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Graceway Village to Host Second Annual Celebrations Under the Stars
In Photo: Larry Neese and SLC Property Appraiser Michelle Franklin
Photos by: MaryAnn Ketcham / Article by: Jayne Platts
Fort Pierce – GraceWay Village (GWV) will host its Second Annual Celebration Under the Stars event on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5 o’clock in the evening at its headquarters, located at 1780 Hartman Road in Fort Pierce.
Presenting Sponsor Neese Roofing and Construction is a continuous, dedicated champion and supporter of the nonprofit’s mission and programs. Stakeholders, donors, event sponsors, board, committee and staff members, advocates, community members, and volunteers are all invited to attend.
GWV’s mission is to feed the hungry, provide clothing for children from infancy through age 18, and host free life skills workshops aimed at improving lives and enhancing productivity. The nonprofit fulfills this mission by serving free, hot meals in its Café four nights a week and offering age-appropriate clothing, including underwear, socks, and shoes, to children in its Clothing Boutique two days a week. GWV’s weekly educational workshops are offered in English, Spanish and Creole to further support the community.
GWV initiatives are free for local neighbors in need, making fundraisers like a Celebration Under the Stars crucial to maintaining a community that offers every opportunity for those in crisis to build a foundation for a healthy, independent, and sustainable life.
"A Celebration Under the Stars is a testament to the power of giving back,” said Chrystal Netherton, GWV chief executive officer. “Together, we create lasting change and brighter futures for those in need.”
The event will include cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, silent and live auctions, raffles, dinner, dessert, and live music.
The Celebration Under the Stars’ dedicated planning committee includes Angel Robertson, Angela Takahashi, Brianna Mast, Christy Neese, Daniela Del Toro, Genia Leonard, Marie Malanczyn, Meg Weinberger and Stacy Broff.
“GraceWay Village’s work in feeding the hungry, clothing children, and offering life skill workshops are made possible through the support of our donors, sponsors, and volunteers,” Netherton said. “A Celebration Under the Stars serves as a reminder of the collective power of giving and the impact we have on building a stronger community."
Tickets are available at gracewayvillage.com. Contact GWV at 772-925-3074 or [email protected] regarding sponsorship opportunities and event questions.
Visit gracewayvillage.com or call 772-925-3074 for more information about GWV.
“Like” GWV on Facebook and follow on Instagram @gracewayvillageslc.
In Photo: Bill & Estelle Turney
In Photo: Katie & Beau Slay
In Photo: Samantha, Genia & Stephanie Leonard
In Photo: Daniela & PSL Police Chief Richard Del Toro
In Photo: SLC County Commissioner Cathy Townsend, Sandee Allen & Jane Rowley
In Photo: Fort Pierce City Commissioner Jeremiah & Kelly Johnson
In Photo: Sean & Debra Mitchell
In Photo: Fort Pierce Mayor Linda Hudson & Jane Rowley
In Photo: SLC County Commissioner Cathy Townsend, Mike DeFrancesco, Doug Davis & Sandee Allen
In Photo: Congressman Brian Mast, Mary & Tom Kindred
2025 Martin CARES Program
Martin CARES is an award-winning program that offers a behind-the-scenes look at Martin County government. Over a six-week period, participants will enjoy a variety of field trips and presentations. Martin CARES will be held twice in 2025! Registration for Session 1 is now open and runs from January-February, and Session 2 will run from March-May. Classes begin at 8 a.m. and conclude at approximately 2 p.m.
Treasure Health Names Lisbet Vandenberg Chief Financial Officer
Expanded Role Oversees Treasure Coast Hospice and St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care
Stuart – Treasure Coast Hospice (TCH), a Treasure Health Service, and St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care (SFR) today announced the promotion of Lisbet “Liz” Vandenberg to Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective December 2. Currently serving as CFO/COO for St. Francis Reflections, Vandenberg’s promotion reflects the long-term growth and strategic initiatives of the recently finalized partnership between Treasure Coast-based Treasure Coast Hospice and Space Coast-based St. Francis Reflections. In her new role, Vandenberg will be responsible for oversight of all aspects of the combined hospice and palliative care organization’s financial operations, reporting, budgeting and accounting processes.
