03/23/2023 ISSUE 12

A former marketing specialist and Vero Beach socialite who was the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce’s “2019 Volunteer of the Year” and participated in fundraisers for abused children is going to prison – for having a five-month sexual relationship with a 16-year-old boy. Valerie Esposito, 40, accepted on Monday a plea deal that will keep her behind bars for at least the next 2 ½ years. Circuit Judge Robert Meadows endorsed the agreement and sentenced Esposito to 70 months in state prison for “unlawful sexual activity with a minor” and 60 months for “lewd solicitation of a child by computer.” The two sentences will run concurrently, howevFive and a half years after a typical day for the dining room staff at the Isles of Vero luxury assisted living community turned into a violent knife attack, the accused has yet to be tried for attempted second-degree murder. The trial of 52-year-old Orville Roy Reid of Vero Lake Estates was set for next week. But due to a scheduling conflict with an overlapping trial, jury selection for this case was reset for May 4. The case has now been continued 31 times. As the kitchen staff prepared and served lunch to the community’s residents in September 2017, police say Reid, whom they described as Jamaican, struck his If it seems to you that new houses are being built everywhere in Vero’s Central Beach, you aren’t wrong. Some streets – Dahlia, Azalea and Holly, for instance – have as many as three new homes in progress at the moment. The county issued 20 permits in 2022 for total home demolitions between Live Oak Road in the north and Iris Lane in the south, and Vero Beach Planning and Development Director Jason Jeffries said the city has been The Florida Legislature is moving two bills through committee that would clamp down on how municipal-owned electric, water and sewer utilities use money derived from customers who reside outside the city limits. House Speaker Pro Tempore Chuck Clemons of Alachua County made this issue a priority on the Energy, Communications and Cybersecurity Subcommittee he serves on because the issue hits home for his constituents. Outside-the-city electric customers served by Gainesville Regional Utility (GRU) are facing even bigger problems than Vero Beach Utilities customers were in the summer of 2009 when rates soared, and that fall when city officials first invited Florida Power & Light to talk about purchasing the aging utility. Dicey power generation investments, massive transfers into the general fund and punishing rate disparities drove Clemons to INSIDE To advertise call: 772-559-4187 For circulation or where to pick up your issue call: 772-226-7925 NEWS HEALTH PETS REAL ESTATE 1-5 6 B12 12 ARTS GAMES CALENDAR B1 B13 B16 © 2023 Vero Beach 32963 Media LLC. All rights reserved. MY TAKE BY RAY MCNULTY Susy Tomassi: Looking increasingly like murder The more I dig into the disappearance of Susy Tomassi five years ago, the more difficult it becomes for me to believe she died where her skeletal remains were discovered by a fisherman earlier this month – submerged in the mangroves near the Oslo Road Boat Ramp. Nor can I accept that her death was the result of some tragic mishap. The more likely scenario, based on my research and interviews, is: Tomassi was murdered somewhere else and her lifeless body was hidden, possibly buried, in another location, where it stayed for weeks, months, even years. Her killer then, for some reason, decided to move the body and dumped her decomposing remains where they were found on March 3, about 150 yards north of the boat ramp. Her death was caused by some type of head trauma – possibly from a gunshot – probably Five years after attack, trial again delayed March 23, 2023 | Volume 10, Issue 12 | Newsstand Price: $1.00 | For breaking news visit VeroNews.com YOUR LOCAL NEWS SOURCE FOR INDIAN RIVER COUNTY VNA MOBILE CLINIC IS ‘BEST-KEPT SECRET IN INDIAN RIVER COUNTY’ Your Health, Page 6 ‘SEAS’ THE DAY: PAINTER LOVES MARITIME ART Seen & Scene, P. B2 Chamber’s 2019 ‘Volunteer of the Year’ headed for prison By Lisa Zahner | Staff Writer [email protected] Bills advance to protect municipal utility customers CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 By Ray McNulty | Staff Writer [email protected] CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 By Steven M. Thomas | Staff Writer [email protected] CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 By Casey Stavenhagen | Staff Writer Central Beach: New homes rising under old oaks PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

2 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS www.veronews.com NEW COVID-19 INFECTIONS HERE AT A POST-PANDEMIC LOW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 MY TAKE inflicted by the unknown driver who lured her into his white pickup truck at the exit of a South County shopping center on that ill-fated Friday afternoon in March 2018. In fact, a source familiar with the Sheriff’s Office’s investigation and speaking on the condition of anonymity, told me last week detectives found a bullet-size hole in Tomassi’s skull, which was discovered with portions of bones. If the bones and joints weren’t intact, the source said, it could indicate the remains were stored somewhere and then moved. That, too, would support my theory, which I’ll continue to embrace until someone produces evidence to prove