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County tells city it can’t help fund dune project Page 6
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TO ADVERTISE CALL MARTINE FECTEAU 772.696.2004 MARK SCHUMANN 772.696.5233
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T H U R S D A Y
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Dining for dollars Property Tax Increase (2)
New fundraising trend has donors hosting events in their homes Page 28
Walk raises awareness Local teen organizes first Vero event to help those dealing with epilepsy Page 18
STAFF PHOTO
Muscle cars were on display for a McKee Garden fundraiser this past weekend. Page 24
Are you owed unclaimed money?
Vero woman can help you find missing cash Page 22
These ladies can skate Vero Beach team battles in the rough and tumble world of roller derby Page 37
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Tourist tax dollars have in recent years made up only a small portion of the total spent on beach restoration. In fact, over the past six years the county received more than $27 million in state and federal grants to pay for beach restoration. For the foreseeable future, state and federal grants as a source of funding for beach restoration is a well that appears to have run dry. With far fewer dollars available for beach and dune restoration projects, the county recently told the city it cannot afford to help with the $93,000 dune restoration project to begin soon at Conn Beach. According to county budget documents, beach restoration funds are to be used for projects including, “dune
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Administered by the county and overseen by the Tourist Development Council and the Beach and Shores Preservation Advisory Committee, tourist tax revenue has also helped to pay for millions of dollars in beach and dune restoration. Most of tourism development efforts paid for with tourist tax receipts are carried out by the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber contracts with the county to serve as the area’s tourist development agency. During the last fiscal year just under $550,000 in tourist tax receipts went toward beach restoration projects. Tourist development received another $550,000, with approximately $336,000 used to pay down the Dodgertown bonds.
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For more than two decades Indian River has exercised the option to collect a sales tax on short terms rentals and hotel and motel stays. Originally set at 3 percent, the county now assesses a 4 percent tourist tax, also known as the bed tax. This tax is a source of more than $1 million a year in revenue. This money goes to help fund beach and dune restoration, tourist development efforts, and to pay off bonds used to purchase Dodgertown. One and-a-half cents of the fourcent tourist tax is dedicated to the county’s beach restoration fund. Another one and-a-half cents goes to tourism development, with the remaining cent used to pay for the pur-
chase of Dodgertown. To some extent, the level of tourist tax receipts, which fluctuates from year to year, is reflective on the national and world economy. The amount of money collected from this tax each year is also seen as a measure of the effectiveness of local tourist development efforts. For example, “bed tax” receipts fell 18 percent following fiscal year 2007/2008. That year the economy took a nosedive as a result of the nationwide mortgage crisis and the resulting real estate crash. Quite simply, as home values fell and the stock market tanked, fewer people could afford to travel. Local tourism is rebounding, though. In fact, bed tax receipts have increased the past two years.
F E B R U A R Y
BY MARK SCHUMANN VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
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Local News Tourism tax dollars help to promote Indian River County
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4
Tourist Tax Receipts 2000000
N E W S W E E K L Y
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LOCAL NEWS
1500000
1000000
500000
0 City
05/06 County
TOURISM TAX
07/08
08/09
09/10
10/11
Total a result of recent storm damage. Given that more tourist tax dollars are collected within the city than the county, Councilman Jay Kramer has questioned why all the beach resto-
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FROM PAGE 3
restoration and to mitigate storm damage.” The city contends the dunes at Conn Beach need to be restored as
06/07
“Comprehensive Care, Uncompromising Service”
CALL NOW FOR OUR $97 NEW PATIENT SPECIAL! 0% INTEREST FINANCING AVAILABLE
ration money has been dedicated in recent years to projects in the county. Proponents of using more of the beach restoration funds for dune projects within the city are also quick to point out that as a percentage of total receipts, the total tourist taxes collected within the city has risen from 33 percent to 54 percent since 2005.
Another one and-a-half cents of the tourist tax is dedicated to tourist development efforts. The table on page six itemizes how tourism development money will be spent in the current 2011/2012 fiscal year. More than $400,000 of a total budget of $638,250 will be used to promote CONTINUES ON PAGE 6
Shifting Trends In Tourist Tax Receipts Vero Beach
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LOCAL NEWS
TOURISM TAX FROM PAGE 4
Indian River County as a tourist destination. According to Chamber President Penny Chandler, her organization’s focus is “heads on beds.” In addition to investing in traditional marketing channels, such as print and online advertising, the Chamber’s tourism committee has in recent years diversified its efforts to include FAM, or familiarization tours, for travel in-
dustry professionals. According to Chandler, FAM tours are an effective way to provide a personal experience to someone who will “sell” Indian River County. The Chamber is also focusing on niche travel markets, like destination weddings, and eco-tourism. The explosion in the popularity of social media has led to more of an effort to promote Indian River County online, including the development of a mobile app.
Neurosurgery
Tourism Development 2011/2012 Budget
Chamber of Commerce Tourism Development
$404,425
Cultural Council of IRC
$36,325
Dodgertown Maintenance
$60,500
Treasure Coast Sports Commission
$125,000
including minimally invasive and complex spinal surgery
$12,000
Vero Heritage, Inc. Fabio Roberti, M.D., FAANS
B E A C H
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Total
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V E R O
Board certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery, Dr. Fabio Roberti specializes in neurosurgery, including minimally invasive and complex spinal surgery.
Fabio Roberti, M.D.
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LOCAL NEWS
Social services and the homeowners who pay for them BY MILT THOMAS VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
(Editor’s note: This is the second in a series of articles exploring and explaining the economic challenges that face our community. In this installment we look at how the soft local economy puts pressure on residents to pay for services with prop-
erty taxes.) Last week we presented the fact that our local economy is actually two different economies – one that represents our image as one of the ten richest counties in Florida with a great quality of life, and the other, a land of limited opportunity with families struggling to survive,
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much less enjoy a quality of life. According to this year’s draft report of the Indian River County Health Department’s needs assessment report, the Gini Coefficient, an international measure of income inequality, when applied to Florida shows Indian River County as having the third highest level in the state. As someone prominent in local government once said, “Vero Beach is like a banana republic, with a wealthy class on one hand and the people who do their yard work on the other.”
Although our economy is not that bifurcated, when we have such a great quality of life on one hand and at the same time 60 percent of the county’s elementary school children require free or reduced cost lunches, we need to examine why such a situation exists in Indian River County. If for no other reason, we need to examine it because this is a situation that affects all of us as taxpayers – someone has to pay for the growing cost of social services like Medicaid, subCONTINUES ON PAGE 10
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sidized housing and school lunches. When the media trumpets how we are making progress achieving an 11.4 percent unemployment rate, it is no cause to put up a “mission accomplished” banner. That is currently the sixth highest unemployment rate in the state of Florida and comes at a time when we are in peak season for tourism and citrus. Predictably, the rate will fall until the winter season ends, then start creeping back up again as it does every year. It is never better than sixth highest in the state and often worse. With the relationship between unemployment and need for social services, we need to look at our employment base for clues on how to solve both problems. First, a look at the county’s top 20 employers is quite revealing. The two largest employers are our school system and Indian River
County, both tax-supported. Third is the Indian River Medical Center, which is partially tax supported. Eight of the remaining companies on the list either employee large numbers of part-time employees or don’t share that information (three companies). It is interesting to note that of the four companies with no part-time employees, three of them do the majority of their business outside Indian River County. More about that later. The term “seasonal” unemployment sounds transitory, but in our county we should keep in mind that the off-season is more than half a year. Two of our major industries, tourism-related retail and citrus, are seasonal and employ part-time workers, usually without benefits. Even full-time employees in small retail businesses do not have insurance because their employers can’t afford it. Again referring to the Health Department draft report, almost 21 percent of the In-
dian River County population is uninsured, 28 percent among the 18-64 age group. That has a direct bearing on Medicaid costs. There are more than 12,000 people registered for Medicaid in this county, just under 13 percent of the population. Even more disturbing, the latest figures from Donna Fabean, director of Women’s Health, reveal that 67 percent of babies born in this county are paid for by Medicaid, a marked increase over the past few years. When we examine the property tax base for Indian River County, we can see more clearly where the taxes come from to pay for these social costs. According to the 2010 overview of property values from the Property Appraiser’s office, the total value of taxable parcels in this county is $16.5 billion. Of that, $14.2 billion is residential and $1.5 billion is commercial (another $1.4 billion is listed as “government non-taxable). After factoring
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out economic incentives to homeowners (homestead exemption and Save Our Homes are just that) and adding in the extra tax burden on businesses, we are still looking at homeowners assuming the greatest share of cost for social services. So, Indian River County has two major problems that must be addressed: first, a local economy that generates too many low wage, no benefit jobs, resulting in an increased need for social services to make up the difference; and two, the tax burden on homeowners who must pay for those increased social services. The question becomes, what can we do about it? One important answer has been provided by economist William Fruth of Policom Corporation, a Stuart-based research company. His first analysis of the Indian River County economy was completed in 2001, paid for by the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce and presented at Indian River Community (now State) College. His research uncovered a third problem contributing to our seasonal economy, which he illustrated by comparing an economy to a bucket of water. He said our community’s wealth is generated by tourism, citrus, government transfers like social security and Medicare, as well as pensions and investment earnings. Back in 2001 he compared this wealth to a pail of water. “There are several spigots pumping water (wealth) into the pail. At the same time, the bucket has holes in it that drain wealth out of the community.” The holes Fruth refers to are businesses that drain money from the community. For instance, when you shop at Walmart, very little of the money spent by shoppers actually stays in the community, primarily employee wages. Gas is expensive, but only about three percent of every gallon of gas you pump into your car stays with the station owner. Couple that with the CONTINUES ON PAGE 12
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fact that most businesses in Indian River County, such as retail stores, banks, construction and local government, depend on the wealth that already exists in our economy. They don’t add to it, they merely move existing money around. As Fruth concludes, “Your economy is too dependent on retail and service. You need more spigots.” An example of a business that adds wealth to the community is Piper Aircraft. Piper takes relatively inexpensive raw materials and converts them into very expensive airplanes. Because they are manufactured in Vero Beach and sold around the world, most of the money generated from an aircraft sale stays right here in Vero Beach. Manufacturing airplanes requires a skilled workforce and skilled workers make much more money than unskilled workers. In Indian River County alone, the average wage for
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manufacturing workers in 2010 was more than $45,000 (per Agency for Workforce Innovation, Labor Market Statistics 2011), while the average wage in retail was just under $25,000. Chances are, the manufacturing worker has insurance and owns a home. Chances are, the retail worker has no insurance and rents an apartment. Of course, Piper is a one-of-a-kind example. But there are several dozen manufacturing companies in the county much smaller than Piper, but many paying quality salaries with benefits. These companies do business with other local companies that employ people. These employees spend their paychecks locally and pay their taxes. Everybody wins. So, the question taxpaying homeowners in Indian River County should be asking is: where do you find such companies and why don’t we have more of them? The answer is not so simple and will be covered in the next article of this series.
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and maintains a position as a center of major transportation arteries. Alexander’s final 1,300 miles over 12 days will wind through Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Those interested in helping to sponsor Alexander’s ride may visit online at www.TheRidetoBeatHunger.org. Treasure coast residents who
want to partner with Alexander in the project may donate per mile to help him reach his $50,000 goal. Donations may be made to Indian River community Foundation for “The Ride to Beat Hunger” and be sent to P.O. Box 650126; Vero Beach, FL 32965. For more information, call Alexander at (772) 494-5009.
V E R O B E A C H N E W S W E E K L Y
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Committee members of The Ride to Beat Hunger” met at the Harvest Outreach Center and include (left to right) Earle Kirkbride, Maureen Labadie, Larry Labadie, Ben Deiorio , Don Croteau, Kristen Sposato, Patrick Jordan, Earle Beasley and Rev. Scott Alexander.
