ST LUCIE WEST 12-07-2012

ST. LUCIE WEST • TRADITION

“I’m going to do everything in my power to see our teachers are paid better,” -Rep.Larry Lee Jr.

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Scientists in Tradition working to find HIV/AIDS cure

By Nicole Rodriguez Staff writer ST. LUCIE COUNTY — As millions across the globe commenced to mark World AIDS Day last week, Tradition medical researchers assembled locally to spread awareness about the incurable disease which infects more than 1 million in the U.S., including a reported 2,798 living with the disease in St. Lucie County, according to data by the Florida Department of Health.

During an AIDS awareness event in Fort Pierce on Dec. 1, Mel Rothberg, chief operating officer of the Vaccine & Gene Therapy Institute of Florida said finding a cure for the deadly disease is top priority at the research institution. Research-

ers at VGTI study the human immune system with the goal of preventing and treating infectious diseases, cancer and ailments that dispro-

portionately affect aging populations, Rothberg said.

“At VGTI, top scientists in the world are tirelessly trying to find a cure to avoid anyone ever being devastated by this disease,” Rothberg said at the sixth Annual World AIDS Day Remembrance Walk, organized

See AIDS page 8

Mitch Kloorfain/chief photographer Ford and Theo Julius, 5, both of Tradition watch over a science display at the Vaccine & Gene Therapy Institute booth at the World AIDS Day walk Saturday, Dec. 1 in Fort Pierce. VGTI is a leading researcher searching for a cure to AIDS and had several scientists speak at the HIV/AIDS Conference following the walk.

Baseball players hit home run for local children’s organization

Representative receives committee assignments

By Nicole Rodriguez Staff writer

By Nicole Rodriguez Staff writer

ST. LUCIE WEST — For the children at one local youth club, the New York and St. Lucie Mets are heroes on and off the field.

The major and minor league teams, who spring train and play in St. Lucie West, surprised the Boys & Girls Club of St. Lucie County with an early Christmas gift of $5,000 to save its year-old Chuck Hill Unit, which is in danger of closing its doors if $150,000 isn’t raised by the end of the year.

The Chuck Hill Unit, located on Northwest Marion Avenue in Port St. Lucie, serves 150 members. It costs the organization $1,000 a child annually and is kept as low as $10 per year for members who are on free or reduced lunch, club representatives said. The non-profit organization, which is dedicated to serving community youth by providing a safe

ST. LUCIE WEST — Since taking an oath to office last month, State House Rep. Larry Lee Jr., D-Fort Pierce/Port St. Lucie hasn’t stopped working to ensure the economic and social future is bright for his constituents in District 84, which includes St. Lucie West.

The PGA Village resident Larry Lee Jr. will serve on four committees in the Florida House of Representatives, including the Agriculture & Natural Resources subcommittee, as well as the

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Fighting SIDS A Port St. Lucie mother’s quest for answers

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Accidental Author

Crosby’s Career Shift not just ‘Spare Change’

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Mets x2

Gulf Coast Mets return to St. Lucie West

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‘Sister’ solves Magi Mystery Nun turns detective in Christmas comedy

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2 • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS

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Hearing Aid Ads Confusing You? A Clients True Story of Superior, Compassionate Service and Care

It was a hot night in July, 1995 when the world went completely dark for Rachel Guild. A passenger in a vehicle involved in a rollover crash on I-95, Rachel’s mom was told her daughter would likely only survive for hours, and Rachel was still in a coma when her best friend (another passenger in the car that fateful evening) was buried.

Seventeen years later, Rachel Guild is a testament to persistence, miracles, and caring professionals. Though completely blind as a result of the accident, Rachel lets absolutely nothing stand in her way, and she finds beauty in the way the world can be experienced through her remaining senses. As a matter of fact, that’s how Rachel became acquainted with Joe Mutter of Mutter’s Hearing in St. Lucie West.

not the way he is. I explain to Joe that if I am ever going to regain total independence, I need to be able to hear everything with great clarity.” For Rachel, the way that Mutter compassionately listened to her concerns, asked her questions about her needs, lifestyle, and was hesitant to make a sale simply for the sake of making a sale were the deciding factors in doing business with him. “I had consulted with other hearing aid dealers and I was very disappointed that their only concern was how I would be making payment,” Rachel says. “Joe was the opposite; he wasn’t just trying to make a sale he actually cared about me and my special needs!”

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evaluations and he utilizes state-of-the-art technology.

He even includes a hearing loss simulator to replicate for family members what their voices sound like to someone with a hearing loss because, of course, a hearing loss is invisible and affects every member of the family. “What I deal with is a very precious commodity – “my clients’ trust and their hearing,” says Mutter. “I care about my clients, not their pocketbook.”

Stop Chasing Deals That Don’t Exist Mutter’s Hearing Center is conveniently located at 1420 SW St. Lucie West Boulevard, just west of the Wells Fargo bank, in St. Lucie West. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available, as well as home visits can be arranged by appointment. Mutter’s Hearing Center will guide you through your insurance options and assist you with financing your hearing aids if necessary. The initial consultations and clinical evaluations are absolutely free. Call Mutter’s Hearing Center today at (772) 871-1222 to arrange a your free hearing consultation. Mutter’s Hearing Center has been voted the Readers Choice #1 Hearing Center in St. Lucie West since 2004 and is the ONLY full time hearing center in St. Lucie West.