me wrong. To believe otherwise – that Tomassi, who was 73 and in the early stages of dementia, was not the victim of foul play and died accidentally where her remains were found – would betray all we’ve learned in the years since she went for a walk through the South Vero Square shopping plaza, got into that white pickup truck and was never again seen alive. We would need to believe the massive search that ensued after Tomassi’s disappearance somehow missed her, even though the Sheriff’s Office dispatched to the area a helicopter, K-9 and marine units, agricultural units on all-terrain vehicles, a SWAT team, detectives and patrol deputies, all within an hour of the woman being reported missing. We would need to dismiss the claims of volunteers, including Angels of Hope Outreach Ministries co-founders David and Kelly Long, who said they organized a group that participated in the failed search effort, combing the wooded area and shoreline north of the boat ramp. We also would need to disregard the definitive remarks of a sheriff’s detective who, after an FBI-enhanced surveillance video was publicly released in October 2019, said the footage not only showed Tomassi getting into that white pickup truck – which then drove east toward the boat ramp – but also revealed she was still in the vehicle when it sped west toward U.S. 1. “She’s not down there,” Sheriff’s Detective Greg Farless told me in early November 2019, referring to the boat-ramp area. “We’d have found her.” There’s no good reason to doubt him. Surely, if Tomassi’s body were in those mangroves the entire time, somebody – perhaps a fisherman, or a boater, or one of the homeless people who camp in the boat-ramp vicinity – would have found her before her corpse was reduced to skeletal remains. It’s not as if nobody had gone back there the past five years. “We know those woods, which is why we wanted to join the search,” Kelly Long said. “We go into those woods at least once or twice a week, looking for homeless camps, so we can offer help. I even have a video of us going through those mangroves after the woman went missing. “When they found the remains, my husband David said to me: “Do you realize we were there?’” she added. “We searched that whole area, and we weren’t the only ones. “She wasn’t there – not the whole time, anyway.” The Longs agreed with my hypothesis that Tomassi was killed elsewhere and her body wasn’t in the mangroves when the initial searches were conducted, saying anyone in the vicinity would’ve noticed the harsh, unmistakable odor that emanates from a decomposing corpse. They speculated that Tomassi’s body was buried somewhere else, possibly for a year or more, before it was moved to the boat-ramp area. “We’ve been back there a lot,” she said, “and we never smelled anything.” It was during our 2019 conversation, though, that Farless, who went through the surveillance video step by step, made what is now the strongest argument for Tomassi having been killed somewhere else. Farless said the video appeared to show Tomassi, who at about 5 p.m. had wandered away from the Quilted Giraffe restaurant she co-owned with her husband of 37 years, engaging in a brief conversation with the driver of the pickup truck, which had stopped near the shopping plaza’s exit. She then walked around to the passenger side and got in. “You can’t really see it, but I believe he said something to her as she walked behind the truck,” said Farless, one of the detectives initially assigned to the case. “I say ‘he,’ because I believe a man was driving the truck. “The driver then goes east on Oslo Road, but, just a few minutes later, we see him traveling west at a noticeably higher rate of speed,” he continued. “Maybe he was going to do something to her there (in the boat-ramp area), but there were too many people around. “For whatever reason, he turned around and got out of there,” he added. “She was still in that truck.” Farless said the westbound truck reappeared on the video only 3 ½ to 4 minutes after first departing eastbound with Tomassi. That’s only slightly longer that the 3 minutes and 15 seconds it took the detective to make a test-run round trip on Oslo Road between the driveway behind South Vero Square and the boat ramp. That means there was no time for the driver to have done something to Tomassi before heading back toward U.S. 1. Still, Farless said he believed “whoever was driving that truck did something bad to her.” That video, which was made public 3 ½ years ago, was the detectives’ last lead in the case – until Tomassi’s skeletal remains, forms of identification and jewelry were found earlier this month The hard truth is: We might never know exactly what happened to Tomassi after she stepped into that white pickup truck, which detectives haven’t been able to identify. Find the driver, though, and I believe we’ll find out who murdered Tomassi. New COVID-19 infections here were near their lowest point since the start of the pandemic last week, but outbreaks of influenza increased. Grade-school and college spring break visitors might be behind the elevated instance of late-season influenza, as a rash of harsh winter weather up north and in California drove travelers to Vero’s beaches. Flu season peaked around Thanksgiving, with Influenza A H3 being the predominant flu strain so far this year, and the 2009 strain Influenza A H1N1 still circulating and causing nearly 40 