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2007 raising $20,000 for a favorite charity of mine,” Alexander said. “La Clinica Del Pueblo is a free health clinic for recent Latino immigrants in the Washington, D.C. area. I love riding across this vast and beautiful nation of ours on behalf of a cause I believe in – combating hunger here on the Treasure Coast and around the world.” “The Old Town City” of Cottonwood, Ariz., will be a stop on Day 4 of Alexander’s schedule. With a population of 5,900 and located between Prescott and Sedona, Cottonwood is named for the trees that grow along the Verde River. In the early 1900s, Cottonwood was known for having the best bootleg liquor within hundreds of miles. After riding through New Mexico and Texas, Alexander will stop in Chickasaw, Okla., a community of 16,000 with a strong Native American heritage which is home to actor/ comedian Cleavon Little. On Day 19, Alexander will arrive in the small community of Brinkley, Ark., which has played an important role in the region’s rail transportation
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VERO BEACH -- Rev. Scott Alexander, minister of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Vero Beach, continues to prepare for his monthlong, 3,300 mile, 115 mile-per-day bike ride across America to beat hunger. The ride begins Sunday, April 22 in Costa Mesa, Calif. and ends on Tuesday, May 22 at a welcome home rally at Waldo’s at the Driftwood Resort in Vero Beach. His goal is to raise $50,000 to be split evenly between the Harvest Food and Outreach Center of Vero Beach and Stop Hunger Now, an international organization which provides meal packets in hunger-stricken regions of the world. Alexander has chosen the crosscountry route with the assistance of America by Bicycle, a fully-supported bicycle touring company. He will join other cyclists touring for pleasure or charity and will ride along planned scenic routes. “I am a veteran charity cyclist, having ridden across America with American by Bicycle in 2003 and
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Minister hopes to raise $50,000 in bike ride across America
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County will not provide funds to city for dune restoration BY IAN LOVE VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
VERO BEACH -- Indian River County Administrator Joe Baird has responded to the City of Vero Beach request for financial help for the $93,200 Conn Beach dune restoration project, saying “at this time County staff does not recommend funding this expenditure from County sources.” The city is still seeking permits for the project which will move as much as 7,200 tons of sand to restore the dune, including filling in a relatively small section under the south portion of the popular boardwalk. The section of the dune being restored runs from the south end of the boardwalk to just north of Conn Way. Baird said in his letter dated Jan. 27: “The County funds dune resto-
ration on an emergency basis for the unincorporated areas of the County. This work has been funded through (the Municipal Service Taxing Unit) Fund and the Beach Restoration Fund in the past. Dune restoration work within the City of Vero has been funded by the City previously. A request for County funding does not result in a reduction of expenses. Rather, this only represents a cost shift to the County.” Vero Beach City Manager Jim O’Connor said the city has no choice but to go forward with the project, but remains hopeful that there might be some funds the county can put toward the project. “We are going to proceed because we have a timing issue with turtle nesting season,” he said. “We will also pursue other sources of fund-
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ing, possibly going through the Tourism Board. Baird’s response also noted that the county’s mayors have put in a funding request to conduct a study to evaluate the potential of artificial reefs in preventing beach erosion. “This project was not budgeted and the request was received mid-year. The first phase of this study carries an estimated cost of $150,000 to $250,000. This unbudgeted expense will need to be funded from the same sources as the City’s new request if approved by the Board. As you can see, the County has considerable budget constraints on this funding. County staff can sympathize with the City’s efforts to fund this and other City funding responsibilities. Unfortunately, County staff does not recommend funding this expenditure
for approval to the Board of County Commissioners,” Baird wrote. O’Connor pointed out that part of the tourism taxes that are collected are earmarked for dune restoration work and that Vero Beach businesses paid more than half the money generated in 2010-2011. “Vero Beach paid in $297,638 and from Indian River County it is $281, 340,” he has noted. The dune was washed away from the heavy rains that soaked the area last fall. The work will be done in segments, with the portions of beach shut down where equipment is being operated. If the county does not provide money toward the restoration, O’Connor said the cash would come out of the General Fund balance or other cost savings the city is able to realize.
Law firm working on FPL deal has billed city $123,000 thus far VERO BEACH -- The law firm working for the city on the possible sale of the city’s electric system to Florida Power & Light Co. has been paid more than $123,000, or just more than a quarter of the $485,000 the city has budgeted for legal services and associated costs. The Edwards Wildman Palmer LLP firm of West Palm Beach has billed the city nearly $136,500, but the city is holding 10 percent back, according to a summary report prepared for City Council members by Finance Director Cindy Lawson. As part of the city’s agreement with the law firm, it will not have to pay that additional 10 percent if the deal is not consummated. In August, the City Council selected the firm, then known as Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP, to act as its transactional attorney in the deal. The firm is charging a blended rate of $500 per hour for its primary attorneys, $350 for junior associates and $230 for legal assistants. The firm has said the rates charged the city represent a discount from their normal charges. The $485,000 the city has allotted for legal help includes the cost of a company retained by the firm to value the city’s current wholesale power contracts. The legal costs are being paid from the city’s electric fund, which is made up of money collected from electric customers. “I feel very comfortable that they are staying on track,” said City Manager Jim O’Connor of the firm’s billings. The bills that have come in so far are below the estimated costs for various phases of the deal. For example, the firm estimated that due diligence, or examination and evaluation, of the utility could run $100,000, but so far have
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N E W S W E E K L Y
VERO BEACH — The King of the Court Men’s Doubles Tennis Tournament will be held at Riverside Racquet Complex at noon on Saturday, Feb. 18.
B E A C H
King of the Court Tennis Tournament set for Feb. 19
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INDINA RIVER COUNTY -- Political donors, most notably those in the 32963 zip code, gave the majority of the money raised to the Mitt Romney presidential campaign in the period between October to December of last year. Romney donors gave $39,948 to his campaign - well above the $16,699.90 sent to the coffers of Newt Gingich. Romney raised $33,138 of his total from 49 residents in Vero Beach within the 32963 ZIP code. President Barack Obama collected just $5,548 from from October to December of last year. Indian River County donations to presidential candidates for the threemonth period were as follows: Mitt Romney, $39,848; Newt Gingrich, $16,699.90; Herman Cain, $11,934; Barack Obama, $5,548; Rick Perry, $5,300; Ron Paul, $2,890.47; Michele Bachmann, $1,050; Jon Huntsman, $500; Fred Karger, $300; Buddy Roemer, $100; Total, $84,170.37.
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Indian River County raises $39,848 for Romney campaign in last quarter
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VERO BEACH -- The Old Vero Ice Age Sites Committee received permission from the Vero Beach City Council and the Indian River Farms Water Control District to allow further excavation at the site where The Old Vero Man was discovered in 1915. The next challenge for the committee is to come up with the estimated $150,000 needed to begin the project which will focus its efforts on the land between Aviation Boulevard and U.S. 1 and includes a 300-foot right of way along the main canal. The Vero Man site is only one of two sites in North America where Ice Age human skeletons and animal bones have been found in the same place, making the find significant. Around 1915, dredging at this site unearthed human remains possibly 13,000 years old, along with the remains of now extinct animals including mammoth, mastodon, saber-tooth cat and ancient species of tapir, horse and sloth. Barbara Purdy, a retired anthropology professor from the University of Florida, said that Florida State geologist Elias Sellards dated the bones, which became known as the Vero Man, at more than 10,000 years old. In 2005, Purdy and archaeological researcher Thomas Stafford did a preliminary dig at the site, which is near the county administration building on 27th Street. Committe member Susan Grandpierre said funding for excavation could be expensive, with at least $150,000 needed before any digging could begin. If money is raised, the dig could start as early as October.
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Committee clears hurdles to excavate for fossils near municipal airport
F E B R U A R Y
billed about $23,000. O’Connor said the only phase completed so far is the initial phase that involved some preliminary work, including data collection. The city had budgeted $50,000 for that work and actual billings amounted to $42,390.
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Thunder on the Beach at fairgrounds this weekend INDIAN RIVER COUNTY -- The Thunder on the Beach Pow Wow comes to the Indian River County Fairgrounds from Feb. 17-19, featuring Native American crafts, food, music and more. Last year, 10,000 attendees enjoyed the spectacle as Native Americans representing tribes from all over the U.S. came to delight visitors with dancing in tribal regalia, singing, drumming and storytelling. Activities include primitive native encampments to understand what life was like before the first Europeans arrived, bull whip, fast draw, knife throwing and archery demonstrations, a story telling circle, an exhibit of Treasure Coast birds of prey and alligator adventures. In the
arena, there will be non-stop performances by noted Native American singers, dancers and musicians. The headliner is renowned Native American flute player and recording artist, J.J. Kent. The arena will also feature 30 artist and vendor exhibits including Native American-made clothing, jewelry, leather goods, art, musical instruments, dolls, handcrafted tools and weapons, recordings, and more. An auction of items donated by vendors will also be held. Friday is Kids Day, a field trip opportunity for all Indian River County school kids with fun activities from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Last year more than 1,000 kids attended. The Pow Wow officially opens to the
PHOTO SUPPLIED
More than 10,000 people attended Thunder on the Beach last year. public at 3 p.m. and will go on until 10 p.m. The event starts at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and kids 6-12, no charge for kids under six. For more in-
formation, including lodging and camping, check out the website at www.thunderonthebeachpowwow. net, on Facebook (“Thunder on the Beach”), or call event organizer, Dona Chesser at 772-567-1579.
FROM PAGE 15
Check in is at 11:30 a.m., but only pre-registration applications will be accepted. The deadline for applying is Feb. 15. The first 12 teams to register will be in the tournament. The fee is $11 per person. Applications are located at Leisure Square (3705 16th St.), Vero Beach Community Center (2266 14th Ave.) and Riverside Racquet Complex Tennis Pro-Shop at Riverside Park (350 Dahlia Lane) in Vero Beach. There will also be a Queen of the Court tournament on March 10 as well as a Vero Beach Seniors Tournament for those 65 and older. For more information about the tennis tournaments contact Gaby Dwyer, tennis supervisor at Riverside Racquet Pro-Shop, (772) 231-4787.
Vero Beach High School to present Oliver! VERO BEACH — To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of British novelist Charles Dickens, Vero Beach High School will present the family musical “Oliver!” on Feb. 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 19 at 2 p.m. in the Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center. “Oliver!” the musical is based on the classic novel “Oliver Twist” by Dickens with music, lyrics and book by Lionel Bart and is produced with special arrangement through Tams-Witmark Music Library. The VBHS production of “Oliver!” includes more than 100 Indian River County students and is directed by Dee Rose Imbro, with choreography by Andrew Currie of Dance Space and music direction by Gregory Harris. The production will also include a live orchestra. Tickets are $10 for the upper level and $12 for the lower level and are on sale now at the box office. Call (772) 564-5537 to order tickets over the phone CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
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Team Visser was one of the largest teams to participate in the walk. In the center is Randy Visser and his mother, Paige.
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St. Edward’s student puts on Vero’s first epilepsy walk BY MICHAEL BIELECKI VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
VERO BEACH -- Over 250 people took part in Vero Beach’s first Walk the Talk for Epilepsy this past Saturday. The event was hosted by St. Edward’s Upper School junior Chris Flaig and his mother, Cynthia, and helped by event sponsors George E. Warren Corporation, Vero Orthopedics/Vero Neurology, and Pelican Outdoor. The Walk raised over $15,000 in total donations. The Flaigs put together the event to raise awareness for the disorder Craig was diagnosed with some nine years ago as a second-grader. “We started planning the event in the mid-to-late summer -- I just wanted to do something local for the Epilepsy Foundation,” Chris said. “At the walk there were people in our
community with epilepsy who came up to thank me for making them feel like they weren’t the only one. We hope to have more of a presence here in Vero with the foundation.” Flaig is referring to the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida which also provided support for the event. After attending and hearing about so many out-of-town events supporting epilepsy, the Flaigs decided the void in Vero Beach needed to be filled. “Over the years I would see all of these walks, and they would just skip over our counties,” Cynthia said. “We’re on a mission to change that.” According to the Center for Disease Control, epilepsy affects about 2 million Americans and results in an estimated $15.5 billion in medical costs and lost or reduced earnings and production.
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Chris Flaig cuts the ribbon to begin Walk the Talk for Epilepsy.
6:00 pm cocktails 7:00 pm dinner Cost: $200 per person EDUCATOR DISCOUNT Educators will receive $25 off the morning or $50 off the evening event when they reserve their tickets by February 22. A limited number of seats are available. Reserve yours now by calling 772-794-0601. Sponsored by the George E. Warren Corporation, The Jean Thomas Lambert Foundation, The Nature Conservancy & Northern Trust, N.A.
Andrew Flaig, Cara Brueggeman, Nick Goracy, Claudia Seckinger, Dani Pulido, Maggie Barry, Joey Beale, Chris Flaig and Rick Hartley, Director of Student Activities at St. Edwards.
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the University of Miami and Boston College. Doctors say he faces no more danger playing football than any other high school player just as long as he wears a helmet. Unfortunately, not everyone who has epilepsy is a candidate for surgery. “We know there are a lot of sad stories out there with people who aren’t as fortunate as Chris right now,” Cynthia said. “There’s a stigma attached to epilepsy -- people don’t want to talk about it and are afraid to say they have it. Educating the public is key.”
F E B R U A R Y
Epilepsy can be caused by several different types of conditions that affect the brain, and often no one definite cause can be found. Various types of seizures and their symptoms can range from a momentary disruption of the senses, to short periods of unconsciousness, staring spells and convulsions. Thanks to a surgery done on the frontal lobe of his brain in 2008, along with daily medication, Chris has been virtually seizure free. At 6-foot-5, 265-pounds, he stars in football for the Pirates on both the offensive and defensive line and is even being recruited by schools like
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Work is underway in Indian River Shores to put in a new sidewalk on the west side of A1A from south of the John’s Island gate to Seminole Lane. The work on the $70,800 project is expected to be completed in about a month.
with a Visa or MasterCard. All seating is reserved. Sunday’s performance is Children’s Day with half-price tickets for those under 12 years of age.