One of the lesser injuries Rachel suffered as a result of the crash which claimed her best friend, Sarah, and her eyesight was some hearing loss due to scar tissue in her left ear. When some close friends told her about Joe and Mutter’s Hearing, Rachel and her mom set up a free clinical hearing evaluation with Joe, a Florida Licensed Deal With the OwnerHearing Aid Specialist and retired law He Can Make it Right enforcement officer with the St. Lucie County Sheriff ’s Office. Joe Being blind is difficult, but for Rachel was ranked Top Cop in the State Guild, losing her hearing would be of Florida by the Florida Fraternal so much worse. “I think it would be Order of Police and highly hona very lonely world,” she says. “Being ored for his accomplishments and deaf makes you feel so isolated; Commitment to the community everyone has a conversation going, Joe Mutter, H.A.S. and Client Rachel Guild through volunteerism. Mutter but when they try to talk to you, you Share a Moment at His St. Lucie West Office performed several tests on Rachel cannot understand them. It’s hard for to determine the level of her people who haven’t been there to rehearing loss and then broke the alize, but being able to participate in news. “He didn’t think I needed hearing aids,” Rachel Service • Care • Quality the conversation when your loved ones and friends are talking is a way to keep from being isolated and alone. said. “He said I had a mild hearing loss and it may I am so grateful to Joe and Mutter’s Hearing Center Service with integrity is something Joe Mutter believes in not be great enough to warrant the considerable for helping me rejoin the conversation and regain ardently. He encourages spouses and family members to expense that I would incur with hearing aids. Even my independence”. accompany their loved one for free clinical hearing though he could have easily made a big profit, that’s

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Mother sustains hunt for answers in infant’s death

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$ Photo courtesy of Anna Shindler Ethan James Cowen died in 2011 from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

His mother Anna Shindler of Port St. Lucie, established the Ethan James SIDS Foundation shortly after to honor her son and raise awareness about SIDS. take more precautions.”

Shindler said community members can help by putting teams together and spreading the word about the walk. Shindler is also asking local businesses to spare a few items for the day, including a bounce house, DJ, snacks and water for the runners.

Shindler added although she’s preoccupied planning the impending walk, the anguish doesn’t dull, but becomes manageable over time with the more awareness she spreads and families she touches.

“I still cry over my little boy every day. One day it will get easier to breathe,” Shindler said. “But if pain is all I have left to know he was here, I’ll take it.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website, SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants age 1 to 12 months, and

See SIDS page 7

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TRADITION­— Almost a year after her infant son’s unexplained death, one local mother continues her quest for answers. Port St. Lucie resident Anna Shindler, 28, hopes her second annual Ethan James Memorial 5K Walk in Tradition will help raise money for research and get her one step closer to finding out why her son’s life ended so prematurely.

The single mother’s son, Ethan James Cowen, was a bubbly 5-month-old with an infectious gummy smile and no symptoms of health problems, his mother said. On May 11, 2011, Ethan went down for a nap on his back at his babysitter’s house and never woke up. Shindler said Ethan’s official cause of death was ruled as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS. “This can happen to anyone, even if they take the recommended precautions. I used the SIDS monitor with Ethan,” Shindler said.

The inaugural Ethan James Foundation walk garnered $5,000 last year. All of its proceeds went to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome research at Children’s Hospital in Boston, Shindler said.

This year, 100 percent of funds raised by Shindler’s recently renamed charity, the Ethan James SIDS Foundation, also will go toward research at the hospital.

Shindler anticipates the renamed foundation will be deemed a 501(c)(3) in the coming months, so that donations can be made online. Her monetary goal for the walk is any amount over $5,000.

“The goal is always research. I don’t want anyone to go through what I did,” Shindler said. “I had a beautiful, bubbly baby God gave me – and one day he stopped breathing and you don’t know why.”

“The only way you’ll know why is if you find a cause and then a cure,” Shindler said. “Hopefully, there will be a test so you can

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LEE from page 1 Education Appropriations, Insurance & Banking, and Regulatory Affairs committees.

Education Appropriations Committee First on Lee’s agenda is teacher pay, he said.

“I’m going to do everything in my power to see our teachers are paid better,” Lee said. “Florida as a whole ranks 47th in the country for teacher pay. That is unacceptable.”

Although he admits he has his work cut out for him, he believes a pay increase would greatly in-

crease the quality of education.

“If we want a world-class school district, teachers need funding to work with and provide for students,” Lee said. “I’m told teachers are using their personal funds to buy supplies. That shouldn’t be happening.”

It’s also Lee’s dream to create a successful education system that provides rigorous and competitive academics, especially in science, math and engineering.

“We’re lagging behind other countries,” Lee said. “We also need increased funding in vocation and technical training because not everyone goes to college.”

Lee serves on the committee with 12 other representatives,

including three other Democrats and nine Republicans. Although he’s outnumbered in every state house committee he was appointed to, the Democrat said his Republican counterparts are eager to work together.

“I talked to members from both parties in Tallahassee,” Lee said.

“They’re tired of all the bickering and bipartisanship. They want solutions and said we need to work together.”

Insurance & Banking Committee The 25-year insurance veteran plans to use his expertise in the industry to push bills and make amendments to law that advocate

www.YourVoiceWeekly.com for affordable property insurance for Floridians.

“Raising the rates is not the answer,” Lee said. “I plan to use my platform to make insurance available and affordable. We’ll have to come up with creative ways to cover homeowners in Florida.”

Lee is one of four Democrats on the 13-member committee.

Regulatory Affairs Committee Lee’s main focus is to create jobs, plain and simple, he said.

To do so, Lee said he plans to work with existing technology on the Treasure Coast to officially

See LEE page 16

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4 • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS

YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • 5

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For author, craft is ever-evolving

Bette Lee Crosby We loved the area. It was not at all crowded, just this wonderful little spot on Earth.”

While living in Florida, Crosby spent several years as a consultant for a firm up North, traveling there for meetings when she had to. It was a short-term project, and when it ended, she looked for a change.

“All of my career, I wrote for business,” she said. “It was cut to the chase, get to the point. It

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was a huge learning curve when I switched to fiction. I used to write for trade magazines and enjoyed working with words. People would say that I ought to write a book.

I said I had nothing to write about.”

One day, she was riding an exercise bicycle and watching the news.

“My mind started to wander,” she said. “I came up with thoughts for a book and started writing, first a few sentences and

then pages. I was on my way.”

You won’t find this book in stores or online.

“It’s a book that will never see the light,” Crosby said. “I wrote five books before I wrote one that became popular. One of them, “What Matters Most,” won a 2006 National League of American Pen Women award for unpublished fiction. It will be published this year.

That first book that became popular, “Girl Child,” was published in 2007. It won the Pen Women’s first-place prize in adult fiction and was recently re-released as “The Twelfth Child.”

Still, Crosby said, her audience was loyal but limited.