percent of flu infections this winter. Influenza B has been almost nonexistent since the start of the 2020 pandemic. On the COVID front, only 60 people tested positive here last week at a lab or medical office that sends data to the Florida Department of Health. That number does not include people who used an at-home test kit to find out whether or not they’d been infected with COVID. Countywide the test positivity rate listed on the bi-weekly state report was 8.8 percent. Public health officials, early on in the pandemic, told communities that the goal was to keep the positivity rate for each community lower than 10 percent. As of Monday press time, 64 Florida counties were in the green Low COVID Community Level zone, with only the Tampa Bay area in the yellow or medium category. Still, 162 people were hospitalized in Florida due to COVID illness, and 56 people died last week from complications of COVID-19 disease – meaning it’s extremely important to prevent having to go to the hospital emergency department. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported six people admitted to the hospital for COVID-19 illness last week, with COVID-positive patients using about 2 percent of the staffed hospital beds. Cleveland Clinic spokesperson Erin Miller said Monday “Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital has six COVID-positive patients in-house, one of whom is in the ICU.” The Paxlovid drug many have been taking to head off the worst symptoms is being considered for a full U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, as it was approved during the pandemic for emergency use only to replace the four-injection Regeneron regimen. Paxlovid is a combination of two drugs taken in pill form. They work together against the virus. By Lisa Zahner | Staff Writer [email protected] Oslo Road Boat Ramp. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

approving “a steady 20 to 25 residential site plans per year” in the neighborhood, including a handful of houses going up on the few remaining empty lots. Add to that a similar number of major, whole-house renovations that transform worn-out 1960s bungalows into like-new homes, and that adds up to a lot of pickup trucks parked beneath the live oaks on Monday mornings. Most new homes are being built by people who bought an outdated house with the intent to tear it down and build a beautiful new home on the lot in which to live. But there are spec houses, too, and transformative renovations by both residents and developers. The phenomenon is being driven by three things – the age and size of most houses in Central Beach, many of which are small and date from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s; an intensely desirable location; and a mind-boggling increase in property values in the sprawling suburban neighborhood north and south of Beachland Boulevard. According to county property records, the average sales price of a single-family home in the section of Central Beach south of Beachland more than tripled between 2019 and 2022, from $578,000 to $1.785 million in 2022. The total volume of transactions in that section jumped from $8,681,000 to $39,275,000 – showing a massive increase in value. It was only a couple of years ago that million-dollar sales first occurred in the neighborhood of mostly modest homes, causing island brokers to shake their heads in amazement. Today, $1 million is the bottom of the market. Of the two dozen homes listed for sale in Central Beach on Monday, five were in the $900,000s, including three at $995,000. Everything else was $1 million or more, going up to nearly $4 million. “Teardowns are becoming more commonplace,” said Compass team leader Scott Reynolds, who with his wife Janice is building a home in Central Beach that is nearing completion. “There isn’t much to work with in some of the houses, and lot values have gone up so much that it doesn’t make sense in many cases to keep a structure that is outdated and only worth a couple of hundred thousand dollars.” “The reality is that if you have a 1,500-square-foot, 3-bedroom, 2-bath house from the 1950s or 1960s, that is not what people coming here now are looking for,” said Dale Sorensen Jr., managing broker of Dale Sorensen Real Estate. “There is a lot more new money coming into town now and these new people have a different level of standards,” Reynolds added. “For me it is refreshing. “People always thought it would take getting a major airport within half an hour of town to transform values but the Internet and technology that permit remote work turned out to be the game changer. People working remotely bring more money into town and the incomes of people moving into Central Beach are higher now than in the past.” Remote workers with higher salaries and net worths moving here during the pandemic bid prices up dramatically in Central Beach and the improvements they have undertaken will continue to push home prices higher in a virtuous cycle that has no end in sight, according to Reynolds, Sorensen and Richard Boga, a luxury agent at ONE Sotheby’s International Realty. “I see the desirability of the area ever increasing in the years ahead and that increase will continue to drive redevelopment,” said Boga, who bought a house in Central Beach as an investment and possible future home during the pandemic when he saw which way the winds of change were blowing. To some, buying