FROM PAGE 16
LaPorte Farms to offer monthly movies VERO BEACH — LaPorte Farms will begin offering monthly movies on an outdoor movie theater under the stars. Bring your blanket and chairs Saturday, Feb. 25. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. so you can enjoy the critters on the farm. At 7 p.m. the movie will start, featuring “Dolphin Tales” in February.
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There is a $5 donation per person, children under 3 free. Popcorn, hot dogs, cotton candy, snow cones, nachos, candy and drinks will be available. Laporte Farms is located at 7700 129th Street in Sebastian. For more information call (772) 633-0813.
Treasure Coast Gator Club to provide scholarships next year VERO BEACH -- Indian River County students attending the University of Florida as undergraduates this fall may apply for a scholarship from the Treasure Coast Gator Club. Scholarship applications must be postmarked by March 5 and are available in the guidance offices of all public and private high schools, at the Indian River
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INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — County commissioners joined about 20 state corrections officers in urging Gov. Rick Scott to spare the Indian River Correctional Institution,
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INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Students will start the new school year in late August and have semester exams after winter break, but get an entire week off for Thanksgiving. The new 2012-13 school calendar received unanimous approval this week by the School Board. The calendar was added to the published agenda at the meeting. Schools Superintendent Fran Adams said parents and students needed an approved calendar so they could make plans. Under the new calendar, the school year begins Aug. 20, near the end of the month. State law requires districts to start the school year no earlier than two weeks before Labor Day unless they get a special waiver from the state. Students will have a week off during the Thanksgiving holiday. Semester exams are planned about a week after students return from a two-week winter break on Jan. 7. Spring break is scheduled March 25-29, the week before Easter. Students will be out of school on Good Friday.
and reguided,” Flescher said, in contrast to the more punitive experiences at adult facilities. The state Department of Corrections plans to close the 381-inmate-capacity prison by May 1, along with 10 other prisons and work camps, as part of a cost savings initiative to free up about $90 million in the next two years. State Corrections Sgt, Steve Rich led about 19 fellow Indian River Correctional officers in urging commissioners to pass Flescher’s resolution,
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Schools to have entire Thanksgiving week off
a facility solely housing youthful offenders, from being closed amid state budget cuts. In a 5-0 vote, commissioners approved a resolution sponsored by Commissioner Joe Flescher, who said he had also met with local lawmakers on the matter, in an effort to prevent the inmates, all males ages 14 through 18, from being transferred to facilities dominated by adult offenders. The Indian River youthful offenders are “being remolded, re-educated
F E B R U A R Y
State College Foundation office or online at www.tcgatorclub.com. The Treasure Coast Gator Club will award $1,500 scholarships to at least 17 students from Indian River and St. Lucie counties, including incoming freshman and students who are already attending UF, said Richard Giessert, president of the club. Students attending UF at the local Indian River Research and Education Center in Fort Pierce are also eligible to apply. Applicants can download the application at www.tcgatorclub.com or email questions to info@tcgatorclub.com.
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Local woman can help you find unclaimed treasure Mary Pittman has gained national acclaim helping others find missing money BY LISA RYMER VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
VERO BEACH -- The chances of winning the lottery may be a long shot, but the chances of finding unclaimed money that rightfully belongs to you is a fairly common occurrence, according to local author, Mary Pittman. With recent appearances on the “Suze Orman Show” and “Good Morning America,” the former nurse at Indian River Medical Center has found money for friends, colleagues and celebrities using the methods she shares in her publication, “The Little Book of Missing Money.” By searching legitimate online sites for unclaimed property -- such as tax returns, inheritance, insurance claims, utility deposits, paychecks and bank accounts that were never closed -- Pittman has successfully found money for three quarters of the doctors at the hospital, she said, as well as George Stephanopoulos, Suze Orman and even Justin Timberlake. “There is over a billion dollars in unclaimed property in Florida alone,” said Pittman, who has been dubbed the Missing Money Lady and is appearing on one of six segments with Orman, a financial expert on the Oprah Winfrey Network. Pittman has found as little as a few hundred dollars for people to a project she’s currently working on worth $143,000. “These are not massive amounts of money to some people, but if you’re broke, it’s a fortune,” she said. In Florida, she relies on the state’s unclaimed property site at www.fltreasurehunt.org. For national searches, she uses www.unclaimed.org. Pittman first heard about missing money when
STAFF PHOTO
Mary Pittman another nurse at the hospital said she had found some money that belonged to her on an online site. “I thought, ‘you are so naïve, so trusting. I will show you it’s a scam,’” recalls Pittman, who was at the time recovering from financial debt incurred in her divorce. But when Pittman found missing money belonging to her own deceased father, and then received a check five weeks later for $2,550.76, she became a true believer. After that, she spent all her free time browsing various online sites, learning which ones were legitimate and which ones needlessly charged money to perform searches. She also learned about state laws governing unclaimed property and all the different ways of inputting data, in-
cluding abbreviations. “I want to help people,” said Pittman, who aside from a 30-year career in nursing, spent a brief stint in Georgia as an award-winning journalist for the “Forsythe News.” In 2009, while watching Orman on television, she performed a search for the finance guru that netted $2,500 in unclaimed money. “If Suze Orman could have missing money, then her viewers could too,” said Pittman. On St. Patrick’s Day of that year, Pittman, who is Irish, attended a fundraiser at the Mar-a-lago Club, Donald Trump’s property in Palm Beach where Orman was scheduled to speak. Pittman approached Orman, saying, “Suze, I’m going to tell you something that no one else will.” And with that, she presented a printout of all the missing money belonging to Orman, who incredulously explained that the people on the list had owed her money, but that she never received it. She also said that the producers of “The Suze Orman Show” would be getting in touch with Pittman. But they didn’t. So Pittman wrote her book, incurring debt by self-publishing through an affiliate of Amazon.com, called Create Space. But, she believed that someday her book would make her a small fortune. In the meantime, she sent countless letters and emails to Orman, while pursuing her hobby of finding money for others, like Dr. William Frasier, a local plastic surgeon, for whom Pittman has found money three times. “He keeps giving it away, and I keep finding more,” said Pittman, who has a book signing at Frasier’s
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Now, Pittman devotes most of her searches to complete strangers who would not otherwise ever know they had unclaimed property. Through intense investigation, she has developed methods that are included in the book’s second edition. For instance, if your house is foreclosed on and then sold for more than you owe, or the tax deed is sold on the courthouse steps for more than the amount for which you’re indebted, “you are entitled to the overage,” explains Pittman. In her effort to reach people who may be struggling in the current economy, Pittman has contacted producers at the Christian Broadcast Network about her book. She has piqued their interest by finding money for almost everyone involved with “The 700 Club,” including Pat Robertson’s father. She has also written to Justin Timberlake, informing him of $10,000 in unclaimed cash, as well as sent a letter to his agent, who also has unclaimed property, as does the agency itself. “I would like celebrity endorsements on my website,” she said. Pittman’s book is available at the Vero Beach Book Center and on Amazon.com. Find out more about the book at www.TheLittleBookOfMissingMoney.com.
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rectors, crew members and anyone else affiliated with the national media. “It’s all about the green,” said Pittman, her eyes sparkling with delight about connecting people with their own property. Through the contacts she was able to make, she was cited as an expert advisor on missing money for a segment on “Good Morning America.” When she went to New York for the taping, which focused on a woman who discovered she had unclaimed child support, Pittman handed Stephanopoulos had unclaimed money from Harvard, where he had lectured as a visiting professor. The amounts of Stephanopoulos’ find were unavailable to Pittman because, unlike Florida, Massachusetts does not disclose the value of unclaimed property to the public. She also found missing money for the segment’s host, Elisabeth Leamy, a consumer correspondent for ABC News. And at long last, when Pittman arrived in Los Angeles for the taping of Orman’s show, she handed the hotel manager evidence of $10,000 in unclaimed money for the Hilton Universal. So far, the segment has aired three times and Pittman has been mentioned on Forbes’ website as an expert in locating missing money.
F E B R U A R Y
new offices at 1255 37th Street on February 22. She also found money for another nurse at the hospital who was having a bout of bad luck when her husband broke his arm, rendering him unable to work and the rent unpaid. Pittman details the story in the opening pages of her pocket-size paperback, in which she found four counts of unclaimed money for the woman totaling $2,256. “She said that she had received offers in the mail to help claim the money,” said Pittman. “But they wanted anywhere from $700 to $2,100 to get it for her.” Pittman does not charge for finding missing money. In fact, she cautions people about paying others to find unclaimed property, as it is fairly simple to do yourself, if you know how. “In Florida, the only people who can legally charge finder’s fees are private investigators, CPAs and lawyers,” she said. When she finished her book last March, Pittman signed up for Quantum Leap, a program that teaches writers how to market and promote their projects. Armed with an arsenal of techniques to make contact with people who could help get the word out, she performed searches for producers, di-
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McKee Garden muscle car show a big hit VERO BEACH -- McKee Botanical Garden held its third muscle car show this past weekend, drawing 34 cars and over 1,300 visitors to view the best in American automotive engineering.
“We were extremely pleased with the event,” said Kelly Susino, marketing and events manager at McKee. “We had great attendance and the caliber of cars was top notch. It was a very successful event.”
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Susino noted that this was the first year the event was held inside the park and that they were able to charge an admission fee. In addition to viewing the muscle cars, visitors were able to view
‘Sculpting Nature,’ a collection of more than 30 large-scale sculptures representing the relationship between art and nature. This show will be on display through April 30.
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city in such a difficult financial position that it has no choice but to consolidate with the county. Rather than supporting the city’s efforts to maintain the value of its water and sewer utility, Carroll and Turner repeated the very same criticism of the agreement County Commissioner Solari made in a letter he wrote the day before last week’s council meeting. Solari, remember, sits on the same county commission that recently offered to pay up to $250,000 in legal expenses for Indian River Shores should the town choose to take the city to court. Talk about stoking the flames of controversy! Until last Tuesday’s council meeting I wondered why Turner and Carroll have been reluctance to get about the work of identifying precisely how the city will adjust to the loss of nearly $5 million a year from the electric system. Witnessing their attempt to scuttle a reasonable effort to retain water and sewer customers leaves me wondering if, in fact, they may be looking to a day when the keys to the city will be handed to the Indian River County Commission.
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Mark Schumann, Publisher 978-2246 Mark.Schumann@scripps.com
Whether the city merges with the county or sells to the county, a larger system could afford more stable rates over time. Whatever options it pursues, the city owes it to taxpayers to preserve the value of its utility system. After all, the city is hardly facing foreclosure. There is no need for the city to accept anything like a short sale price for its utilities. What constitutes a fair price for the water and sewer system? Would it be the nearly $90 million appraised value or the $25 million offered by the county? Could a reasonable, fair price be reached that is somewhere in between? And how about the value of the city’s electric system? Though FPL initially offered $100 million, the system has been appraised for $190 million. Some in the know think a base price closer to $125 million is more realistic, and could be justified by FPL. While they are careful not to admit it, those who repeatedly charge the city is hopelessly incompetent seem to also believe the city has outlived its usefulness. And so, their longterm design may well be to put the
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sale of the city’s electric system. Curiously, Carroll and Turner sing a similar tune about how the city is ground zero for incompetence in municipal government. Could it be that they learned the song they are singing from others who are continually finding fault with the city? One such critic is former councilman Bob Solari, now a member of the Indian River County Commission, and a contributor to Turner’s election campaign. In contrast to the view that city government is hopelessly incompetent, some selfishly argue that the city has every right to continue operating its utilities regardless of the consequences to its customers outside the city limits. Others have taken a more moderate position, acknowledging that the city should not continue running an increasingly complex $100 million a year electric utility. The challenge now, they say, is to negotiate a deal fair to the city and to FPL. When it comes to its water and sewer utility, rather than selling to the county or continuing to go it alone, some believe the city should explore merging with the county.
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Last week the City of Vero Beach nearly forfeited $3 million a year in utility revenue, and not because of any shrewd, aggressive, or predatory moves by the county, though there have certainly been some. Despite time being of the essence, Mayor Pilar Turner and Councilwoman Tracy Carroll proposed tabling the city’s offer to Indian River Shores and referring it to the Finance and Utility commissions, where they may have hoped it would get bogged down in endless analysis. Seeing the offer as “a good deal for the city,” Vice Mayor Craig Fletcher, along with Councilmen Jay Kramer and Richard Winger, authorized City Manager Jim O’Connor to move forward in negotiations with Indian River Shores. At least these three members of the council realize the right decision made too late is the wrong decision. Turner and Carroll objected to the proposed offer to Indian River Shores charging it lacked financial detail. Ironically, both have been loath to pursue the same level of financial analysis when it comes to the
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BY MARK SCHUMANN
F E B R U A R Y
Do some on council have a hidden agenda?