“People liked them, but the universe was very small,” she said. “When I went exclusive with Amazon, they did a promotion for “Spare Change” and things took off. No one was more amazed than I was.”

Crosby said that her success is the result of years of learning her craft.

“I do literary fiction,” she said.

“It’s character-driven. You have to be deep-down inside that character. Otherwise, if it doesn’t ring true to you, it won’t ring true to

See CROSBY page 14

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ST. LUCIE WEST — Bette Lee Crosby didn’t set out to be an award-winning author. The writer of “Spare Change” and “Cracks in the Sidewalk” was an advertising executive for many years. After a stint with a department store, she and her husband, Richard, opened their own agency in their native New Jersey.

“It was a lot of fun and we enjoyed it,” she said. “He was from Wall Street and his heart was there, so he went back to it.

I went in-house with one of our clients as marketing director. It was a move that was right at the time for both of us.”

The couple spent vacations on Hutchinson Island and by the late 1990s, they were ready to move to Florida.

“I was between jobs,” Crosby said. “Dick wanted to continue working, but he could do it as long as we were in one place. We liked the warm weather. Dick’s a golfer and he said, ‘Not on this side of the bridge. It’s always up when I have a tee time.’”

The pair came up to the Treasure Coast to play golf and decided to look around.

“We were just on a vacation, but we bought a house on a whim,” Crosby said. “We ordered furniture and drove back home.

6 • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS

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Through the wall of defensive

VIEW

St. Lucie West Centennial Eagle’s full back, Dominque Labrador makes her way through the Fort Pierce Central defense to assist Nicole Cannela’s goal against the Cobras. The Eagles won the match 5-0 Wednesday, Nov. 28.

Mitch Kloorfain chief photographer

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Ava Nickel, 10 months, of St. Lucie West let Santa know in her own special way what she really wanted for Christmas during the start of the Christmas season in Tradition Saturday, Nov. 1. Santa will greet mostly happy children each Saturday from 6-8 pm up until the Friday, Dec. 21 as the final night before Christmas.

Mitch Kloorfain chief photographer

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Tips to reduce the risk of SIDS Always place baby on his or her back to sleep. Placing baby on his or her back to sleep is the number one way to reduce the risk of SIDS. Place baby on a firm sleep surface, such as a safety-approved crib mattress covered with a fitted sheet. Never place a baby to sleep on a pillow, quilt, sheepskin, or other soft surface.

Keep soft objects, toys, and loose bedding out of baby’s sleep area.

Avoid letting baby overheat during sleep. Dress baby in light

sleep clothing and keep the room at a temperature that is comfortable for an adult.

Do not allow smoking around baby before or after birth.

Keep baby’s sleep area close to, but separate from, where you and others sleep. Baby should not sleep in a bed or on a couch or armchair with adults or other children, but he or she can sleep in the same room as you.

Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

More information What: Second annual Ethan James Memorial 5K Walk to support SIDS research When: Jan. 12. Registration begins at 9 a.m. The walk starts at 10:30 a.m.

Where: Tradition Square Cost: $15 per person. All proceeds will go to SIDS research at Children’s Hospital in Boston.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the Ethan James SIDS Foundation, call (772) 971-4030.

Photo courtesy of Anna Shindler Walkers brave cold temperatures during the Ethan James Memorial Walk last January in Tradition. The second annual event, which aims to raise funding for SIDS research, is set for Jan. 12 in Tradition Square.

SIDS from page 3 is the third-leading cause overall of infant mortality in the United States. SIDS is defined as “the sudden death of an infant less than 1 year of age that cannot be explained after a thorough investigation is conducted, including a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene, and review of the clinical history.”

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8 • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS

Defining AIDS What is HIV?

HIV: Human Immunodeficiency Virus H - Human - virus can only infect human beings I - Immuno-deficiency - failure of the bodies immune system to work properly V – Virus - one of its characteristics is that it is incapable of reproducing by itself. It reproduces by taking over the machinery of the human cell.

What is AIDS?

AIDS: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome AIDS is the most serious stage of HIV infection. It results from the destruction of the infected person’s immune system.

A- Acquired: passed from one person to another I- Immune: the body’s defense system against disease D- Deficiency: lack/shortage of

AIDS from page 1 by several local health organizations including the AIDS Research and Treatment Center of the Treasure Coast which treats 850 HIV/ AIDS patients. “The research this past year has been remarkable.

We’re managing it by the regimen of medications. To think the identification of HIV was made only 30 years ago.”

John Schatzle, researcher and director of scientific operations at VGTI said a major breakthrough occurred in 2009 when VGTI researchers discovered the virus hides in memory T cells. These cells form and live for a lifetime in the human body after the immune system successfully fights a virus or receives a vaccine. They essentially remember a virus and outsmart it for the next bout, Schatzle said.

“Ironically, these are the same cells that are there to protect you,” Schatzle said.

Schatzle said researchers are

or breakdown S- Syndrome: a combination of symptoms and diseases

HIV and AIDS Facts • A person infected with HIV may not show symptoms for five to 10 years. People who look completely healthy can still have HIV. • HIV can always be passed to others, even if they have no symptoms of AIDS. • Once HIV begins to destroy the body’s immune system, the affected person progresses through different phases of AIDS until they die.

MET KIDS from page 1

Worldwide, more than 90 percent of all adolescent and adult HIV infections have resulted from heterosexual intercourse.

How is HIV/AIDS contracted?

Everyone who practices unsafe sex, has a pre-existing STD, or uses IV drugs is at high risk for contracting HIV/AIDS.

The big four: Exchange of bodily Fluids 1. Sexual Contact (vaginal, oral, anal); does not include casual kissing (unless open mouth sores are present) 2. Sharing Hypodermic Needles through IV drug use 3. Mother to infant transmission: In utero exchange, during birth, or through breast-feeding after birth 4. Less commonly (and now very rarely in countries where blood is screened for HIV antibodies), through transfusions of infected blood or blood clotting factors Source: Florida Department of ­ Health website

trying to find a way to eliminate the virus without killing the cells, which are needed to live.