"We are excited to have Liz accept this expanded role and oversee the financial operations of our combined organization,” said Treasure Health President and CEO Jackie Kendrick, CHPCA. "Liz’ financial acumen and experience in merger and acquisitions will enable Treasure Coast Hospice and St. Francis Reflections to further its strategic plans for growth while continuing our commitment to deliver compassionate hospice and palliative care to our respective communities.”
"I’m thrilled to take on this expanded role and look forward to working with the teams at Treasure Coast Hospice and St. Francis Reflections to successfully implement their strategic financial and growth initiatives,” said Vandenberg.
Vandenberg brings more than 30 years of extensive accounting and financial experience to the position, including more than 20 years serving as a Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining St. Francis Reflections Lifestage Care in 2022, Vandenberg served as the Chief Financial Officer for the largest non-profit hospice in Southern Nevada.
Strongly committed to her profession and community, Vandenberg has served as a board member of Financial Executives International (FEI), the United Way of Southern Nevada, the Latin Chamber of Commerce and the College of Southern Nevada Foundation Board of Trustees.
Vandenberg holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the Universidad de Oriente, Venezuela and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the National University, Irvine, California.
Martin County Office Tourism & Marketing Honored as Leave No Trace Tourism Partner of the Year
Stuart – The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing has been named the Leave No Trace Tourism Partner of the Year in the 2024 Leave No Trace Awards.
This prestigious recognition highlights the continued success of their Explore Natural Martin eco-tourism program, a groundbreaking initiative developed in partnership with Leave No Trace to promote sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship throughout Martin County.
The Tourism Partner of the Year Award celebrates organizations that exemplify the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace through education, outreach, and integration into their culture. The Martin County Office of Tourism was recognized for going above and beyond to inspire responsible outdoor behavior among visitors and residents while setting a national example for sustainable travel.
"We are thrilled to honor Martin County, Florida, as this year's Leave No Trace Tourism Partner of the Year. Their unwavering dedication to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship is truly commendable,” said Brice Esplin, Leave No Trace Director of Sustainable Tourism and Partnerships. “By seamlessly integrating Leave No Trace principles into their community initiatives, Martin County has not only protected its stunning natural landscapes, but also laid a robust foundation for the future expansion of their ecotourism programs. Their efforts exemplify how thoughtful stewardship can coexist with a thriving, sustainable destination, ensuring that nature remains healthy for generations to come."
Since its launch on Earth Day 2023, the Explore Natural Martin program has offered over 100 guided eco-tours, engaging more than 1,500 participants with free, guided eco-tours and immersive experiences. Each program incorporates Leave No Trace education, empowering participants to protect natural spaces not only in Martin County but wherever their travels take them.
“Our mission is to foster a deeper connection between people and the environment, and this award validates those efforts,” said Nerissa Okiye, Martin County Tourism Director. “By partnering with Leave No Trace, we’re helping visitors and residents alike become lifelong stewards of the outdoors for generations to come.”
Visit ExploreNaturalMartin.com to learn more about the program and sign up for upcoming experiences on the official Explore Natural Martin Eventbrite registration portal. Find the full list of 2024 Leave No Trace Award winners here.
Martin County Tourism Director Nerissa Okiye Honored “2024 Above & Beyond Women”
Stuart – The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing is proud to announce that Tourism Director Nerissa Okiye has been named a “2024 Above & Beyond: Women” honoree by the News Service of Florida.
This prestigious award recognizes trailblazing women in government and public service who demonstrate a steadfast commitment to making Florida a better place.
Okiye will be recognized alongside other distinguished women at the Above & Beyond award ceremony in Tallahassee on November 19, 2024. Keynote speakers will include Kathleen Passidomo, President of the Florida Senate, and Justice Jamie Rutland Grosshans of the Florida Supreme Court.
"I am truly honored to be recognized by the News Service of Florida in this year’s Above & Beyond program,” said Okiye. "This acknowledgment is incredibly meaningful, especially as I stand alongside such remarkable leaders from across our state. It’s a privilege to serve and promote the beauty and authenticity of Martin County, and I am inspired daily by the passion and dedication of my colleagues who work tirelessly to make Florida an extraordinary place to live, work, and visit."