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COMMUNITY FORUM
I don’t mind giving, but enough with the phone calls BY MILT THOMAS
The latest figures on charitable giving in the United States show that by far, the bulk of giving comes from individuals (73 percent) rather than bequests (8 percent), corporations (5 percent) or foundations (14 percent). That probably explains why I, as an individual, receive so many phone calls asking for money. I mean, give me a break. Times are tough, but there are many ways to request donations other than calling me in the middle of dinner. At first, I answered those calls because I am a polite, honest person. But I couldn’t tell the caller that I gave at the office since I haven’t worked in one for many years. So, I would listen politely then try to say no, but these callers use a script with all sorts of comebacks for “no,” just like my kids did when they wanted something. So then I resorted to simply hanging up. It’s against my nature to hang up on people, but I got over it. Now, thanks to caller ID, I don’t even have to
answer when I see “out of area” with no phone number or “1-800-000-0000.” I tried registering on the “Do Not Call” list, but charities and politicians are exempt. I can understand the charity MILT THOMAS exemption, but politicians? During the recent Florida primary I received so many robocalls my answering machine begged me to euthanize it. And you know all those authoritative sounding calls from Florida Highway Patrol, Sheriff’s Association, Police Association, or other law enforcement agencies? If those callers were out on the streets preventing crime instead of begging for money, we probably wouldn’t need as many of them. Of course, I realize that “authoritative sounding” doesn’t mean they are the voice of authority. In fact, they are
only civilians working for call centers, just like the ones that want to sell you air conditioners, pool refinishing or talk dirty. (Just for the record, play it safe by just donating to local law enforcement agencies. And no, I don’t receive any calls from the last group.). Another popular way to get around the “Do Not Call” registry is to tell you they are taking a three-minute survey that actually takes 20 minutes and is nothing but a sales pitch with leading questions about a specific product. I tell them up front that this is a bad time, and then never take another call from that number. Now, I realize there are many legitimate charities that truly need our help and put our donations to good use. But even some of them are wearing out their welcome. One day I received three calls asking me to send out request letters to my neighbors – and all three were from the same charity! I didn’t realize so many of our charities are based in India. As I said before, your best bet is to
limit your generosity to local charities or local branches of national charities. But you still have to be careful of non-charities asking for money. In my business, many would-be writers, desperate to land an agent, find that the only ones really interested in their work charge a fee to look at it. That means they are not interested in your work, just in collecting fees from the hundreds of desperate writers willing to fall for it. For that matter, any for-profit enterprise that asks for money other than from the product or service they provide, is either desperate and about to go out of business or feels that if you are willing to pay for a share of the Nigerian finance minister’s Swiss bank account, you will pay for anything. Milt Thomas is a Vero Beach resident and an experienced freelance writer/ author with a 20-year background in the music industry. He currently writes biographies, blogs, lectures, travels extensively and is an active member of the National Press Club.
Pulling for one another helps build community for all BY REVEREND SCOTT ALEXANDER
Beginning on April 22 of this year, I will embark (with some 30 other serious cyclists) on “The Ride to Beat Hunger,” a month-long, 3,300 mile crosscountry bike ride from Costa Mesa, Calif., to Vero Beach. We hope to raise $50,000 to $100,000 to address local and global hunger. Over the last decade, I have participated in two other group cross-country bicycle rides, and one of the most important lessons I have learned is that only by working in genuine community do all the riders get across the country swiftly, joyfully and safely. Every member of the group must depend on the cooperation, camaraderie and support of the fellow riders for a successful crossing. This happens in all kinds of big and small ways: enjoying conversation together as we pedal mile after mile,
warning one another of road hazards, stopping and helping when one rider gets a flat tire or has mechanical difficulties and encouraging one another when someone gets tired or discouraged. REVEREND But perhaps the SCOTT ALEXANDER most striking level of community among cyclists happens when they “literally “pull” for one another. Cyclist “pull” for one another when they form into a pace line. A pace line happens when a group of cyclist voluntarily decide (often when they are facing a strong headwind or a long day’s travel) to work together to achieve greater speed at a lower level of physical expenditure than any rider can achieve alone.
A pace line works this way: the group (usually 3 to 10 riders) rides together single file, in very tight formation, with the lead rider working hard “pulling” the rest of the group through the wind. The others rest in the wake of air that is created. But every couple of minutes or so (by a mutually agreed upon signal) the lead rider (who is working much harder than those who follow) peels off and safely fades to the back of the line. The rider who was second in line now moves to the front and “pulls” hard for the next minute or two, after which he or she (in turn) fades back – and so forth, for as many miles or hours as the group decides. The point here is that riders who choose to participate in pace lines not only get to their destination faster, they arrive much more rested, having equally shared the hard work of pulling through the wind at the
front of the line. It occurs to me that the highly synchronized and intentional cycling practice of the pace line is, a metaphor for all of our lives as we live in community with others. I think it is abundantly clear that the first law of human community is that all the individuals of a community achieve and benefit more when they choose to lend themselves to one another in active collaboration and communication to further agreed upon goals. So at least it always is on a long crosscountry bike ride. Without pace lines and people pulling for one another, many days in the saddle are long, and hard, and lonely – which is no way to go across this vast and beautiful country of ours. For more information about the ride and how you can participate, please go to www.theridetobeathunger.org.
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LETTERS
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Because no community is an island
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verobeachnewsweekly.com The Vero Beach Newsweekly gives you the barrier island and more. Lieutenant Mark Jackson
To learn more, call Martine Fecteau at 772-696-2004 or Mark Schumann at 772-696-5233.
N E W S W E E K L Y
How a cit y electric sale migh t impact y ou
B E A C H
The neighborhoods that make up our greater community continue to become more, not less connected and interdependent. Don’t settle for just a fraction of the news you need. Read the Newsweekly, your community weekly newspaper, from cover to cover.
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In the Feb. 9 edition of Vero Beach Newsweekly in the article “Putting faces on sacrifice: Memorial Island stories” we ran a picture of Lieutenant Mark Jackson with the wrong caption. Below is the correct photo and caption.
ALL
Covering of Vero Beach
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To the Editor: Are you for transparency in government? I’m confused! In your February 10th issue you demanded transparency for the possible electric sale in your editorial while you touted the city’s water/sewer proposal to Indian River Shores without any financial analysis. The proposed Indian River Shores contract is a 30 year, $90 million plus contract. City staff presented a one year profit and loss statement. Don’t the City taxpayers deserve more data? Where is the due diligence? Why are you not demanding full disclosure of the impact of the passage of this transaction without substantiated financial analysis? This sets a dangerous precedent. Where is your outrage at the absence of rudimentary financial data? Although we may disagree on some issues, I would hope we could agree on the foundations of financial disclosure and transparency in government. We must demand it in all instances, not selectively to suit various agendas. I am enjoying the Milt Thomas series and welcome your suggestions for economic development of our community. Your support of the Chamber’s activities is a great asset. Sincerely, Pilar Turner Pilar Turner is mayor of Vero Beach
^CQKTH u gKNO=;6HO Stay-at-home parties a growing trend in fundraising
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PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA TASCON
Guests dined by romantic candlelight at a table designed by Fe Domenech from The Event Firm International BY CHRISTINA TASCON VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
What could make non-profit benefactors open their homes and not just their checkbooks? Last weekend it was the Hibiscus Children’s Center and their numerous programs to help at-risk families. “We would do anything for the Hibiscus Children’s Center,” said one host, Armund Ek. Fine dining paired with exquisite wines opened seven beachside homes to raise funds in a unique and fun new experience for their supporters. Each host was responsible for the cost of the food, service and the
themed décor while guests wrote their $150 per personal check directly to the Center. Debbie Bedell and Sybille Ludwig gathered their friends together for a “Great Gatsby” night with speakeasy flair with both the men and women dressing up. Suzanne Bertman, president of the Women’s Guild, praised the event. “Smaller parties like this are more intimate and fun and the men especially enjoy them as compared to big receptions where they hardly know anyone.” “We donate to Hibiscus each year anyway, but this is a fun way that we
may contribute and introduce some of our friends to HCC,” said Curt Oliver at his “A Taste of Italy” affair. Linda and Mel Teetz’ Mardi Gras party included gumbo, jazz music and feathered masks. “Having this at home gives it a more personal touch and we are able to get people to spread the word about Hibiscus,” said Linda Teetz. Many non-profits have had to find different fundraising techniques to attract patrons. The trend to hold small dinner parties with the ticket price going to the charity is happening more and more and it is a simpler and sensible way to raise money.
The non-profit does not have to tax staff with huge catered events which sometimes eat up the profitability of the fundraiser. The Vero Beach Museum of Art’s six Art of Dining events also offered limited seats at a private dinner at a patron’s home after a public event. “The demands on our residents’ and patrons’ time are great during season, and it’s important for our events to stand out to garner their support,” said the Museum’s Robyn Orzel. Quail Valley has also been a leader in finding unique ways to fund their members’ pet charities as well. “Our membership is very entrepre-
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SOCIAL | LIFESTYLE
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herself. “I have always loved Children,” Drinkard said. “I think taking care of them is my highest priority so I am glad to contribute in any way.” Roni Fuster and Amy Patterson were the force behind the daunting week of eleven separate Wine and Dine events but HCC is hoping their efforts will be rewarded with upwards of $20,000 to $30,000.
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Mel & Linda Teetz in Mardi Gras mode
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F E B R U A R Y
neurial in business and spirit,” said Kevin Given. “The events are most effective because our members are the ones putting forth the effort to support worthy causes.” Linda Drinkard co-hosted a sixcourse gourmet meal with her husband Don and friends Gail and Tom Maher. A former chef who catered for the French and American embassies in Paris, Linda prepared the courses
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Co-Hosts Debbie Bedell and Sybille Ludwig at their “Great Gatsby” party
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Guests of the Maher’s and the Drinkard’s paired a 6 course meal with wine at “A Taste of Tuscany”
Derek Jones and Dick Marchese are greeted with glasses of champagne at the Oliver’s riverfront home
Culinary Capers’ Trevor LaPorte, Dan Graham and Buddy Emlet in the Bedell kitchen
Annette & Jerry Lovell with Ruth Marchese enjoy “A Taste of Italy” at the Oliver’s
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BY CHRISTINA TASCON VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
1 6 , 2 0 1 2 ! V E R O PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA TASCON
Jim & Rosalie Webster with Jo Ellen & Troy Hafner
B E A C H N E W S W E E K L Y
After the whirlwind weekend of fundraising parties for the Hibiscus Children’s Center, guests were happy to relax Monday night with a gourmet meal at Osceola Bistro with wine donated by Southern Wine & Spirits. Guest Robi Robinson is president of the local Kiwanis Club and helped HCC write an Impact 100 grant that they were awarded. “The funds will go to help the teens who are transitioning out of Hibiscus with job training, school and matching them with mentors,” said Robinson. Tablemate Heather Dean is a recent addition of the Women’s Guild which supported the weekend of events in homes throughout Indian River County. “For many of these kids, the Center is the first time they have found a secure place,” said Dean, “we give them support in a safe and secure environment.” Osceola chef/owner Chris Bireley is also a competitor in this year’s Top Chef Challenge, but he made time for the final night of restauranthosted benefits to raise money for the Center. “A lot of people knock on the door,” said Bireley, “and I do what I can to help. Being from Vero, I just want to be there for the local community.”