“Right now we’re partnering with pharmaceutical companies to test drugs and compounds,” said Schatzle, who added the compounds are confined to test tubes right now. “If those are successful within the next five to six years, the FDA will approve them and we can begin testing them on small animals.”

Hazel Hoylman, executive director of the Fort Pierce-based In the Image of Christ said while researchers strive for a cure, her charity is determined to stop new cases.

The organization offers charitable services, health programs, educational training, and prevention outreach to address health disparities in St. Lucie County.

Hoylman said the only way to stop the spread is to know one’s status and alert intimate partners.

“We want people to know HIV is 100 percent preventable,” Hoylman said.

Hoylman and her team of volun-

teers regularly conduct free and confidential HIV/AIDS tests with instant results. Hoylman said since AIDS is no longer necessarily a death sentence, people are not taking the deadly disease as seriously, which is alarming.

“I’ve had people tell me that HIV/ AIDS is like diabetes,” Hoylman said.

She said when a test comes back positive, the scene is heart wrenching.

“Most of them are speechless and break down into tears,” Hoylman said. “They’re devastated and say they’re going to die.”

Hoylman said complete abstinence also is the key to stopping the spread. She added it’s vital that couples practice monogamy and should use protection until both partners test negative twice during a sixth-month period.

“Complete abstinence means abstinence from drugs and alcohol, because you don’t think clearly,” Hoylman said. “And couples have to use condoms consistently and every, single time.”

Who is at risk for HIV/AIDS?

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place to learn, grow and enhance character development, currently serves 4,200 kids, ages 5 to 18 in St. Lucie County, representatives said.

Executive director Norman Penner said unusually low donations in recent months have made the situation dire. He added the unit’s members were thrilled by the team’s contribution.

“The Mets making a donation is one of the most exciting things the kids have experienced,” Penner said. “They love baseball and the players are like heroes to the kids. It’s a great connection.”

Penner said the generous gesture exemplifies the national pledge Major League Baseball has made to ensure bright futures for children who find refuge in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America across the country.

“It’s kind of a spinoff of the terms of the commitment the MLB makes to our national and local clubs,” said Penner, who added MLB regularly promotes and advertises for the Boys & Girls Club during nationally televised games. “The MLB has contributed millions of dollars to the Boys & Girls Club.”

The team’s director of Florida operations said he hopes the donation will help keep the unit’s doors open.

“If the unit closed, it would have a negative effect on the community,” Paul Taglieri said. “I see all of the positive things the Boys & Girls Club does across the county. It keeps kids off the streets.

These kids are our future.”

Penner said the Mets donation pushed the fundraising effort to a grand total of $60,000. He anticipates it will be enough to keep the unit open and spare the unit’s three full-time and seven part-time staffers. If the $150,000 mark is met by Dec. 31, St. Lucie County Sheriff Ken Mascara and City Councilman Jack Kelly agreed to shave their signature facial hair and go completely

See MET KIDS page 14

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Mets to welcome back Gulf Coast team ST. LUCIE WEST — The popular phrase in baseball in regard to playing double-headers is “let’s play two.”

After baseball news dropped down from New York recently, the

phrase locally should change to “let’s host two.”

On Nov. 8, the New York Mets announced that the team will add a second Port St. Lucie minor league affiliate. The Gulf Coast Mets will join the St. Lucie Mets of the Florida State League as baseball residents at Mets Stadium.

The Mets, an organization whose financial hardships have been widely documented since 2009 following reports that they were among the victims of a massive Ponzi scheme run by Bernie Madoff, dropped their Gulf Coast League affiliate in 2012 for financial reasons.

The return of the Gulf Coast Mets is being linked to the fiveyear collective bargaining agreement the owners and players passed in 2011.

“The new CBA has accelerated the signing of players from the Draft,” general manager Sandy Alderson said in a press release.

“And with the continuation of two teams in the Dominican Summer League, we need more rookie level roster space for our young players.”

“We are happy to be back in the Gulf Coast League while retaining our affiliation in Kingsport of the Appalachian League.”

As one of nine minor league affiliates, the Gulf Coast Mets will serve as a landing spot for rookies.

After spending their first five

Mitch Kloorfain/chief photographer The Met’s stadium in St. Lucie West will be the home to the Gulf Coast Mets in addition to the St. Lucie Mets this spring. years (1983, 1988-91) in Sarasota, the Gulf Coast Mets have spent most of their existence in Port St. Lucie (1992-99, 20042011) under the managerial guidance of former major leaguers Sandy Alomar Jr., Julio Franco, Mickey Brantley, Brett Butler and the late Hall of Famer, Gary Carter.

For residents in Port St. Lucie and the neighboring cities, this transaction allows for more opportunities to see professional baseball being played nearby from March to September.

“I was excited when I got wind of the news,” Lunie Montuna, a resident of St. Lucie West, said. “I have a 5-year-old son and 4-yearold daughter and they have a great time whenever we go to the stadium to see the Mets play.”

“They’re kids, so they can be restless, but they have a good time at the ballpark, especially my son, who loves the game of baseball.”

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The 2013 spring training schedule for the New York Mets: Saturday, Feb. 23, Washington Nationals - Port St. Lucie, 1:10 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 24 University of Michigan - Port St. Lucie, 12:10 p.m.

Houston Astros - Kissimmee TBA Monday, Feb. 25, Washington Nationals - Port St. Lucie, 6:10 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 26, Miami Marlins - Jupiter, 1:05 p.m.

Wedneday. Feb. 27, St. Louis Cardinals - Port St. Lucie, 1:10 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 28, Washington Nationals - Viera, 6:05 p.m.

Friday, March 1, Detroit Tigers Port - St. Lucie, 1:10 p.m.

Saturday, March 2, Miami Marlins Port - St. Lucie, 1:10 p.m.

Sunday, March 3, Miami Marlins - Jupiter 1:05 p.m.

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YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • 11

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Fort Pierce Central Football team still champions despite loss

By Nicole Rodriguez Staff writer

Fort Pierce — Despite a 51-0 shutout to Bradenton-Manatee in the Region 3-7A final in front of a crowd of 4,326 at Lawnwood Stadium last week, former Fort Pierce Central football player and team mentor Rev. Kenneth Mills Sr., 58, still considers the Cobras champions.