in Central Beach after prices just tripled in three years might seem like buying bitcoin at $60,000, but that does not seem to be the case. Central Beach is an idyllic environment in many ways, with low crime, low density and an extraordinary array of amenities in a compact area. Ocean beaches, river marinas and boat launches, a fine art museum and outstanding live theater, along with loads of shops, restaurants, resorts and a couple of country clubs all enhance the Central Beach lifestyle, giving it a strong basis of current and increasing value. Add in the influx of remote workers, wellto-do early retirees and locals who have the money to buy into the seaside dream and the future looks bright for home values in the neighborhood. “I do think we still have a lot of headroom for prices here,” said Reynolds, “especially when you compare us to competing markets.” Local developer Yane Zana agrees: “Prices for homes on dry lots in Central Beach have hit $1,000 a square foot, which no one ever would have imagined a few years ago. But we are still pretty darn affordable compared to Naples or Palm Beach.” The median list price in Central Beach this week was $1.46 million while the median in Naples 34102, where that town’s central beach is located, was $5.9 million – and homes aren’t lingering on the market. According to Redfin they sell in an average of 56 days. Meanwhile, the median list price on Palm Beach Island was $9.4 million, almost seven times the median in Central Beach. So, people in the Northeast, California, Miami or abroad who want an upscale, seaside lifestyle in Florida can’t help but do a double-take when they compare Vero with its rivals. Especially because there is little danger of redevelopment getting out of hand here as it has in many ultra-desirable places that end up losing some of what made them special as people crowd in. The City of Vero Beach has conservative code requirements in place that limit the height of buildings and the size of homes that can be built on different sized lots. The smaller the lot, the smaller the home permitted. Jeffries told Vero News that houses can only occupy between 30 percent and 38 perServing mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS March 23, 2023 3 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 CENTRAL BEACH cent of a lot, which allows for larger homes on a larger lot but never a house that takes up every cubic inch of air space the way some houses do in areas like the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, California, and other coastal cities. Setbacks and front and side yard widths also are controlled by code, and Jeffries said the city is considering tightening some building regulations as it revises its comprehensive plan in order to protect the quality of neighborhoods like Central Beach. “The city’s goal is to preserve the low-density character of its neighborhoods and the preserve the live oak canopy,” Jeffries said. “Janice and I went to a real estate networking event in San Diego recently, and we went out to Del Coronado Island,” Reynolds said. “To me, it is like a grown-up version of Central Beach. It’s a mature area with many new homes and many very, very improved smaller houses that are architecturally interesting with a lot of character and charm without being a big Mediterranean box like you might see at the beach in Newport. “I’ve always thought of Vero Beach as more creative and artistic than most places, and I think that will continue to be reflected in Central Beach.” “I don’t see too many examples of overbuilding or McMansions in Central Beach,” said Boga. “You can elevate and improve a neighborhood considerably and still preserve its character.”

er, which means Esposito could be released from prison as early as the summer of 2026 – because the Florida Department of Corrections will give her credit for her time served at the County Jail, where she has spent most of the past three years. Esposito, who was arrested in October 2019, was facing the possibility of spending decades in prison if convicted. But during plea negotiations, prosecutors agreed to drop two of the four original charges and settle for a reduced sentence. “As with any such deal, we made it in the best interest of the state,” Assistant State Attorney Patrick O’Brien said, adding that Esposito will be required to register as a sex offender when she gets out of prison. Local attorney Edward Abare, who has represented Esposito since October, said he immediately began discussing a plea arrangement with O’Brien and that the two reached a tentative agreement before the end of the year. “It was a fair resolution to a sad situation,” Abare said. “There were no winners.” Wearing a jail-issued orange jump suit and handcuffs as she entered the courtroom, Esposito told Meadows she understood the terms of the plea deal and was accepting the agreed-upon sentence because it was in her “best interests” – not because she was guilty. In fact, she pleaded no contest to the remaining two charges. Esposito’s plea ended a 3 ½-year legal saga that began in early October 2019, when the boy’s father learned of his son’s sexual involvement with the woman, then 37, and contacted Vero Beach police. Questioned by detectives, the father said he became aware of the illegal activity after finding explicit videos and text messages “describing in graphic detail an ongoing sexual