F E B R U A R Y
Osceola Bistro hosts end to Hibiscus charity event
Emmett & Margaret Anne Evans, Debbie & John Huryn and Dena & Sam Lombardo
Chester Clem AT T O R N E Y AT L AW
Wills · Estates · Trusts 2145 15th Avenue Vero Beach, FL 32960 772-978-7676 Located less than a block north of the Court House in downtown Vero Beach
Chris Bireley, Chef/Owner Osceola Bistro, prepares the night’s menu
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Community Calendar Every Friday: Farmer’s Market from 3-6 pm, downtown Vero, corner 14th Ave. & 21st St. 772-480-8353. Every Saturday: Oceanside Business Association’s Farmer’s Market, 8 am-noon. Ocean Dr. & Dahlia Ln. 772-532-2455. First Friday of the Month: Downtown Gallery Art Stroll, art galleries and businesses open house receptions. Free. 772-562-5525 or 772-299-1234. Every Sunday Jan 22-Apr 1: Vero Beach Polo, Polo Grounds Field, 12th St. between 74th & 82nd Aves., 2 pm, $10+ per car. 772-778-2224. Every Sunday in February: Art in the Park, Vero Beach Art Club members exhibition, Humiston Park, free. 3000 Ocean Dr. 772-231-0303. Dec 15-Apr 30: Sculpting Nature, 30 large scale art pieces in McKee Botanical Gardens, 350 S US1, $5-$9, 772-794-0601. Feb 16: “Home is Where the Heart Is” Celebration, Holy Cross Parish Hall, 500 Iris Ln., formal dinner, $125, 6-10 pm, benefits Samaritan Center for Homeless Families, 772-770-3039. Feb 16: Prestige Travel’s Luxury Travel Show, 4:30-7 pm, Grand Harbor Club House. 772-231-2201 x206. Feb 16: 19th Annual Samaritan Center for Homeless Families Dinner, honoring Rev. Jack & Karen Diehl, this year’s “Good Samaritans,”$125, Holy Cross Parish, 500 Iris Ln., 772-770-3039. Feb 16-17: Barbara Vanderbilt Jewelry and Anita Ford Collection Trunk Show, Thursday 10-5, & Friday 9-3, Vero Beach Hotel & Spa, 3200 Ocean Blvd. 772-231-5666. Feb 16-18: Plein Air Artist’s Rendezvous, Environmental Learning Center, 255 Live Oak Dr., 9 am-4 pm, Saturday reception 5-7 pm. 772-589-5050. Feb 17: Master’s Academy’s “ParaTHURSDAY, FEB. 16
PHOTO BY BILLY OCKER
Sebastian Inlet North Jetty dise in the Son” tropical dinner & auction, Community Church, 1901 23rd St., 6 pm. 772-778-1070. Feb 17-19: Treasure Coast Rock & Gem Show, Community Center, 2266 14th Ave., Friday noon-5 pm, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 10-4. 772-581-0515. Feb 18: Windsor Polo Club Charity Cup, tailgate tickets, luncheon and match at Windsor Polo Field to benefit John Walsh’s National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Saint Edward’s and the Humane Society. 10 am gates open, luncheon noon, match at 2 pm, $100-$2,000. 772559-6362 or 410-804-8721. Feb 18: Screen on the Green, Pointe West, West SR 60, “Madagascar Escape to Africa,” free, 772-794-9912. Feb 18: 2nd Annual Lobster Classic, Riverside Park, 3001 Riverside Dr., lobster, food & beverage vendors,
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crafts, bounce house, music, 11-4, free entry, Treasure Coast Rotary Club, 772-202-3811. Feb 18: Annual Trash & Treasure, silent auction & bake sale, Christ by the Sea United Methodist Church, 3755 N. A1A, 8 am-1 pm. Feb 18: HERITAGE ROCKS! Paris Air Hangar at Vero Beach Airport, 6:30-11 pm, $60, Heritage Center celebrating 77 years, music, BBQ & silent auction. 772-770-2263. Feb 18: Italian American Civic Association Flea Market, breakfast, lunch, 1600 25th St., 8:30-2:30. 772-567-5673. Feb 18: AAUW Book-Author Luncheon, Diane Thompson Cortese, Deborah Sharp & Paula Stahel, noon, Grand Harbor Clubhouse, 4985 Club Terr., $45. 772-794-9632. Feb 18-19: Opening Day Rowing Club Regatta, Boat Dedication & 5K
SUNDAY, FEB. 19
Run/Walk, Riverview Park, Sebastian. Rowing Club, 772-564-4348 or 5K, 772-569-7364. Feb 18-19: 14th Annual Antiques & Collectibles Show, Garden Club Center, 2526 17th Ave., $2, 10 am-4 pm. 772-567-4602. Feb 19: Free admission to Leap Day at the Halstrom House, 1723 Old Dixie Hwy., 1-4 pm. Historical Society, 772-778-3435. Feb 19: Youth Sailing Foundation “Cook Out,” Vero Beach Yacht Club, 11 am-4 pm. Lunch, boat building shop tour, pontoon rides, children’s sailing demo, $25. 772 567-9000. Feb 21: The Music Man, Riverside Theatre’s Premiere Benefit, black tie, dinner, performance and champagne reception, 5:30 pm, $500-$1,000, Riverside Second Stage, 772-231-5860. Feb 22: Grand Harbor Community Outreach Bridge & Luncheon at Oak Harbor, prizes, 10:30 am. $50-$75. 772-774-8884. Feb 22: Harbor Branch Eco-Boat Trip, pontoon boat ride to see birds, dolphins, turtles, etc. 10:30 am lunch at Harbor Branch Café. $50. Reservations required. 772-242-2559. Feb 23: Tie-Bration cocktail party, Northern Trust, 755 Beachland Blvd., $50-$100, 5:30-7:30 pm, benefits Dollars for Scholars. 772-569-9869. Feb 24-25: “Into the Woods” Musical at Waxlax Center at St. Edward’s School, 1895 St. Edward’s Dr., 7 pm, $5-$10, 772-231-4136. Feb 25: Vero Beach Museum of Art Community Celebration, free community event, art exhibitions, kids activities, presentations and tours, 10 am-4 pm, 3001 Riverside Park Dr. 772-231-0707. To submit your calendar listing please email: verobeachnewsweekly@gmail.com
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psychologically, physically and cognitively,” said Louv from his home in San Diego. The book resonated with both environmentalists and parents, who themselves had experienced more outside play time than their children, said Louv. As a consequence, “Last Child in the Woods” was on the New York Times best-sellers list, and Louv was awarded an Audubon Medal, and appeared on the “Today Show,” “NBC Nightly News,” “CBS Evening News” and “Good Morning America.” As a columnist at the San Diego Union Tribune, Louv began exploring the changing landscape of family life during the 1980s. He interviewed about 3,000 children, parents and grandparents, and discovered that a recurring theme was a distancing between children and nature. Aside from electronics -- television, video games and now the internet -completely dominating the lives of children, resulting in fewer and fewer opportunities to interact with nature, the media has also played a part in creating obstacles to unsupervised outdoor play. “There are a disproportionate number of stories reported about violence toward children outside the home,” said Louv, explaining that those stories are told over and over again, so that a single incident suddenly seems like 50 crimes
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RICHARD LOUV
The program, sponsored by the William Bingham Foundation and Rotary Club charities, encourages children to bring their backpacks every time they return to the garden to initiate a new course of interactive learning. In addition to the backpack program, McKee also hosts other special children’s events, including brunch with the Easter bunny, a fairy festival where children dress up in costumes and build fairy houses, and even a summer camp. As Louv toured the country discussing the predicament facing children, “adults would stand up and say, ‘what about us?’” he said. “The Nature Principal,” Louv’s most recent of his eight books, explores the
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VERO BEACH -- It’s an idyllic setting for a celebration: the banyan tree rooting earth to heaven, the lily pond in winter bloom and the wooden bridges leading adventurous souls on a journey into nature. Next week, McKee Botanical Garden, a 20-acre sanctuary at 350 U.S. Highway 1, will investigate that connection to the natural world in a two-part fundraiser featuring Richard Louv. The best-selling author will also help launch a new nature program for children. The event consists of a morning lecture on Saturday, Feb. 25 at the garden, featuring a light breakfast and a discussion of the importance nature plays in mental, physical and emotional health. That evening, a cocktail reception and formal dinner for Louv will allow him to introduce the Garden Discovery Backpack program, providing children with interactive learning materials to enhance their visits to McKee. “Of our 30,000 visitors in 2011, nearly 4,000 were children… up significantly over 2010,” said Kelly Susino, McKee’s marketing director. The board members of the garden, which was originally established by Waldo Sexton and Arthur McKee in 1922, would like to see those numbers continue to go up by presenting the concepts Louv explores in his writing. Louv emerged onto the national scene in 2008 with the publication of his book, “Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder.” The book ignited a movement reconnecting children to nature as a way of dealing with lethargy, depression, obesity and other conditions, including attention deficit disorder, that have taken hold of the nation’s youth as technology became more accessible to them. “When children are deprived of experiences in nature, they are impacted
against children have occurred. “While violence toward children in the home has increased over the past 25 years, violence by strangers outside the home has actually decreased,” he said. “Parents can’t let their kids go beyond the front stoop in fear for their safety.” To counter that fear, a nonprofit organization called the Children and Nature Network was established to organize campaigns, or neighborhood nature clubs, to encourage kids to interact outdoors. McKee’s version of a nature club consists of the Garden Discovery Backpacks, filled with materials about flower and plant identification, an introduction to insects, pollination, jungle survival and other topics of interest for children ages 5 to 12.
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His best-seller sparked a movement to connect children with nature
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Author Richard Louv to speak at McKee
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Museum acquires Metcalf oil painting VERO BEACH -- The Vero Beach Museum of Art recently purchased a Willard Leroy Metcalf oil painting titled “The Falls” as an addition to its permanent collection. The acquisition was made possible with funds provided by Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Stott, Jr. “The acquisition of ‘The Falls’ by Willard will greatly strengthen the Museum’s collection of American impressionist paintings,” said Jay Williams, curator of exhibitions and collections. “Metcalf ’s canvas shows his mastery of impressionist technique as adapted to record the beauties of the New England landscape, a blend of blend of realism and impressionism that is both accurate and poetic.” Willard Metcalf was a founding member of the group known as the Ten American Painters, formed in 1898. Other well-known members of the group were Childe Has-
sam (1859-1935), Julian Alden Weir (18521919), Thomas Dewing (1851-1938), Edward Simmons (1852-1931), Joseph R. De Camp (1858-1923), Frank Benson (1862-1951), Robert Reid (1862-1929), Edmund Tarbell (1862-1938) and later William Merritt Chase (1849-1916). Though most members of the group were influenced by French impressionism, they tended to work in a more poetic style that incorporated other stylistic traits. Metcalf and Hassam were particularly close, often traveling and painting together in New England. Nevertheless, Metcalf, and not Hassam, captured the spirit of the region in his work. In his 2003 essay for a comprehensive exhibition of Metcalf ’s paintings, William H. Gerdts wrote that Metcalf “understood the [New England] landscape as distinctly American, as did no one else.”
LOUV FROM PAGE 33
disconnect between adults and nature, with an entire chapter devoted to the elderly. Substantiated by research, anecdotal evidence and personal stories, Louv taps into the restorative power of nature and shows that by incorporating nature into daily life, we have greater mental acuity and creativity; improved health and wellness; smarter and more sustainable communities, and ultimately human bonds are strengthened. In addition, the book discusses the shifts in the environmental movement, which in the past focused on the inherently limiting conservation of energy. The new movement embraces biophilia, a term popularized by author Edward O. Wilson which literally means love of life and living systems. For Louv, biophilia indicates that a connection to nature can produce infinite amounts of human energy. For instance, gardens are already becoming an important aspect of hospitals for their healing effects. In the workplace, by bringing nature inside with vistas and atriums, and by getting
rid of the cubicles, it has reduced sick time and employee turnover. “As of 2008, for the first time in history more people in the world live in cities than in the countryside,” said Louv. “As a species, we are hard-wired to experience nature; it’s part of our genetic code. We are still hunters and gatherers, we still need that connection.” According to Louv, the new movement involves architects, builders, developers and politicians working together to create cutting edge designs that may well change the way urban constructs, both residential and commercial, serve humanity in the future. “The old environmentalism has gone down a cul-de-sac,” said Louv, who sees Americans at a fork in the road, facing either an apocalyptic future that resembles the stark landscape of science fiction movies or something more beautiful. “We need to paint a picture of where we want to go,” he said. And as he describes his vision, the natural beauty of McKee emerges as a beacon of what is possible for all communities. For ticket information and sales, call McKee Botanical Garden at 794-0601.
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When the work is completed the museum will have added a second story to the facility. The first floor will provide needed preparation space for exhibitions, and the second floor will house the permanent collection, raising it to a safe level. In
addition an advanced air conditioning system will be in place allowing for cost efficient maintenance of temperature and humidity control throughout the Museum and at the loading dock and art conservation lab.
The Emerson Center Presents
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March 31, 2012
March 10, 2012
February 25, 2012
Neil DeGrasseTyson Joe Scarborough
Bob Woodward
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Performances will be on Saturdays at 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. For more information visit www.TheEmersonCenter.org.
1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach, FL 32960
(On the SE corner of 16th Street & 27th Avenue at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Vero Beach)
N E W S W E E K L Y
allow for borrowing major works of art from museums and collections around the world. A major concern for the museum has been that it is located on a flood plain and sits just 8 feet above sea level. In addition, the Museum’s climate control system needed to be upgraded to ensure that temperature and humidity controls are in place to preserve both its collection, as well as works of art on loan to the institution.
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VERO BEACH -- Work on the first phase of the Vero Beach Museum of Art’s expansion is underway and should be completed by next summer. Funding for the X.X million project has come mainly through the support of the museum’s board of trustees. The museum is undertaking the expansion to provide more space for its growing permanent art collected and to provide a safe environment to
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Expansion underway at Vero Beach Museum of Art
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ics demonstration. There will be 12 other individual artist/faculty art demonstrations in the atrium, sculpture park, lobby, and entrance to the museum. The museum will also offer presentations throughout the day in the Leonhardt Auditorium from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is sponsored by Publix Supermarkets Charities, Inc.