The St. Lucie West resident, who is no stranger to winning, was a quarterback and defensive safety on the high school’s 1971 undefeated state championship team – a feat future generations of Cobras have yet to conquer. Mills said what the players accomplish off the field is what really dictates victory.

“If they win or lose by 100 points or one point, the score doesn’t matter as long as they could raise their helmets high in the air after the game,” Mills said during a fellowship meal he shared with the team the eve before the big game.

“The life lesson is for them to realize and know they will represent this community for the rest of their lives. They’ll represent three very important entities: their family, their community and

themselves,” said Mills, who is the associate pastor at Miracle Prayer Temple Worship Center in Fort Pierce. “They need to carry with them the character that’s been built for them to be on the stage during the game.”

Sophomore center Andrew Guthart of St. Lucie West took Mills’ advice to heart and expressed gratitude for his support.

“It means a lot that the former players are behind us,” Guthart said. “It gives us the feeling that we could be successful, too.”

Fort Pierce resident Cleaver Hayling, 57, navigated the 1971 team to their victory as the quarterback. Hayling said one similarity between the two teams is the unbreakable brotherhood both exemplify.

“The relationships transcend … the field,” Hayling said.

Hayling, who is an office manager for the law firm of Fort Pierce City Commissioner Reginald B. Sessions, urged the team to grow from the journey.

“The football is going to fade away,” Hayling said. “What’s important is they become positive citizens that contribute to their families and their community.”

Nicole Rodriguez/staff photo Rev. Kenneth Mills, Former Fort Pierce Central quarterback and defensive safety from the undefeated team of 1971, leads this year’s team in prayer the eve before the Region 3-7A final game on Nov. 30. Central lost the game 51-0 against Bradenton-Manatee.

Junior quarterback Sam Vaughn said he one day hopes to follow in Mills and Hayling’s footsteps as a positive role model.

“Mr. Hayling told me 40 years goes by in the blink of an eye,”

Vaughn said. “I would like to come back here after I’ve made a name for myself. I want to accomplish my goals and come back to help my community.”

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YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • 13

United Way honors Seacoast

For Your Voice News & Views Seacoast National Bank was recognized recently by the United Way of St. Lucie County with the Paul J. Hiott Award for community volunteerism at the nonprofit’s annual Spirit of St. Lucie Awards breakfast. The award, presented by William Thiess, director of utilities with the Fort Pierce Utilities Authority, recognizes a company or organization that best demonstrates excellence in encouraging and recognizing community involvement Photo Courtesy of Seacoast National Bank and volunteerism of their employ- Amy Brunjes, FPL; William Thiess, Fort Pierce Utilities Authority; Terri Sloan-Bartz, St. Lucie County Regional Manager, Seacoast ees and business within St. Lucie National Bank; Tom Wilkinson, President/CEO, Treasure Coast, Seacoast National Bank, and Monte Koskoff, United Way, at the County.

Spirit of St. Lucie Awards breakfast.

In recognizing Seacoast’s out1:10 p.m.

METS from page 10 standing commitment to the community, Thiess Monday, March 18, St. Louis noted that in addition to Seacoast’s extensive comCardinals - Jupiter, 1:05 p.m.

Marlins - Port St. Lucie, mitment to the United Way, Seacoast associates serve Wednesday, March 20, Houston 1:10 p.m. as board members, committee members and volunAstros - Kissimmee, TBA Friday, March 8, Detroit Tigers teers with more than 26 nonprofit organizations in Lakeland 1:05, p.m.

Thursday, March 21, St. Louis St. Lucie County alone.

Saturday, March 9, Houston Cardinals - Port St. Lucie, Astros - Port St. Lucie, 1:10 p.m.

“We are very proud of our Seacoast associates and 1:10 p.m.

Friday, March 22, Miami acknowledge that this award was given based on the Sunday, March 10, St. Louis Marlins - Jupiter, 7:05 p.m. work they do,” said Tom Wilkinson, president/CEO, Cardinals - Jupiter, 1:05 p.m.

Saturday, March 23, Washington Treasure Coast.

Monday, March 11, Detroit Nationals - Port St. Lucie, 1:10 p.m.

“We are proud of where we work, and proud of what Tigers - Lakeland, 1:05 p.m.

Sunday, March 24, Detroit Tigers we all do in the communities where we live and work.

Wednesday, March 13, Port St. Lucie, 1:10 p.m.

This embodies our corporate promise of investing in Washington Nationals Viera, St. Louis Cardinals - Jupiter, our communities and our people.”

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Seacoast National Bank sweeps Best Places to Work awards

of Tradition LLC.

For Your Voice News & Views Seacoast National Bank has been honored with a Best Places to Work 2012 award in all three Treasure Coast counties Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River, by The Human Resource Association of Martin County. The Human Resource Association of St. Lucie County and Workforce Development in Indian River County.

Seacoast National Bank is the only bank to receive this triple honor.

“One of the major tenets of our business practice is to not only treat our customers with care and respect every day, but to also treat our employees with care and respect,” said Chuck Olsson, chief talent officer at Seacoast National Bank.

“We are proud that we provide

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the audience. What’s the story if you don’t start at one end of the spectrum and end up at the other? If characters don’t change, there’s no story. People will fall in love with your story if they care about the characters.”

Crosby enjoys talking to readers and will do teleconferences for book clubs and other groups. If the group is local, she will make an appearance if her schedule permits.

“I love doing that,” she said. “It lets you get in touch with your readers. It’s always interesting because they’ve already read the book.”

For aspiring writers who wonder how they can make their own writing more compelling, Crosby offered several pieces of advice.

the best class training in trends and technologies, as well as networking sessions for our business managers, and we encourage employee participation as active volunteers within the communities where they live and work.

This commitment to our staff, we believe, impacts employee performance and enhances our associates’ lives outside of the office.”

Seacoast National Bank is the operating arm of Seacoast Banking Corporation of Florida (NASDAQ: SBCF). With over $2 billion in assets and 38 branches from Orlando to Palm Beach Gardens and south central Florida, it is one of the largest community banks headquartered in Florida.