Okiye has devoted her career to showcasing Martin County’s unique treasures. Since taking the helm of the Tourism Office in 2014, Okiye has led impactful initiatives that inspire overnight visitation and elevate the region’s appeal to a diverse range of national and international markets.
Through her leadership, the Tourism Office has received numerous accolades over the past decade, including several coveted awards for their Explore Natural Martin ecotourism program developed in collaboration with Leave No Trace—solidifying Martin County as a leader in sustainable travel and Florida’s tourism sector.
The Above & Beyond: Women honorees embody passion, perseverance, and vision. They are public servants, advocates, and experts who excel in government, nonprofits, business, healthcare, and other sectors. Okiye’s inclusion on this year’s list celebrates her exceptional contributions to Florida’s tourism landscape, her leadership in the Martin County community, and her dedication to fostering sustainable, responsible growth. See the full list of honorees here.
City of Fort Pierce Commissioners Seek Applications for Board of Adjustment
Fort Pierce – The City of Fort Pierce Commissioners invite city residents to apply for a vacancy on the Board of Adjustment. This board is responsible for reviewing applications for variances and special exceptions to the City’s Code and considering appeals. Members of the board contribute significantly to shaping the growth and development of Fort Pierce by ensuring that proposed projects align with the City’s regulations and community vision.
The Board of Adjustment meets as needed on the fourth Thursday of each month at 2:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers at Fort Pierce City Hall. Members work collaboratively to review detailed applications and evaluate unique property development challenges.
Eligible applicants must reside within the city limits of Fort Pierce. Serving on the Board of Adjustment offers an excellent opportunity to participate in local government, engage in community decision-making, and contribute to the city’s development.
For more information about the Board of Adjustment, including its responsibilities and qualifications, or to submit an application, please visit the City of Fort Pierce’s Boards and Committees page at https://cityoffortpierce.com/144/Boards-Committees or contact the Office of the City Clerk at 772.467.3065.
Harmony Hope Stables Has Partnered with Martin County Board of County Commissioners
Palm City - Harmony Hope Stables (HHS) is thrilled to announce a partnership that was formed with the Martin County Board of Commissioners! Thanks to funding from the local opioid abatement settlement, HHS is now able to provide support to at-risk teens on their waiting list.
Since 2019, HHS has assisted over 350 young individuals with various mental health challenges through innovative music and equine therapy. This engaging approach, set in a natural environment with horses and goats, helps children and
teens who are reluctant to engage in traditional talk therapy. Being immersed in nature and spending time with the animals creates a therapeutic atmosphere where they feel secure.
HHS is a certified PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) Center, featuring a dedicated team that includes a certified equine specialist and a licensed clinical social worker. Additionally, the ranch serves as a training site for FAU interns pursuing degrees in mental health, all working together to create tailored equine lessons to serve the youth in need.
Horses thrive under strong leadership due to their prey animal instincts and herd mentality, often seeking out the alpha. They are incredibly attuned to their handlers’ emotions, reflecting feelings and thoughts through body language.
Interacting with horses helps students develop self-awareness, self-regulation and build trust through activities like heart focused breathing exercises. Grooming horses has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and anxiety, promoting well being. Establishing trust with a horse requires calmness and effective communication in their non-verbal language, demanding qualities such as focus, assertiveness, confidence, patience, empathy, and much more. HHS offers their Stable Moments and Vibe Leadership programs that benefit students dealing with low self-esteem,
anxiety, anger issues, ADHD, depression and post traumatic stress disorder. The ranch will also collaborate with local nonprofits to host enjoyable farm days that incorporate drug and alcohol awareness initiatives, educating teens on making informed choices.
Founder and Executive Director, Kristi Huddleston emphasizes the importance of horses in helping youth develop vital life skills and expresses gratitude to Martin County Board of County Commissioners for supporting their mission, allowing
more at-risk youth to benefit from these opportunities.