relationship,” police records stated. According to an arrest affidavit, the boy told detectives that Esposito began making sexual advances after his 16th birthday and their encounters continued through the summer. Esposito was arrested eight days after those interviews. Days later, the father, who had been romantically involved with Esposito, spoke with DailyMailTV and accused his ex-girlfriend of being a “predator.” Police charged Esposito with three counts of sexual battery on a person between the ages of 12 and 18, and one count of lewd solicitation of a child by computer. Her bail was set at $325,000, which was later reduced to $200,000. Three months later, Circuit Judge Dan Vaughn agreed to lower her bond to $100,000 – but with strict living conditions upon her release from jail. Those conditions required Esposito to reside at a designated address with an appointed person, be monitored by GPS and 4 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS www.veronews.com CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 HEADED FOR PRISON co-worker Clive Alcott three times in the head with a large kitchen knife in front of three servers present in the kitchen, turning the blood-spattered floor, walls and driveway into a crime scene. The accused assailant chased Alcott out of the building, according to witnesses, then fled the scene northbound on 66th Avenue in his gray Mazda SUV. Alcott drove his blue Nissan east on State Road 60, but stopped the car in traffic due to his injuries, and was spotted by Indian River County Sheriff’s deputies “covered in blood and had a bloody rag over his left eye,” court records say. Alcott lost consciousness as an ambulance arrived to take him to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital. When interviewed at the hospital, Alcott told police he was in a “verbal confrontation” about Reid not helping him in the kitchen. One witness to the incident told police a resident had requested an order of food with no vegetables, to which the victim whispered something to Reid, spurring the attack with no further exchange of words. Alcott suffered a chipped skull from what was described as an overhead slicing motion rather than a stabbing. All three witnesses, each interviewed the day CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 TRIAL AGAIN DELAYED remain within the county limits. She also was prohibited from having contact with the victim, and with minors (except for her own children). By the terms of her pre-trial release, Esposito wasn’t supposed to access the Internet or consume alcohol or drugs. After only 10 months of freedom, she was back behind bars. In November 2020, after prosecutors notified the court that police reported Esposito had violated the conditions of her release by using a dating website to meet a man at the Vero Beach Hotel & Spa and drink beer at Earl’s Hideaway Lounge in Sebastian, Vaughn revoked her bond. She remained in jail until her court appearance Monday. Prior to her October 2019 arrest, Esposito worked as a marketing specialist for an insurance agency and was a regular at social gatherings often participating in charitable events. Just days before her arrest, Esposito attended the Exchange Club of Indian River County 100’s Fifth Annual Black and White Centennial Masquerade Ball. The ball’s proceeds go to the prevention of child abuse. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

ask for two meetings just on the topic of municipal-owned utilities before the 2023 session opened. Indian River Shores and South Beach utility customers spoke before Clemons’ committee and reminded legislators that the plight of ratepayers is a statewide problem – and not to forget about water-sewer customers. Other members of the subcommittee relayed how they’ve heard from constituents in unincorporated areas from some of the poorest communities in Miami-Dade County to semi-rural areas to pricey suburban developments across Florida who are not happy with their monopoly utility provider. The three top complaints are surcharges on outside-the-city customers, transfers of utility rate revenues into the owner-municipalities’ general funds, and the lack of regulation, with locally elected non-utility-experts making very expensive decisions about plants and other investments – sometimes to the detriment of ratepayers. Clemons’ local bill targeting the Gainesville crisis takes a pretty drastic approach. Under Clemons’ bill, the management of GRU will get taken over by an utility authority with members appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. That bill would not impact Vero Beach as it’s strictly a “local bill” filed to address a geographically targeted problem. But it would be interesting to watch what action the appointees take, and whether it brings down the rates. For municipal utility customers outside Alachua County, a separate House Bill 1331 with broader potential implications for Vero, Indian River Shores and unincorporated South Beach water-sewer customers was set to be heard this Tuesday before the subcommittee. The bill, filed by Rep. Demi Busatta Cabrera of Coral Gables aims to do four things: Bring municipal utilities which serve customers outside the city limits under the regulation of the Florida Public Service Commission. Require a referendum of all utility customers to approve surcharges on customers outside the city limits, and on transfers