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view will be Art in Bloom, a display of floral arrangements inspired by artworks from the museum’s permanent collection. Other highlights include: Studio Art Activities where young artists and their families can create their own masterpieces in the Museum Art School studio classrooms; faculty artist demonstrations including the “Clay, Glorious Clay!” ceram-
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with in the Sculpture Park; Beyond Reality: Hyperrealism and American Culture in the Holmes Gallery; Cycle of Change: Tom Nakashima’s Treepile Paintings in the Schumann Gallery; Stephan Knapp: Lightpaintings in the Stark Gallery; a Museum Art School faculty exhibition in the Patricia M. Patten Community Gallery and the Eggert Children’s Gallery. Also on
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VERO BEACH -- The Vero Beach Museum of Art will hold its all-free Community Celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25. Events include admission to all the museum’s exhibits and free docent-led guided tours for gallery visitors. Exhibitions on view include Matthew Geller: Woozy Blossom in the Alice and Jim Beck-
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Public invited to attend free celebration at museum
ARTS | ENTERTAINMENT
Sunrise Theatre adds Aztec Two-Step show
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ATLANTIC CLASSICAL ORCHESTRA
SUNRISE THEATRE
866-310-7521 acomusic.org Feb 19: Chamber Music Concert, Vero Beach Museum of Art, $40, 772-231-0707 ext 136
116 South 2nd Street Fort Pierce 772-461-4775 sunrisetheatre.com $25-$50 Feb 16: Get the LED Out, the Led Zeppelin Experience, 7 pm, $35/$29 Feb 17: Ron Dante’s Back to the 60’s Show, 8 pm, $75/$49/$39 Feb 19: The Hit Men, 7 pm, $39/$29 Feb 21: Paul Anka, 7 pm, $85/$75 Feb 23: Monty Python’s Tour “Spam-a-Lot,” 7 pm, $50/$60 Feb 28: Diana Ross, 7 pm, $115/$85
COMMUNITY CHURCH OF VERO BEACH
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Community Concert Series 1901 23rd Street 772-778-1070 Feb 26: Canadian Brass, 7:30 pm, $35 Adults & $15 Student Mar 9: MozART Group, 7:30 pm, $35 Adults & $15 Students
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Entertainment Calendar
EMERSON CENTER
TREASURE COAST JAZZ SOCIETY
at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 1590 27th Avenue 772-778-5249 TheEmersonCenter.org Feb 16: Alex Stepick, Ph.D., Immigration Impact on Florida & US, Florida Humanities Series, 7 pm, Free Feb 25: Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Celebrated Speakers Series, 4 & 7 pm, $65
772-234-4600 tcjazzsociety.org Feb 18: “The Black Dogs” at Vero Beach Yacht Club, noon Feb 27: Two Grand Piano Giants “More Improvs on The Great American Songbook,” Vero Beach Museum of Art, 7:30 pm
RIVERSIDE THEATER
PHOTO SUPPLIED
Aztec Two-Step will present their Simon and Garfunkel Songbook March 9 at the Sunrise Theatre. FORT PIERCE -- The acoustic duo Aztec Two-Step will present the “Simon and Garfunkel Songbook” with special guest radio host and author Pete Fornatale on March 9 at the Sunrise Theatre. Rex Fowler and Neal Shulman, who make up Aztec Two-Step, will sing Simon and Garfunkel classics such as “Mrs. Robinson,” “Cecelia,” “The Sound of Silence” and “The Boxer.” Interwoven with the music will be anecdotes of the 1960s and 1970s from Fornatale, radio host of Mixed Bag on XM Radio. Aztec Two-Step has been together nearly four decades. Their music is a blend of intelligent songwriting, acoustic lead guitar and haunting harmonies. They have been staples of progressive FM and college radio and their legacy includes 14 studio albums and numerous television appearances including Late Night with David Letterman. They were the subject of a PBS documentary No Hit Wonder:
The Aztec Two-Step Story in 1999. They are known for bridging folk rock into the 1970s and beyond and continue to be one of acoustic music’s most respected and enduring acts. Aztec Two-Step has shared the stage with a wide variety of acts from The Band, Allan Ginsberg and Bruce Springsteen to Jimmy Buffett, Peter Frampton and Randy Newman. Fornatale is one of the architects of progressive FM radio. He is the author of Simon and Garfunkel’s Bookends (Rodale, 2007), a celebrated retrospective of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel’s personal, professional and artistic partnership. Filled with never-before-disclosed details, Simon & Garfunkel’s Bookends chronicles the events leading up to the folk duo’s split in 1970, beginning with the April 1968 release of “Bookends.” Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For more information visit www.sunrisetheatre.com or call 772-461-4775.
3250 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-6990 riversidetheatre.com Children’s Theatre: Feb 3-25: The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, 1:30 & 7:30 pm, $10-$16 Stark Main Stage: Feb 23-March 25: The Music Man, 2, 7:30 & 8 pm, $57-$73 Feb 21: Premiere Benefit, dinner/reception, 5:30 pm, $500-$1,000. Second Stage: Feb 14-18: The World Goes Round Revue, 2 & 8 pm, $40 Feb 23-Mar 25: The Music Man, 2, 7:30 & 8 pm, $57-$73 Comedy Zone: Feb 24-25: Kevin Bozeman & John Wynn
VERO BEACH MUSEUM OF ART 3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707 Feb 20: Jules Feiffer, Humorist, Leonhardt Auditorium, 4 & 6 pm, $55-$65
VERO BEACH OPERA verobeachopera.org 772-569-6993 Box Office: 772-564-5537 verobeachopera.org Feb 25: Met Live at the Majestic, Ernani, 1:00 pm, Majestic Theatre
VERO BEACH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 1707 16th Street 772-564-5537 Feb 17-19: Oliver! Fri & Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 2 pm, $10-$12
SPACE COAST SYMPHONY Various Locations 321-536-8580 SpaceCoastSymphony.org Feb 25: American Icons, Trinity Episcopal Church, 2365 Pine Avenue, 3 pm, $20
VERO BEACH THEATRE GUILD 772-562-8300 2020 San Juan Avenue verobeachtheatreguild.com Mar 15-Apr 1: Titanic the Musical, 2, 7 & 8 pm
SPONSORED BY '2*!
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1590 27th Avenue, Vero Beach (772)778-5249 www.TheEmersonCenter.org
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BY MICHAEL BIELECKI
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VERO BEACH -- Roller Derby is truly like nothing else in the sports world, even in a place like Vero Beach, where the sports scene is constantly evolving. It combines the toughness of a contact sport like rugby with the finesse and precision of speed skating, and it is typically played with all-female personnel. Vero Beach’s team, the Vandalettes, squared off against the South Florida Rollers of Fort Pierce last Sunday to a capacity crowd at the Skate Factory in an epic display of, well, so many things. The $12 admission fee ($10 for advanced tickets) bought the spectator an uncommon form of entertainment in an environment that offered something for everyone. The contest -- properly termed a bout -- consisted of two 30-minute periods with an intermission in-between. Both rosters were filled women of all shapes, sizes, and walks of life who proudly put their alter-egos on display while flying around a roller rink in game jerseys, spandex, knee pads and helmets. The skaters don alter-ego personas and uniforms which coincide with derby names like Kitty Cutya Deep. Those derby names range from sexual to satirical. In short, the bout was a big dose of female empowerment wrapped into hard-fought competition, garnished by the natural rivalry that is Vero Beach vs. Fort Pierce. Taking the night off from skating at the bout was Blythe McHenry, an original member of the Vandalettes and now a current Rollers team member, who has come to appreciate roller
derby as so much more than a sport. “Roller derby is like a giant family -- your team is a huge group of girls that you know are there for you to talk to no matter what,” McHenry said. “Not only do I learn something every time I put on skates, I also have an entire team of girls, coaches and referees (each squad has their own referees) to bond with.” McHenry has seen the Vandalettes grow since their formation in 2010, when she was brand new to the sport. “Vero has a great team now,” McHenry said. “I was there when the team first started, so seeing how far they have come is incredible. This was not by any means an easy win. They are all very competitive and love what they do and it shows on the track.” While their passion for skating is evident, what people don’t see is all the hard work that goes into turning a bout into topnotch entertainment. While most of the rosters are filled with exceptional skaters, it still takes a few hours of practice per week to get everyone skating as a team. Further, it takes monthly dues paid by the skaters, fundraising and selling their team to the public to pay for rink time, uniforms, travel expenses and more. Hence, the $12 admission fee at the door. Operating as a non-profit organization, the players and team do not make money on their bouts. They do, however, raise money for local charities like SafeSpace of Indian River County, to whom they cut a $600 check to in December. A trip to their website, www.
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VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
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Roller derby alive and well in Vero Beach
PHOTO BY MIKE BIELECKI
The Vero Beach Vandalettes use the Skate Factory as their home rink. vandalettes.com, will give you a look at their roster, their mission statement, and even offers a $50 season pass to all of the
squad’s bouts. The Vandalettes play next on March 3, when they travel to Melbourne to play the Molly Roger Roller Girls.
Superior Auto Service Family Owned and Operated “Old Fashioned Service” Superior Auto Service employs ASE Master Mechanics to provide diagnostic and repair services on all American, European & Asian vehicles. We install premium and original equipment parts only! Owner Bill Marion, a certified ASE Master Mechanic, has been repairing vehicle in Vero Beach since 1987 at the same location.
(772) 569-1410 1212 23rd St., Vero Beach, FL 32960 · www.verobeach.com
Valvoline Expresscare of Vero Beach Quick Lube Owned and Operated by Superior Auto Service
(772) 778-6645 Under New Management
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SPORTS
Spring is coming, baseball is back in Vero Beach
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BY MICHAEL BIELECKI VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
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VERO BEACH -- Baseball has returned as the Vero Beach High School baseball team finished its pre-season schedule Friday by squaring off against Heritage High School. Coach Jeff Steinman returns for his 24th year leading the Fighting Indians and most of his starting position players are back this season. Vero graduated its top two pitchers from a year ago in Will Ore and Eric Enrico, and its hopes of topping last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s district runner-up finish will rest on the arms of young pitchers like junior left-hander Alex Dermody and sophomore right-hander Delaney Wilson. Senior right-handed pitcher Austin Todd figures to log some major innings as well. Blessed with exceptional defenders like junior shortstop Chris Kazen and junior catcher Jordyn Cruz, Vero promises to be strong up the middle with senior second baseman Scott Wright and senior center fielder Austin Green also playing solid defense. All of these players provide solid offense for the Indians. Vero Beach should get on base a lot due to outstanding patience at the plate even if there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a true standout production hitter on the team. As often as Kazen gets on base, if any one of Cruz, Todd and senior first baseman Alexis Garcia have breakthrough seasons it could carry the Fighting Indians offensively.
PHOTOS BY MIKE BIELECKI
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Hanlon’s men’s store marks major milestone LISA RYMER
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VERO BEACH NEWSWEEKLY
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This Valentine’s Day marked the 30th anniversary of Hanlon’s Men’s Shoes and Clothing store, a labor of love that certainly deserves recognition. There are only a handful of businesses in all of Vero Beach that have survived 30 years, a testimony to the dedication such an enterprise requires. “We started from scratch. No phone ringing, no one coming in,” said owner Tom Hanlon about opening his shoe store at Pelican Plaza on February 14, 1982. He moved to his current location at 3343 Cardinal Drive, on the corner of Beachland Boulevard – which he calls the center of the universe -- in 1997. He expanded the store’s inventory to include clothing and accessories about a year after opening. Up until last year, there were five men’s clothing stores on the island, an unusually high number for such a small community, says Hanlon. “There used to be eight stores,” he recalls. But with the closing of J. Ran’s last May after 34 years in business, Hanlon’s was exceed in longevity by J.T. Rhoades, which opened in 1981. “I just love doing this,” he said, humbly explaining his ability to maintain relationships while building new ones is a big part of the store’s viability. “My clientele are interesting people. After all this time, I’ve just begun to scratch the surface.” Hanlon grew up in the retail clothing industry, as his father had owned an upscale intimate apparel shop in Boston After graduating from Burdett College, Hanlon went to work as a manager in the shoe department at Filene’s.
STAFF PHOTO
Tom Hanlon and Tommy Finneran of Hanlon’s Men’s Shoes and Clothing store, which has been in business in Vero Beach for 30 years. Now known for the high-quality clothing he carries, Hanlon said “the best part of owning a store is I don’t have to duck when handing someone their purchase.” Due to the number of seasonal residents on the island, local men’s clothiers basically carry only spring and summer fashions. However, stocking shorts and light-weight fabrics during the fall and winter months can present some challenges. For instance, while the rest of the country is covered in dark, muted shades of grey and brown, “here in Florida we do color,” said Hanlon.
