PROPERTIES 3096 Cardinal Drive, Suite 1A Vero Beach, FL (772) 562-9700

LIFESTYLE SOLAR POWERED HOMES 3453 W. New Haven Avenue Melbourne, FL (321) 727-8188 BuildingALifestyle.com

LISA PYDEN PREMIER ESTATE PROPERTIES 675 Beachland Boulevard Vero Beach, FL (772) 532-2908 LisaPyden@PremierEstateProperties.com

O’DARE BOGA GROUP ONE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY 1401 S A1A, Suite 101 Vero Beach, FL (772) 444-7070 ODareBogaGroup. OneSothebysRealty.com

SURFACES DESIGN STUDIO 3960 US-1 Vero Beach, FL (772) 778-2622 SurfacesDesignStudio.com

THE AUDIOHOUSE 500 Treasure Coast Plaza Vero Beach, FL (772) 562-3767

the explored

NATURE, TRAVEL & SPORTING

CAPTAIN GOOP CHARTERS Captain Spencer Reilly (772) 696-6025 SpencerFishingVB@Gmail.com CaptainGoopCharters.com

CORPORATE AIR 3450B Airport W Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 562-1199 Corporate-Air.com

COSTA D’ESTE BEACH RESORT & SPA 3244 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 562-9919

ELITE AIRWAYS (877) 393-2510 Res.EliteAirways.net

MOUNTIAN AIR (828) 682-8200 Info@MountainAir.com

PURSUIT BOATS 3901 St. Lucie Boulevard Fort Pierce, FL (772) 465-6006 PursuitBoats.com

the nourished

HEALTH, WEALTH & HAPPINESS CLEVELAND CLINIC INDIAN RIVER HOSPITAL 1000 36th Street Vero Beach, FL (772) 567-4311

CLIENT 1st ADVISORY GROUP 4445 Highway A1A, Suite 239 Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-3122

C|SPA AT COSTA D’ESTE 3244 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 410-0101

FACES-THE SKINCARE LOUNGE 1973 Old Dixie Highway Vero Beach, FL (772) 492-6196

FERRES DENTISTRY 2980 9th Street SW, Suite 102 Vero Beach, FL (772) 567-1011 DorisFerres.com

FLORIDA CANCER SPECIALISTS 3730 7th Terrace, Suite 101 Vero Beach, FL (772) 567-2332

INDIAN RIVER ACUPUNCTURE & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 1345 36th Street, Suite H Vero Beach, FL (772) 564-8383 IndianRiverAcupuncture.com

LEVEL YOGA: ON CARDINAL 3055 Cardinal Drive, Suite #106 Vero Beach, FL (772) 365-4407 LevelYogaStudio.com

LEVEL YOGA: ON THE POINTE 29 Royal Palm Pointe, Suite #2 Vero Beach, FL (772) 365-4407 LevelYogaStudio.com

OCEAN DRIVE PLASTIC SURGERY 5070 Highway A1A, Suite A Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-3700

OceanDrivePlasticSurgery.com

STUDIO GABRIEL SALON, SPA & BOUTIQUE 2855 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-8105 StudioGabriel.com

THE KANNER GROUP, LLC AT RAYMOND JAMES 625 Beachland Boulevard, Suite #2 Vero Beach, FL (772) 205-2141

VERO BEACH FLORIST 1850 43rd Avenue, Suite C3 Vero Beach, FL (772) 999-5418 VeroBeachFlorist.net

VERO FITNESS 1060 6th Avenue Vero Beach, FL (772) 380-4188 VeroFitness.fit

WHITE ORCHID SPA 3500 Ocean Drive Vero Beach, FL (772) 231-1133 WhiteOrchidSpa.info

Photography by Debby Hudson

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