into the municipal owner’s general fund. Decrease the percentage of any general fund transfers on a sliding scale as the ratepaying community outside the city limits grows, in proportion to the number of inside city ratepayers. Prohibit municipalities which use utility revenues for non-utility related purposes from benefiting from taxpayer-funded grant and loan programs. However, the bill language is vague and leaves an awful lot of questions unanswered. It would be tough for cities to know how to comply, and some sort of lengthy, costly court challenge is almost guaranteed. Indian River Shores Mayor Brian Foley, who traveled to Tallahassee to address the subcommittee in January, said he’s concerned about how things will get inserted into the bill as part of compromise negotiations to win approval as the bill progresses through the various House committees. “You start out with a horse and you end up with a camel,” Foley said, adding that he’s pleased that a bill has been introduced in the House, and a matching bill floated in the Senate. Foley said he realizes the bill is quite ambitious, and that realistically it might not successfully run the committee gauntlet this session. The subcommittee staff has not published an analysis of the House bill yet on the committee web portal. Utility activist and CPA Glenn Heran, who worked on the Vero Electric sale for a dozen years, said: “They should keep it as simple as possible. A cap on surcharges, or no surcharges, and no transfers into the general fund.” Vero Beach used to transfer $5.6 million from its electric utility to pad the city’s general fund, plus another nearly $3 million in administrative transfers to pay for City Hall operations. The Vero water-sewer utility transfers more than $3 million in direct and administrative transfers, and that amount is set to rise roughly 15 percent each year, compounded, from 2023 to 2026 due to steep rate increases, as the transfers are a set 6 percent of revenues. Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS March 23, 2023 5 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 MUNICIPAL UTILITY CUSTOMERS NEWS ANALYSIS of the attack, identified Reid and told police he chased the victim out of the kitchen with the knife. The victim told police he and Reid had “issues in the past,” according to Reid’s warrant affidavit, but further details were not provided at the time. Reid turned himself in to at the Indian River Sheriff’s Office two days after the attack. He was released after posting $100,000 bail the next day and pled “not guilty” in October 2017. Reid was ordered not to return to the Isles of Vero – since renamed Discovery Village – and to have no contact with Alcott or the co-workers who witnessed the incident. After 21 continuances, Reid’s bond expired in late 2020. His defense attorney, Bobby Guttridge, requested a reduction of bond, claiming “the bail set is excessive and tantamount to a denial of bail.” The motion was denied and Reid posted another $100,000 in early 2021. Guttridge could not be reached at press time for comment about the case.

6 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH www.veronews.com For more than a quarter century, the Visiting Nurse Association of the Treasure Coast’s Mobile Clinic has offered an alternative to pricey urgent care and hospital emergency department visits, and the service is more popular than ever with 4,000 patients seen over the past year, right in their own neighborhoods. The nonprofit VNA received $350,000 in 2022 from the Indian River County Hospital District. That’s more than half their funding, according to Liz Adams, VNA’s community health services director. Other funding comes from the VNA Foundation, John’s Island Foundation and individual contributions. Adams took time out from assisting patients at a busy mobile clinic in the parking lot of the VNA’s main campus to provide a snapshot of operations. “I feel we catch those people who fall through the cracks of the healthcare system,” she said. “We reach people in need who have nowhere else to turn to.” VNA mobile clinic called ‘best-kept secret’ in the county By William Roller | Correspondent 1225 US HWY 1, VERO BEACH, FL 32960 JULIE A. CROMER, DDS COSMETIC DENTISTRY GENERAL DENTISTRY DENTURES & PARTIALS DENTAL IMPLANTS WHITENING GUM SURGERY WALK-INS WELCOME FINANCING & SAVINGS PLAN AVAILABLE SE HABLA ESPANOL DENTAL LAB ON PREMISES Call 772-562-5051 CromerAndCairnsDental.com The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other services, examination, or treatment that is preformed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment. NEW PATIENT SPECIAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAM FULL SET XRAYS TREATMENT PLAN CLEANING* $79 *Not in combination with any other offer. Offer good for new patients only and cleaning in absence of periodontal disease. Xrays are non transferable. (D0150) (D1110) (D0210) (D0330) Liz Adams. PHOTOS: JOSHUA KODIS