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Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing Wings Three Stevie Awards in the 2024 International Business Awards
Stuart – The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing has once again been recognized on the global stage, winning three prestigious Stevie® Awards in the 21st Annual International Business Awards®. The honors highlight the continued success and impact of the Tourism Office’s innovative ecotourism efforts.
The team earned the following accolades:
Gold Stevie® Award in the Travel & Tourism Video category for the Explore Natural Martin Ecotourism promotional video. This video effectively captured the essence of Martin County's natural beauty and amazing eco-attractions, while highlighting the program and showcasing the destination's unique ecotourism offerings to a global audience.
Bronze Stevie® Award in the Communications or PR Campaign of the Year – Travel & Tourism category for Championing Ecotourism Through Explore Natural Martin. This strategic communications campaign successfully promoted the ecotourism program by garnering hundreds of millions of earned impressions in top tier outlets, including Travel + Leisure, MSN, Outside Magazine, The Globe and Mail, Wanderlust Magazine, TravelPulse, and more.
Bronze Stevie® Award in the Sustainability Initiative of the Year – in Canada and the U.S.A. category for the Explore Natural Martin Ecotourism Program. This ongoing program, in partnership with Leave No Trace, has fostered environmental stewardship and responsible tourism through a series of free guided eco-tours and educational events.
"We are thrilled to receive these respected awards, which underscore our commitment to promoting and preserving the natural wonders of Martin County," said Nerissa Okiye, Tourism Director of Martin County. "These recognitions are a testament to the hard work of our team and all of our partners who are dedicated to protecting our paradise and making Martin County a top destination for ecotourism."
The International Business Awards® are the world’s premier business awards program. All individuals and organizations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – are eligible to submit nominations. The 2024 IBAs received entries from organizations in 62 nations and territories.
Details about The International Business Awards® and the full list of Stevie® Award winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/IBA.
Farmers Remain Careful Stewards of Our Natural Resources
Stata data details good news for air quality in the Glades during sugar harvest season
Stata data details good news for air quality in the Glades during sugar harvest season
Data from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Health shows air quality in the Glades was in the “good” range — the highest standard under Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards — for 200 out of 209 test days during the 2023-24 harvest period, or 95.7% of the time.
Measurements of PM 2.5 levels — fine particles under 2.5 micrograms that can decrease air quality — also show that the Glades average of 6.8 PM2.5 per cubic meter sat below the state average of 7.4. Farmers also turned to private monitors in the region to reinforce findings at the state level.
The average air quality in the Glades also sits well below the EPA’s new, tighter definition of “good” air quality, which dropped from a maximum of 12 PM2.5 per cubic meter to 9. That change took effect in May.
“Nearly all of U.S. Sugar’s farmers and employees are proud to call the Glades communities home, so we are thankful to also have some of the best air quality in the entire state of Florida,” said Community Relations Director Brannan Thomas.
“Farmers remain careful stewards of our natural resources, and we want the public to know that the latest period of data shows that concerns that farmers are adversely affecting our local air quality are completely unfounded.”
Subaru Share the Love Comes Wrapped in Love
Photos by: Ilena Luts
Approximately every three minutes, a person in the U.S. is diagnosed with a blood cancer like leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. The recovery can be long and often leaves patients feeling weak, cold, and isolated. That’s why Dyer Subaru in Vero Beach partners with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) and local cancer treatment centers to provide gifts of warm blankets and encouraging messages of hope for patients undergoing treatment. Dyer Subaru has joined with other Subaru dealerships throughout the country to help support nearly 350,000 cancer patients with blankets and encouraging messages of hope written by Dyer Subaru customers and staff members. It’s all part of the Subaru Love Promise, which believes in being a positive force in the communities, not just with donations, but with actions that set an example for others to follow.
The Subaru Love Promise has five core pillars — Environment, Health, Education, Pets, and Community — and the annual Subaru Share the Love® Event, aims to create change in the areas Subaru and its retailers care about the most. Subaru Share the Love has donated more than $288 million and supported over 2,300 hometown charities. The program has also helped protect, rescue, and care for more than 118,000 animals, and has donated and delivered more than 4.6 million meals to seniors, too.