He carries an extensive assortment of bright and lively golf shirts in a pastel colors. Although he no longer has a significant business selling suits, he continues to sell custom-made blazers and corporate wear for businessmen men who live in the area or who are visiting from out of town. “Over the past couple of years, the fashion silhouette has become a lot cleaner, more tapered,” said Hanlon. “You don’t see the baggy pants so much anymore, or ‘ballooning’ shirts.” For the second year in a row, pleats
are out of style, too. “Everything has gone to flat-front trousers,” he said. While Hanlon’s customers have traditionally been more mature, which prevents him from carrying clothes that are too trim, he also caters to an influx of baby boomers. From the very beginning, we have offered a 20 percent discount off the suggested retail price of everything in the store,” said Hanlon. “Even the wealthy like to get a break on price.” HANLON’S 3343 CARDINAL DRIVE 231-2334
pKDKDM A Blue Star is reborn in Vero and the results are shining BY MARK JOSEPH
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The Blue Star Wine Bar is the latest effort by Vero chef Kitty Wagner.
On a Friday evening, seeking entertainment, a light meal and a fabulous wine, only one place came to mind: Blue Star Wine Bar on Bougainvillea Lane in Vero Beach. Arriving about 7 p.m., we were happy to see two bar stools still available. As we took our seats we soon began to see many familiar faces of patrons filing in the door and like an old version of “Cheers,” Blue Star Wine Bar is where everyone, or at least many, may know your name. Wanting to enjoy all the libations, we started with a bottle of Cedar Knoll, Cabernet. This 2007 vintage captured our pallet with sheer delight. Dry, light and smooth, and beautifully presented in a wine carafe, it was the perfect red wine. Blue Star offers a good selection of both wine and beer and, in fact, we quickly learned that if a bottle of wine caught our eye, we were immediately offered a sampling to taste and though the Cedar Knoll that we chose was a bit higher priced then most other selections, Blue Star has many offerings of great wine and beer by the glass that’s for fit for those on a budget. Located just a block off Ocean Drive at 925 Bougainvillea Lane, Blue Star is the brain-child of Kitty Wagner, a well-known Vero Beach chef with several past restaurants to her credit. Originally from Ohio, Kitty’s culinary travels included Canada, Alaska and Texas where she paused for a bit before moving to Vero Beach. A few years ago she opened Blue Starfish Restaurant, at the same location as the wine bar; hence the name Blue Star. Kitty sold the restaurant and later
opened the Undertow near downtown which quickly became popular in its own right. After some time, she eventually returned to the old Blue Starfish location, made a few changes and at the end of last year she opened Blue Star Wine Bar retaining part of the name and the big Blue Star which is now proudly displayed behind the bar. If not in the kitchen, Kitty can be found talking and laughing with guests almost as if she’s known them for years. A big broad smile seems to never leave her face and as with the old ”Cheers” TV show, Kitty knows almost everyone and most know her as well. Kitty’s talents as an accomplished chef have made Blue Star a popular spot for lunch, late night noshing and socializing. There’s even live music on most nights. In addition to regional and imported wine and beer, Blue Star also serves tapas and when presented with the menu of small plates, we were surprised at the bountiful selections not often found in a traditional wine bar. The gourmet tapas selections included a homemade soup of the day, small salads, flat bread pizza, sliders and imported cheese trays among other items, all listed on a simple paper menu. The chicken liver pate was the first choice and a very good one at that. I can honestly say this pate was as good as that found at the famous Tavern on the Green in New York and truly the best this side of Manhattan. The rich, buttery pate was served in a small ramekin with plenty of crostini and when applied to the crispy thin rounds of bread, it was love in every bite. The pate was so good, I’ve added it to my favorite list of tapas. My only small complaint was the pate’ was gone long before the crostini. Maybe next time, I’ll ask for a double order of the pate.
DINING
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Weekly Sunday Brunch Starting January 8th 9:30am - 3:00pm Only $24.95* per person
Weekly 3 course Prex-Fixe Sunday - Thursday 5:30pm - 7:00pm Only $21.95* per person
Reservations accepted Visa, M/C, Discover Hours: Tue-Sat: 11 am – 1 am
3244 Ocean Drive | Vero Beach | 32963 HOTEL DIRECT: 772.562-9919 | The WAVE Kitchen & Bar: 772.410.0100 | SPA: 772.410.0100 costadeste.com | Facebook.com/Costadestebeachresort * prices do not include tax or gratuity
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Now Open for Dinner Lemon Tree – Love it!
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Friendly, clean, excellent food and service. Beer and Wine. Homemade soups and desserts. Children’s menu available. Breakfast: Mon.-Sat. 7 am - 11 am Lunch: Mon.-Sat. 11 am - 2:30 pm Sunday Breakfast: 7:30 am - noon Dinner: 5 pm - ’til close 3125 OCEAN DRIVE, VERO BEACH | 772.231.0858 WWW.LEMONTREEVERO.COM
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Simple, Savory & Seaside Offering a menu directly sourced from local farmers, fisherman and artisanal purveyors.
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Sunday Traditions and Weekdays Specials
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BLUE STAR WINE BAR Wine, tapas, bottled and draft beer 925 Bougainvillea Lane, Vero Beach FL. 32963 772-231-3338
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Dinner with wine before tip: $125.00
Cuisines of Vero
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simple in presentation, was warm, rich, dense and decadent and included fresh raspberries topped with a generous amount of whipped cream. The homemade bread pudding was surprisingly light, luscious and not at all heavy or overly sweet. This version even challenged my mother’s guarded recipe. As with all great desserts, the last few bites of both the brownie and bread pudding left us longing for more. Kitty Wagner may have moved around a bit, but her culinary experience obviously shines at this wine bar. Kitty and the friendly staff at Blue Star have brought ‘hip’ back to Vero Beach and this ‘epicenter of cool’ is still a place where everyone, including Kitty, knows your name. We’re glad to see Kitty back and we think this time she’s here to stay.
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The soup of the day was clam chowder and since it is our long time favorite, we ordered a bowl which arrived, hot, thick and rich with tender clams. This New England version was even better when shared with the pate and remaining crostini. Our next selection of tapas was the flatbread pizza; prepared Italian style with fresh spinach, bright red cherry tomatoes and baked on a thin, yet chewy pizza crust. This flatbread would easily rival even the best pizzerias and served in a healthy portion, the flatbread was nearly a meal all by itself. Our final selection of savory treats were the BBQ sliders, served with coleslaw and chips. Perfectly pulled tender pork, tender with a spicysweet sauce was served on fresh mini buns. The sliders were complemented by the homemade slaw - the best outside of my own kitchen. Crunchy and not overly dressed, it was simply cole slaw done right. Bringing us back to childhood was the addition of Ruffles potato chips and the final touch, a single, pickled okra. The sliders, together with the slaw and chips, were the perfect blending of tangy, tart, salt and sweet and a great comfort food dish that’s easily shared. Small plates together with our big appetites still left room for dessert and we saw two of our all time favorites: bread pudding and the chocolate brownie. The brownie, though
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Obituaries Neil Neslon, 82, Former Indian River County Administrator INDIAN RIVER COUNTY -Neil Alfred Nelson, who served as County Administrator in the early 1980s, died Feb. 6 at his daughter’s home in Melbourne. He was 82. Nelson was born in New Orleans and lived in Vero Beach for 35 years after moving from Parris Island, S.C. Nelson served 26 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, retiring in 1977 at the rank of colonel. Upon coming to Vero Beach he took a job as assistant county administrator/fuel allocation officer from 1977 to 1980. He was promoted to succeed his long-serving predecessor Jack Jennings in 1980 and served in that positon until
Velma Whisenant Velma Francis Whisenant, 87, died Jan. 31, 2012, at her home. She was a former resident of Vero Beach. Before retirement, she was the owner/operator of Granny’s Lap, a day care center in Vero Beach.
Herbert M. Bergen Jr. Herbert M. Bergen Jr., 87, died Feb. 4, 2012, at his home. He was born in Santa Ana, Calif., and lived in Vero Beach since 2000, coming from Southwest Harbor, Maine. He served in the Army in Europe and later during the Korean War, he was an Army captain in the Far East. He was awarded the Bronze Star. In 1959, he joined Fieldcrest Mills Inc. in New York City. He served in various divisions during his 27 years with the company, retiring as president of the Bed and Bath Division and senior vice president of Fieldcrest Mills Inc. He was a member of St. Paul’s Church of Vero Beach. Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Peggy; daughters, Devora Detherage of Tustin, Calif., Cheryl Koonsman of Bellingham, Wash., Barbara Mintz of Montclair, N.J., and Dana De Vito of Bethlehem, Pa.; son, Bradley Bergen of Peoria, Ariz.; sister, Marilyn
1982, when he resigned. Nelson was a graduate of Stetson University and went on to earn a master’s degree in business administration. Former Vero Beach Mayor Warren Winchester, a retired Navy captain, told the Press he bonded with Nelson through their command experiences and Christ Church membership. “That man was a man of sterling character,” Winchester said. “He was a good Christian, a good Marine Corps officer and a good county employee. ... He was not very well schooled in politics. He had a hard time dealing with things
when he knew the right way was not going to fly, but when the political decision was a contrived decision.” After he resigned from the county, Nelson sold commercial real estate with Alex MacWilliams’ Real Estate. He devoted much of his later years, working as a volunteer for Care Net Pregnancy Center. Executive Director Cheryl Hine said Care Net attracted Nelson’s service by providing alternatives to abortion based on private funding instead of government spending. Survivors include his sons, Neil Nelson Jr. of Durango, Colo., and
Caine; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
came a general contractor and ultimately moved to Hiawassee. Mr. Corey loved flying and boating. He was an instrument-rated pilot, and owned numerous boats both in Florida and Georgia, throughout his life. He is survived by his wife, Krista Bailey Corey; his two daughters, Lauren Corey Geda, and her husband Stan, of Harrisburg, Pa.; and Hillary Callin Corey of Gainesville, Ga. He is also survived by his mother, Callie Corey of Vero Beach; his sister Judyth Corey Dawson of Gainesville; and his brother, Matthew Scott Corey of Tallahassee. In addition, he is survived by his niece, Sandra Lynn Frankenberger of Gainesville; his nephew, Mark Corey Frankenberger of Vero Beach; nephews Jacob Ashley Corey and Luke Gibson Corey of Tallahassee. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations designated for the healing ministry at The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, P O Box 677, Hayesville, NC 28904; or to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 1500 Rosecrans Avenue, Suite 200, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, or online at PanCan. org. You may sign the family guest book and send condolences on line at www. mountainviewfuneralhome.com.
Winfield Washington Lanier Winfield Washington Lanier, 86, died Feb. 4, 2012, in Vero Beach. He was born in Petersburg, Va., and lived in Vero Beach for 26 years, coming from Petersburg. He served in the Navy during World War II. He was a former member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and Vero Beach Yacht Club. He was a member of The Country Club of Petersburg and a former president of Richard’s Wine Cellar in Virginia. Survivors include his son, Clinton Lanier of Vero Beach; and two grandchildren.
Luther Mark Corey Luther Mark Corey, of Hiawassee, Ga., died Feb. 5, 2012, following a lengthy, battle with cancer. He was born to Luther M. and Callie Gibson Corey in Harlan, Ky. on Oct. 16, 1952. In 1956, he moved to Vero Beach where his father started Corey’s Pharmacy on the island portion of the town. Mark, as he was known, was a graduate of Vero Beach High School and the University of Florida. He be-
Douglas Nelson of Vero Beach; daughters, Patricia Von Laufen of Melbourne, and Cynthia Allgaier of Alexandria, La.; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Nelson was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jane, in 2010. Memorial contributions may be made to the Care Net Pregnancy Center, 1503 24th St., Vero Beach, Fla. 32960 in his memory. A memorial service will be held 1:30 p.m., Feb. 17 at Christ Church, 927 14th Lane, Vero Beach with the Rev. Creighton Evans officiating. An online guest book is available at www/strunkfuneralhome. com.
Thomas Donatelli Thomas Donatelli, 89, died Feb. 7, 2012, at Indian River Medical Center. He was born in New Jersey and moved to Vero Beach in 1955. He was an Army veteran having served in the 1st Calvary 13th Division during World War II. He was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Vero Beach. He also was one of the founding members of the Vero Beach Italian-American Club, lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Italian War Vets of Vero Beach. Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Darlene Donatelli; daughter, Jennifer Woodiwiss of Vero Beach; brothers, Mauro Donatelli and Robert Donatelli, both of New Jersey; and one greatgrandchild. A guestbook is available at www.lowtherfuneralhome.com.