For more information, visit the bank’s website at www.SeacoastNational.com.

“Be true to yourself,” she said.

“Find what’s in your heart and write about it. My work has grown so much as I go deeper in myself to feel what the character feels. Understanding your character and motivation is crucial.

“Edit, edit, edit. There’s no such thing as just sitting down and writing a great story. I’m sure I could sit down and edit the Bible. Sometimes it’s a word or sentence, but you make your story better. You get out of it what you put into it.”

For more information about Bette Crosby, visit her website www. betteleecrosby.com.

Groups wishing to request an appearance by Ms. Crosby should contact Bent Pine Publishing at (772) 249-0022.

MET KIIDS from page 8 bald.

But the good news isn’t void of some drawbacks, Penner said.

“This will help us preserve the club, but we’ll have to scale back some of the programs we wanted to provide next year,” Penner said, adding that each of its 18 locations within the county will feel the impact.

“Closing would have been disastrous.”

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YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • 15

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16 • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS

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Treasure Coast wrestling is back after hiatus

By Patrick Bernadeau Staff writer PORT ST. LUCIE — After spending two years off the map, the Treasure Coast Titans return to the wrestling mat.

The Titans will compete in the three-team 3A-9 district, which includes familiar foes St. Lucie West Centennial and Vero Beach. The team will field students in 14 weight classes, ranging from 106 to 285 pounds.

Treasure Coast High School could not find coaches capable of performing the complex job.

“Two years ago, we had to drop wrestling because the lack of quality wrestling coaches out there to apply for the job,” Treasure Coast athletic director Dan Comeau said. “Wrestling is a unique sport, it’s very physical and you just can’t throw anyone out there to coach.”

“Wrestling is a highly skilled sport. Kids can get hurt and you got to have a very technical guy to coach that sport.”

Enter into the scenario David Searfoss, who wrestled during his time as an E-5 sergeant for the Army in the Gulf War: Operation Desert Storm. Searfoss, who initially moved this year from Indiana to Port St. Lucie only to teach, jumped at the opportunity to be the Titans wrestling coach.

“I wasn’t aware that there was an opening until I got down here,” Titans head wrestling coach Searfoss said.

“When I got down here, I was asked if I had experience wrestling and if I’d be interested in starting this program.”

“I thought it over, talked with my wife and decided I’d give it what I could do.”

Searfoss understands the learning curve is steep. Only two of his kids had any kind of wrestling background. A wide range of basics needed to be taught, from how to start a match and the proper positioning to hygiene and infectious diseases. Despite lack of experience, Searfoss is happy with the progress of his

LEE from page 4 transform the area into the state’s premier Research Coast.

“With this economy, we must diversify our job options,” Lee said. “Research is one way to do that.”

Lee said he plans to work hand in hand with friend and former Sen. Ken Pruitt to continue Pruitt’s effort to bring innovative research centers to the area, citing examples like Tradition research and medical giants VGTI, Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Mann Research Center and Tradition Medical Center, which is expected to open in early 2014.

wrestlers.

“The wrestling techniques have come a long way since the beginning,” Searfoss said.

“I only had two students who had actually been on a wrestling mat previously, but I’ve got athletic kids who want to learn.”

“What we’ve done is we’ve baby-step the wrestlers with the basics and the students have taken off from there.”

Since this program is new, bumps along the road are expected, but the goal is just to move forward.

“Because of the lack of experience we have this year, one of the things that I’m looking for is that I want to see the progression in the moves,” Searfoss said. “If I yell a move, I want the kids to perform a move without having to think.”

Agriculture & Natural Resources subcommittee Lee said he plans to use existing natural resources in St. Lucie County including interstates, railways and ports to create more jobs and strengthen the ever-present agriculture the area thrives on.

“I’m extremely pleased to be a part of this subcommittee,” Lee said. “Agriculture is already a major force of employment.”

The Agriculture & Natural Resources subcommittee committee includes five Democrats and eight Republicans.

In their first tournament on Nov. 17, the Treasure Coast junior varsity placed third out of nine teams in the Battle of the Fort in Fort Pierce.

Contact Rep. Larry Lee Jr.: By mail: 1401 The Capitol, 402 S. Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32399 By phone: (805) 717-5084By email: myfloridahouse.gov

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‘Sister’ solves mystery of Magi gold FORT PIERCE — Mary Zentmyer isn’t a nun, but she has played one since 1996. That was the year in which she auditioned for Maripat Donovan, author of the original “Late Nite Catechism.”

“I was hired as an understudy,” Zentmyer said. “That was when the show just started taking off. I was only an understudy, but suddenly I was on.”

The Chicago native performed in the show for 18 months before taking a break.

“It’s amazing,” she said. “I can go away from it and come back and it’s still going strong.”

Zentmyer brings the latest

CrOSSwOrD CLUES ACROSS 1. German rapper 4. Aries sign 7. Atmosphere 8. Send payment for 10. Digs 12. Pathetically weak 13. Give a thrashing to

“Sister” saga to the Sunrise Theatre from Dec. 14-16 when she appears in “Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold.”

“Sister fancies herself a forensics buff,” Zentmyer said. “She likes those shows on TV. When she sees the Nativity scene, she wonders why, if the Magi had gold, why couldn’t anyone get a room? She wonders who stole the Magi’s gold. She poses the question to the audience and uses forensics techniques drawn from TV shows.”

While Zentmyer, as Sister, is the central performer, there is a

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See SISTER page 19 Mary Zentmyer stars as Sister in ‘Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold,’ at the Sunrise Theatre’s Black Box Theatre from Dec. 14-16.

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2096 N.W. Courtyard Circle, Port St. Lucie.

For more information, call (772) 878-8844.

City Limits Sports Bar Live music or DJ 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

900 S.W. Gatlin Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 336-8201.

CharDognay Live music 7 p.m. 224 Orange Ave., Fort Pierce. For more information, call (772) 324WINE.

CharDognay Bike night and live music 7 p.m. 224 Orange Ave., Fort Pierce. For more information, call (772) 324-WINE.

Neely’s Grog House Karaoke 9 p.m.-1 a.m. 802 S.W. Bayshore Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 249-4195.