For patients, what could be better than receiving that blanket, along with a few words of love and support from a kind stranger who wants to share encouragement and help you stay strong even during the long hours of treatment? Well, as it turns out, there’s even more love to go around. Patients also receive a small care package with body lotion, a soothing eye mask, some puzzles and games to help pass the treatment time, too. And while a blanket may seem to be a small thing, there isn’t one of us who doesn’t understand and appreciate the comfort of something as small as a warm blanket, a kind word, and the feeling of being seen and valued during the challenging moments of our lives.
Dyer Subaru is active in the community in so many ways, so it is only natural for them to participate in Subaru’s Share the Love Program by diving in and helping to continue to make Indian River and St. Lucie Counties an even better place to live and work. How wonderful that just by having your car serviced or choosing to purchase your next vehicle at Dyer Subaru, you’re also helping to do the same. And isn’t that what community is really all about? If you’d like to learn more about Subaru’s Share the Love Promise, stop by Dyer Subaru today.
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What To Do When Your Employee Sues You
Dealing with an employee lawsuit can be challenging and stressful situation for any employer. It’s essential to handle such situations carefully and in compliance with the law. Here are some key steps to sonsider if you find yourself facing an employee lawsuit.
Consult with an employment attorney: As soon as you become aware that an employee is suing you or your company, seeking legal advice from an experienced employment attorney is crucial. An attorney specializing in employment law can provide valuable guidance, assess the merits of the claim, and help you navigate the legal process.
Review and preserve relevant documents: Collect and review all relevant documents related to the employee’s employment history, including contracts, performance evaluations, disciplinary records, and any other relevant communications. Preserve these documents to ensure they are readily available for your attorney and any legal proceedings.
Notify your insurance carrier: If you have employment practices liability insurance (EPLI), it’s essential to notify your insurance carrier promptly. EPLI can provide coverage for legal expenses and potential damages associated with employee claims. Informing your insurance carrier ensures that you comply with any requirements and allows them to guide you through the claims process.
Maintain open communication with your employee: It is generally advisable to maintain open lines of communication with the employee who filed the lawsuit. However, consult with your attorney to determine the appropriate level and manner of communication to avoid any potential legal pitfalls. Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt or liability.
Conduct an internal investigation: In some cases, conducting an internal investigation may be necessary to gather facts and assess the validity of the employee’s claims. This investigation should be handled carefully and impartially. Consider involving a neutral third party, such as an HR consultant or investigator, to ensure objectivity and fairness.
Develop a legal strategy: Work closely with your employment attorney to develop a sound legal strategy based on the specific circumstances of the case. Your attorney will guide you through the legal process, advise you on potential defenses, and help you determine the most appropriate course of action, such as settlement negotiations or litigation.
Document all interactions and decisions: Throughout the lawsuit process, it’s crucial to keep detailed records of all interactions, decisions, and steps taken. This documentation can serve as evidence and support your position if the case progresses to court. It can also help demonstrate that you have followed proper procedures and acted in good faith.
Consider settlement options: Settlement negotiations can be a viable option to resolve the lawsuit without going through protracted litigation. Your attorney can help assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case and negotiate a fair settlement that protects your interests. Weigh the potential costs, time, and reputational impact of a trial against the benefits of reaching a settlement.
Prepare for litigation, if necessary: If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, be prepared for the possibility of litigation. Your attorney will guide you through the litigation process, including gathering evidence, preparing witnesses, and presenting your case in court. Be diligent in complying with all court deadlines and requirements.
Focus on preventive measures: While dealing with an employee lawsuit, it’s crucial to evaluate your internal policies, procedures, and employee management practices. Identify any areas of weakness or potential liability and take proactive steps to prevent future claims. Regularly review and update your employee handbook, provide training on employment laws, and maintain open lines of communication with your employees.
Remember, each employee lawsuit is unique, and the steps outlined here are general guidelines. Consulting with an experienced employment attorney who can provide tailored advice based on your specific circumstances is essential. By taking prompt and appropriate action, you can navigate the legal process more effectively and protect your rights and interests as an employer.
As always, if you have any questions about buying or selling a business, or business law generally, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
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