Richard John Farb Richard John Farb, 55, died Jan. 30, 2012, at his home. He was born in Englewood, N.J., and lived in Vero Beach for 38 years, coming from Tenafly, N.J. Survivors include his parents, Pete and June Mitsakos; brothers, Peter and David Mitsakos, both of Vero Beach; sisters, Katherine Mitsakos of Connecticut and
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OBITUARIES
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Leona Steele
Leona Elizabeth Tilson Steele, 67, died Feb. 5, 2012, in Marion, Va. She was a resident of Marion and Vero Beach, Survivors include her husband, Samuel Bruce Steele; daughters, Tina English and Anita Cadenhead; son,
Janie Wallace Janie Keeling Wallace, 52, died Feb. 6, 2012 at Indian River Medical Center. She was born in Vero Beach and was a lifetime resident. She was a homemaker. She was a member of Haven Ministries of Vero Beach. Survivors include her husband, Robert Wallace; daughter, Caitlin Wallace of Vero Beach; sons, Michael Kinsler and Caleb Wallace, both of Vero Beach; mother, Mae Keeling of Vero Beach; brothers, Dwayne and Phillip Keeling, both of Vero Beach; and a grandchild. A guestbook is available at www.
Mahlon Pearsall Sr., 83, died Feb. 8, 2012, at the VNA Hospice House. He was born in Baldwin Harbor, N.Y., coming to Vero Beach 42 years ago from Long Island, N.Y. He was employed by Republic Aircraft, Long Island, until his retirement. Survivors include his son, Mahlon Pearsall Jr. of Vero Beach; daughters, Deborah Marino of Corning, N.Y., and Martha Lawson of Vero Beach; 11 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice Foundation, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960. A guestbook is available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.
Clinton Eugene Barton Jr. Clinton Eugene Barton Jr., 74, died Feb. 12, 2012, at VNA Hospice House, Vero Beach. He was born in Plainville, Mass., and had been a part-time resident of Vero Beach since 2011, coming from Lisbon, N.H. He served in the Army. He was of the Protestant faith. Before retirement, he was an engineer for Tyler Refrigeration for 15 years. Survivors include his daughters, Joanne Sandrey of Harwich, Mass.; Michelle Garrity of Fort Mill, S.C., and Siobhan Barton of Watertown, Mass.; sister, Margaretta Arnold of Deerfield Beach; and five grandchildren. MemoCONTINUES ON PAGE 46
N E W S W E E K L Y
Leona Steele
Esther M. Stege, 78, died Feb. 6, 2012 in Fort Pierce. She was born in Matteson, Ill., and lived in Vero Beach for 31 years, coming from Matteson. She ran Esther’s Catering for more than 20 years. She was a parishioner at Grace Lutheran Church. She was a member of the Evening Circle, greeted visitors and headed the kitchen administration for many years. Survivors include her husband of 57 years, Norbert P. Stege; sons, Larry M. Stege of Houston and Glenn N. Stege of Port St. Lucie; daughter, Lolita L. Moser of Batavia, Ill.; sister, Ella Eckhoff of Manteno, Ill.; brother, Martin Bruder of Matteson; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A guestbook is available at www. coxgiffordseawinds.com.
Mahlon Pearsall Sr.
B E A C H
Christian Lee, 78, died Feb. 3, 2012. He was born in Antelope, Mont., and lived in Vero Beach, coming from Oregon. He attended the University of Oregon. Before retiring, he was an aerospace engineer for Boeing Aircraft. He served in the Air Force during the Korean War. Survivors include his sons, Terry Lee of Shedd, Ore.,
Paul V. Rellias, 76, died Feb. 4, 2012, at his home. He was born in Normal, Ill., and moved to Vero Beach in 1996, from Windham, Maine. Before retirement, he worked for Central Maine Power Co. for 35 years as a field planner. He was a Coast Guard veteran. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Kathleen Achorn Rellias of Vero Beach; son, Paul D. Rellias of Jacksonville; daughter, Karen Rellias Glidden of Standish, Maine; brothers, Michael Williams of St. Louis, Mo., Gary Upton of Bloomington, Ill., and Fred Cook of Lincoln, Ill.; sisters, Susan Cale and Judy Harms, both of Lincoln; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association , P.O. Box 840692 Dallas, TX 75284-0692. A guest book is available at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.
Esther Stege
Chrissy Dowling, 75, died Feb. 7, 2012 at her home. She was born in Huntington, N.Y., coming to Vero Beach five years ago from Fort Pierce. She was a member of Reach Community Church in Fort Pierce and attended the American Legion, AMVETS and Elks Lodge in Vero Beach. Survivors include her sons, J.R. Leverock of New Jersey and Jerry Dowling of New York; daughters, Pamela A. Dowling of Fort Pierce and Faith Hahn of New York; brother, Bill Strothenke of New York; and three grandchildren. A guestbook is available at www. lowtherfuneralhome.com.
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Christian Lee
Paul V. Rellias
Eric Jason Hall, 42, died Feb. 4, 2012. He was born in Vero Beach and was a lifetime resident. He worked as a waiter in the restaurant industry, as well as a pool technician. Survivors include his daughter, Jade Ashleigh Hall of Sebastian; mother, Judy Carter of Vero Beach; father and stepmother, Bill and Kelly Hall of Vero Beach; and brother, Billy Hall of Vero Beach. A guestbook is available at www.lowtherfuneralhome.com.
Chrissy Dowling
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Beryl Ryden Kalix, 97, of Vero Beach, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 3, 2012. She is survived by her son, Martin (Barbara) Kalix of Sebastian; sister, Bettye Elliott of Oklahoma; granddaughter, Kimberly (Henry) McLaughlin of Vero Beach; grandsons, Todd Eikenberry of Safety Harbor, Troy (Susie) Eikenberry and family of Rochester, Ind., Trent (Regina) and family of Peru, Ind.; great grandsons, Joe Passanesi of Jensen Beach and Tyler McLaughlin of Vero Beach. She was an editor for the Reader’s Digest prior to retiring to Vero Beach and building Vero Beach Colony on Ocean Drive in the early 50’s. Later in her life, she worked at Butler Turner Advertising and was a smiling face at Alma Lee’s Children’s Shop. Mrs. Kalix was an avid golfer, bridge player and enjoyed her long time membership at the Vero Beach Country Club. Memorial donations may be sent to the VNA Hospice Foundation, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Robert M. Keefer, 59, died Jan. 23, 2012, at his home. He was born in Baltimore, Md., and lived in Vero Beach for 21 years, coming from Maryland. He was of the Presbyterian faith. Survivors include his daughter, Tina Keefer of Baltimore; mother, Beatrice Keefer of Baltimore; sister, Betty Sands of Cecil County, Md.; and four grandchildren. A guestbook is available at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.
Eric Hall
lowtherfuneralhome.com.
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Beryl Ryden Kalix
Robert Keefer
Gerald Steele; brother, Dwight Tilson; sister, Wilma Pruitt; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A guestbook is available at www.bradleysfh.com.
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Leona Elizabeth Tilson Steele, 67, died Feb. 5, 2012, in Marion, Va. She was a resident of Marion and Vero Beach, Survivors include her husband, Samuel Bruce Steele; daughters, Tina English and Anita Cadenhead; son, Gerald Steele; brother, Dwight Tilson; sister, Wilma Pruitt; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A guestbook is available at www.bradleysfh.com.
and Steve Lee and Scott Lee, both of Vero Beach; daughter, Cathy Wingate of Vero Beach; brothers, Gaylord of Eugene, Ore., and Loren of Springfield, Ore.; sister, Carmen; 13 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County, P.O. Box 644, Vero Beach, FL 32961. A guest book is available at www.lowtherfuneralhome.com.
F E B R U A R Y
Karen Foster of Vero Beach; son, Rick Farb of North Carolina; daughter, Kara Farb of Vero Beach; and one grandchild. A guest book is available at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.
V E R O
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Buy new to meet all industry standards While the market for resale homes has experienced significant increases over the last two years, according to Multiple Listing Services, issues stemming from resale products reveal certain advantages of newly built homes. Homes age quickly in Florida for two essential reasons: harsh environmental conditions and the need to comply with new wind and insurance codes. Code changes pre-dating the 2004 hurricanes and substantially upgraded in 2010 dictate the use of strict engineering materials such as concrete, steel enforcement, and strapping. Resales generally face a host of enhancements necessary to upgrade their compliance standards for insurance purposes. These items include such items such as roof inspections, code-approved hurricane shutters, garage door re-enforcement, and truss connections. New homes comply with the latest codes which dictate the use of Florida Code Approved windows, doors, hurricane devices, roof attachment, garage
doors, and structural engineering for the shell of the home. The use of these integral products greatly enhances the survivability of the home and dictates 140 mile per hour wind compliance with all aspects of the structure. Additionally, new homes often contain the latest product enhancements offered on the market, custom tailored to specific needs as well as structural and manufacturer’s warranties for AC equipment, plumbing fixtures, appliances, pool equipment, and paint. Most warranty labor and parts for ten years. In the present marketplace it becomes evident that a new home has much greater staying power than the older resale homes. Even after 10 years, a new home may still have warranties in place and hence an enhanced value for the home which also requires little remedial work. Many older resale homes are not compliant with current insurance wind codes, have likely surpassed warranty periods and may face extensive remodeling in order to modernize.
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46
OBITUARIES FROM PAGE 43
rial contributions can be made to VNA Hospice House, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960. A guest book is available at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.
William O’Dell Graves Sr. William O’Dell Graves Sr., 76, died Feb. 11, 2012, at home. He was born in Faceville, Ga., and lived in Vero Beach for 26 years, coming from Sorrento. He served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. He was a member of Riverview Baptist Church. He belonged to Sons of Confederate Veterans and was a member of the Hibiscus Club. Prior to retirement, he was an inspector for the Florida Department of Agriculture for 30 years.
Survivors include his wife of 55 1-2 years, Loretta Graves of Vero Beach; son, Charlie Graves of Vero Beach; daughter, Delilah Graves of Vero Beach; brother, Royce Graves of Murrayville, Ga.; and sister, Iris Allen of Summerville, S.C. Memorial contributions may be made to VNA Hospice House, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960; and Riverview Baptist Church, 4601 N. Old Dixie Highway, Fort Pierce, FL 34946. A guest book is available at www. coxgiffordseawinds.com.
Walter Loucks Walter Loucks, 69, died Feb. 13, 2012, at VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach. He was born in Elkhart, Ind., and lived in Vero Beach for six years, coming from Ohio. He was a grant
worker and volunteer at the Women’s Refuge in Vero Beach. Survivors include his sisters, Maria Sims of Davison, Ind., Barbara Lilly of Goshen, Ind., and Carol Gongwer of Oro Valley, Ariz.; and one brother, Paul Loucks of Bristol, Ind. Memorial contributions may be made to Women’s Refuge, 1850 Lemon Ave., Vero Beach, FL 32960. A guest book is available at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.
Urmila Niranjan Patel Urmila Niranjan Patel, 67, died Feb. 11, 2012, at the VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach. She was born in Nairobi, Kenya, and moved to Indian River County 32 years ago from London, England. Survivors include her husband of 42 years, Niranjan “Neil” Patel of Vero
Beach; two sons, Pritesh Patel and Alpesh Patel; two brothers, Ramesh Patel and Kirit Patel; three sisters, Manjula Patel, Sumi Patel and Pramila Patel; and five grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vedic Cultural Society, P.O. Box 13731, Fort Pierce, FL 34979-3731. A guest book is available at www.seawindsfh.com.
Eva Marie Tatulli Eva Marie Tatulli, 86, died Feb. 12, 2012, at the Consulate Health Care, Vero Beach. She was born in Hamburg, Germany, and lived in Vero Beach since 1978, coming from Fairfield, N.J. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Tatulli. Arrangements are by Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
Real Estate
B E A C H
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Barrier Island Real Estate Sales – February 2-February 8
V E R O
Address: Subdivision: List Date: List Price: Sell Date: Sell Price: Listing Broker: Listing Agent: Selling Broker: Selling Agent:
Address: Subdivision: List Date: List Price: Sell Date: Sell Price: Listing Broker: Listing Agent: Selling Broker: Selling Agent:
4121 Silver Palm Dr. Palms at Silver Palm 11/4/2010 $539,000 2/2/2012 $515,000 Alex MacWilliam, Inc. David Strupp Alex MacWilliam, Inc. David Strupp
9250 Spring Time Dr. Seasons 1/20/2011 $450,000 2/6/2012 $425,000 Dale Sorensen Real Estate, Inc. Carl Sciara Peters, Carlton & Mugford RE Ruth Spalding
Mainland Real Estate Sales – February 2-February 8 Address 11660 Indian River Dr.
Subdivision Other
List Date 3/24/2009
List Price $639,000
Sell Date 2/6/2012
Sell Price $560,000
Listing Broker/Agent RE/MAX Riverside/Skip Gray
Selling Broker/Agent RE/MAX Riverside/Skip Gray
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These and other animals are available for adoption at the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County located at 6230 77th Street. For directions and information call (772)388-3331
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