Rebar Karaoke 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m.

8283 S. Federal Highway, Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 340-7777.

Mickey Finns Live music 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

269 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie.

For more information, call (772) 873-5522.

La Zen Nightclub Ladies Night 10 p.m.- 2 a.m.

464 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd, Port St. Lucie.

For more information, call (772) 807-9992.

60 Proof Live music every night. Open Mic Night on Thursday. 338 Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 344-3213.

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772-201-5229 $

SW Berry ave. Palm City

1154

Call FoR DetailS

Specializing in: Wash & Wax Buffing & Waxing Interior Shampoo Licensed & Insured Headlight Restoration

AUCTION! AUCTION! AUCTION! ESTATE SALES • CLOSE OUTS • FUND RAISERS

Auction Every Thursday Night 4252 Bandy Blvd., Fort Pierce

Visit auctionzip.com Auction I.D. # 15249 AU3368

772-971-9231

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– ASSET AUCTION SERVICES –

AB2476

2500 week

1213-SLW

On-Line Computer Repair

$

79

00

Tune-Up, Virus Removal

Remote Only!

Special

No Need to Haul Your Computer to a Shop

1-877-499-5548

ACADIANA

Private transPortation service to all Florida airPorts, Ports & sPecial events Toll Free: 866-786-9979 • Local: 772-489-0900 www.LetUsDrive4U.com

Computerworks, Inc. • Repairs • Networking • Trouble Shooting

“Sunny”

772-485-2190

DESIGN / BUILD LANDSCAPE

Synthetic turf ProjectS

GRADUATION & SENIOR PHOTOS Now Excepting New Appointments - cAll TodAy FoR youR TiME -

772-359-1651

Fine Dining & Full Cocktail Bar 101 2nd Street The Corner of Orange Ave. and 2nd Street

Putting Greens • Dog Areas • Playgrounds • Lawns • Patio Serving the Treasure Coast Since 1985

772-283-4123

JAYS floors & more

Your Ad Here

from as $ Low as

24-7 service

PC & MAC

1183

1216

MOBILE SERVICE

772-215-2953

Sundays

Bogey’s and Stogeys Karaoke 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

1032 S.E. Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie.

For more information, call (772) 337-7778.

AdvantageComputersol.com

772-260-1874 Dale Eubank

150 $ Full ....... 300

La Zen Nightclub DJ 10 p.m.- 2 a.m. 464 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 807-9992.

Business and Professional Services

Stalls for Rent Partial ....

Rebar DJ 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m.

8283 S. Federal Highway, Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 340-7777.

inc.

GRANITE &CABINETS FREE ESTiMATES

772-335-3000

1182

Visit

www.financialfreedomcash.com

The Original Tiki Bar Live music after 5 p.m. 2 Avenue A, Fort Pierce. For more information, call (772) 4610880.

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Work at Home Opportunity

La Zen Nightclub Live music and DJ 10 p.m.- 2 a.m. 464 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 807-9992.

CharDognay Live music 7 p.m. 224 Orange Ave., Fort Pierce. For more information, call (772) 324WINE.

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Legitimate

Rebar DJ 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m.

8283 S. Federal Highway, Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 340-7777.

Shindig Irish Restaurant & Pub Live music 9:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m.

464 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie.

For more information, call (772) 785-6202.

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Shindig Irish Restaurant & Pub Acoustic Vibes by Jason Montero 9:30 p.m.11:30 p.m. 464 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 785-6202.

City Limits Sports Bar Live music or DJ 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m. 900 S.W. Gatlin Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 336-8201.

772-466-5474

Call: 772-204-2409 for Advertising information

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Mickey Finns Ladies Night 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

269 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd., Port St. Lucie.

For more information, call (772) 873-5522.

Text the Editor (772) 675-6330

YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • 19

Community Calendar Winter Wonderland Light Show Port St. Lucie Community Center. 7 p.m.- 9 p.m.

Free. Drive or walk by to see the light and sound experience.

Display takes place every night the Community Center is open, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., now through Jan. 2. 2195 S.E. Airoso Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 878-2277.

Bird watching cruise Departs at 4:30 p.m. on Fridays, from Rivergate Park, 2200 S.E. Midport Road, Port St. Lucie.

Private charters are available, and reservations are required.

For more information, call (772) 489-8344.

Friday sunset cruise at Rivergate Park. Boat leaves at 4 p.m. from 2200 S.E. Veterans Memorial Parkway, Port St. Lucie. Cost: $18.78. Enjoy dining afterward at nearby restaurants.

For more information, call (772) 489-8344.

Feeding Frenzy tour at the St. Lucie County Aquarium featuring the Smithsonian Marine Exhibit. Watch underwater residents enjoy their morning meal. A volunteer or staff person will provide information on the Exhibit’s daily menu, as well as share stories and provide insight on the area’s constantly changing ecosystems. Feeding Frenzy tours are free with paid admission. 420 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce. For more information, call (772) 462-FISH.

Saturday, Dec. 8 Santa Claus at the Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens Noon to 2 p.m. Free. Pictures with Santa, cookie decorating, crafts and carols sung by the German American Club choir. 2410 S.E. Westmoreland Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 337-1959.

Community Green Market at the Port St. Lucie Civic Center.

Rain or shine. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Locally grown fruits and vegetables, seafood, fresh baked goods and arts and crafts. Free admission and parking. 9221 S.E. Civic Center Place, Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 465-5658.

Patriot Productions Gun Show at the St. Lucie County Fairgrounds 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $6. 15601 W. Midway Road, Fort Pierce. For more information, visit patriotshow. com

Sunday, Dec. 9

Swan boat, paddle boat and kayak rentals at lake Tradition every Saturday and Sunday (weather permitting). 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 10489 S.W. Meeting St., Port St. Lucie. For more information call (772) 323-7773 or visit upthecreekfl.blogspot.com or traditionfl.com Patriot Productions Gun Show at the St. Lucie County Fairgrounds 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $6. 15601 W. Midway Road, Fort Pierce. For more information, visit patriotshow. com

Monday, Dec. 10 Winter Wonderland Light Show Port St. Lucie Community Center. 7 p.m.- 9 p.m.

Free. Drive or walk by to see the light and sound experience.

Display takes place every night the Community Center is open, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., now through Jan. 2. 2195 S.E. Airoso Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 878-2277.

Florida Power & Light Energy Encounter: Tours of Florida Power & Light begin at 10 a.m. and stop at 4 p.m. 6501 South A1A, Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce. Sunday through Friday.

Tours include more than 30 interactive displays about energy, nuclear power and electricity.

Admission is free; reservations required for groups of 10 or more. For information, call (772) 468-4111, or (877) FPL-4FUN. St. Lucie River Princess Eco-Historic Boat Tours 1:30 p.m.-3:10 p.m. Rivergate, 2200 S.E. Veterans Memorial Parkway, Port St. Lucie $14-$20. For reservations, call (772) 342-2450 or visit stlucierivercruise.com

Buddy Run at the Port St. Lucie Civic Center. 6 p.m.

Runners and walkers have the option of doing 1.25 or 2.5 miles. This is not a competition, but a fun way to exercise and make new friends.

9221 S.E. Civic Center Place, Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 204-7101.

Treasure Coast Model Railroad Club Display features more than 750 feet of track arranged to replicate a busy railway. Variety of locomotives, freight and passenger cars operate on the layout.

Open to the public every Tuesday from 7:15 p.m. until 9:15 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. 273 S.W. Becker Road, Port St Lucie. Admission is free. For more information, call (772) 621-9636.

Wednesday, Dec. 12 Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens Jazz & Blues Night at the Botanical Gardens. Listen to the sounds of the Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society indoors at the Gardens from 6:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m. Admission is $3 per person. 2410 S.E. Westmoreland Blvd., Port St. Lucie. For more information, call (772) 337-1959.

St. Lucie County Aquarium featuring the Smithsonian Marine Exhibit Everyone gets in free on the first Tuesday of each month. Regular Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Closed Sunday and Monday Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for children and $3 for seniors. 420 Seaway Drive in Fort Pierce. For more information, call (772) 462-3474.

local chorus, a sing-along, and audience participation. In fact, Sister brings audience members on stage for a Christmas pageant. For Zentmyer, trained in improvisation at the famed Second City in Chicago, there is some freedom to add her own personality into the mix.

“Eighty percent of the show is scripted,” Zentmyer said. “The 20 percent that’s improvised is interacting with the audience. That’s part of what gives it its longevity.

You keep it fresh and different for every show. You have to be fearless. If a cell phone goes off, I confiscate it and put it in a candy jar.

If it rings then, I answer it.”

Zentmyer noted that while it is a Christmas show, it is also firmly tongue-in-cheek.

“It’s very light-hearted, but it’s not disrespectful,” she said. “You can raise your hand, answer a question, and go home with a nifty prize, like a ‘Happy Birthday Baby Jesus’ beach ball.’”

Zentmyer said that playing a nun was in her genes.

“I’m an Irish-American,” she said. “I’m the baby of six. I have an uncle who’s a priest and an aunt who’s a nun. I have an inbred respect for religion. Sister is very old-fashioned. I wear the old-time habit, a meld of several orders. I have no make up. It’s a test of one’s vanity as an actress.”

The actress said that all of the ‘Sister’ shows, starting with “Late Nite Catechism,” are a return to a simpler time.

“The nostalgia factor is huge,” she said. “People get to be kids again and play. You don’t have to be any specific religion to get it. It’s good, clean fun.”

“Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold,” will be presented at the Sunrise Theatre’s Black Box Theatre, 117 S. Second St., Fort Pierce. Performances are Dec. 14 at 8 p.m., Dec. 15 at 3 p.m., and Dec. 16 at 3 and 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $35.

For more information, call the box office at (772) 461-4775 or order online at www.sunrisetheatre.com.

Tuesday, Dec. 11 Ambassadors of Swing Big Band Dance Emerald Ballroom at the Port St. Lucie Civic Center. 7 p.m. Tickets are required and are available for $6 in advance or $7 at the door (credit cards accepted for advance purchase only). Cash bar and snacks available for sale at event. For more information, call (772) 807-4488 or visit pslcommunityband.org 1212

Friday, Dec. 7

SISTER from page 17

20 • DECEMBER 7, 2012 • ST. LUCIE WEST/TRADITION • YOUR VOICE NEWS & VIEWS

www.YourVoiceWeekly.com

Creating Smiles ~ Changing Lives

Photo to come

Dr. Michael Sohl is “The Gold Standard” on the Treasure Coast

Imagine actually looking forward to a dental appointment. Imagine coming out of your dental visit relaxed and refreshed. Dr. Michael Sohl and his expert team have brought dentistry innovation and your comfort to a whole new level, providing gentle sleep for all implant, cosmetic, and general dentistry. From the simplest to the most sophisticated dental procedures. Performed with expertise, delivered with a deep commitment to personal attention and caring.

Welcome to our new State-of-the-art facility

A standard of excellence in personalized dental care enables Dr. Sohl to provide the quality dental services our patients deserve. We providecomprehensive treatment planning and use restorative and cosmetic dentistry to achieve your optimal dental health. Should a dental emergency occur, we make every effort to see and care for you as soon as possible.

BrIghtenIng Your SMIle, outlook During the holidays, people might feel overwhelmed by the added stress and anxiety. Holiday travels, gift planning, and preparing for holiday feasts can take a toll on people’s outlook. Sometimes the only thing needed to boost your mood involves smiling.

Flashing a smile can release endorphins which results in mood elevation. Additionally, smiling is infectious and can impact the mood of surrounding family members, friends, or coworkers. Your Stuart cosmetic dentist, Dr. Michael Sohl, discusses how to brighten your smile and your outlook.

• ReSToRaTive • CoSMeTiC DenTiSTRy • PRevenTion CheCk-uPS • DenTaL iMPLanTS • niTRouS oxiDe • oRaL SeDaTion

853 Se. Monterey Commons Blvd., Stuart, FL • Office: 772-287-3010 • Fax: 772-220-8218 www.DrSohl.com • Email: MSOHL @ DrSohl.com

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your oral health Tip of the Month