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH March 23, 2023 7 In an average month the clinic sees 150 to 300 patients. That includes annual and sports physical exams and health screenings for blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. The mobile clinic operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at various sites. On Mondays and Fridays, the VNA team sets up shop at the Vero Beach Walmart. On Tuesdays, the Sebastian Walmart is the ven - ue for the clinic. On Wednesdays the clinic heads to St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Shop on C.R. 510 and on Thursdays it ventures out to Fellsmere. The schedule shifts due to hol - idays, so it’s best to double-check the days and times at www.vnatc.com. To get the word out about the mobile clinic and the services it offers, the VNA distributes flyers in schools, church groups, unincorporated areas, the United Against Poverty Center and newspaper circulars. Memory Semprevivo, 38, a stay-athome mom who homeschools her children, waited patiently to see a nurse practitioner because her 12-year-old son, Giovani, woke up with an ear infection. Semprevivo’s family has a primary care doctor, but he was booked up. She turned to the mobile clinic, de - spite having health insurance through her husband Joseph’s employer, Indian River State College. Semprevivo has been coming to the mo - bile clinic for three years after hearing about it through friends. Yet she has no intention of giving up her primary care doctor. “Having the clinic gives me an option for more flexibility. And having my doctor gives me one more choice. I’d say the mo - bile clinic is the best-kept secret in Indian River County,” she said. Angelica Ramirez waited her turn in her vehicle to access care for her 7-year-old son Leamsil, who was running a fever and, she suspected, had some type of infection. Ramirez has been coming to the clinic for 15 years. She once had employer-provided health benefits, doesn’t offer them. “I look at the Internet to see where the clinic is stopping, “ she said. “Sometimes I’ll go to the Sebastian Walmart. They have it posted every day. I’m happy with the care here, 100 percent. I’d recommend it to friends.” Ann Marie McCrystal, who served as a Hospital District trustee for 7 ½ years, was a co-founder of VNA and for - mer nurse administrator. She characterized the mobile clinic as an invaluable tool for the community. “It’s for working people who can’t get to the doctor or have very limited time,” McCrystal said. “The mobile clinic is posi - tioned throughout Indian River County for working people who can’t take time off work.” She also noted the clinic is a tool that can treat acute symp - toms which can help avoid the need to visit the ER. “But the mobile clinic is also a resource to find out where to go for further treat - ment if it is needed,” she said. Of the 4,000 patients seen through the mobile clinic so far in the 2022-23 fiscal year, 3,000 of those required a diagnosis and treatment, recalled registered nurse and VNA Senior Special Projects Director Patricia Knipper. VNA CEO Lundy Fields said today’s young professionals reared in the digital age have higher expectations and would prefer to dispense with outdated HMOs and their restrictions, making the clinic more attractive. “They want to know what technology can do for them,” he said. “Can I get re - mote care? Is there an app I can use? Can I make appointments at 8 a.m. or 7 p.m.? They look more for convenience. And I think our mobile home health clinic will adapt well to the new environment.” On top of a lack of access to treatment from a primary care physician, many mo - bile clinic patients recently have faced housing and food insecurity. “So, for the past year, we’ve seen nu - merous uninsured or insured who can’t afford copays or go to urgent care centers and do not want to resort to the emergen - cy room,” said Knipper. Based on studies Adams and Knipper completed, 60 percent to 70 percent of mobile clinic patients are uninsured. “It costs $1,000 minimum to visit the ER,” said Adams. “We charge $20 for a physical and $30 for a sports exam. For a sick visit, it costs $5,” she said. “Occasionally, someone cannot afford that amount. And once we had a client who handed us a debit card and it only had $4 left on it. We declined to take his remain - ing balance.” The mobile clinic’s outreach program also brings care to seniors living at Or - ange Blossom Village Apartments and St. Francis Manor. “We see ourselves as a bridge between the patient and other healthcare facili - ties,” said Knipper. “We encourage pa - tients to follow up on care but can noten - sure they go. But we continue to find ways to work with the Indian River County Hospital District.” “Having the clinic gives me an option for more flexibility. And having my doctor give me one more choice. I’d say the mobile clinic is the bestkept secret in Indian River County.” – Memory Semprevivo

8 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH www.veronews.com Although low-level laser therapy has been around for a while, new medical conditions for which it is a viable treatment continue to come to light. “Cold laser therapy beams light energy at your skin to reduce pain and inflammation deep within an area of your body,” according to WebMD. “It’s used to treat knee pain from osteoarthritis, as well as low back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, tendinitis, nerve pain and sports injuries.” The treatment, which employs 600- to 1,000-nanometer wavelength light, is used by “orthopedists, sports medicine doctors and trainers, physical therapists and chiropractors,” including Dr. Kerri Ward, a chiropractic physician whose practice, Achieving Wellness, is in Port St. Lucie. She has been working with lasers for six years. “I first saw them at continuing ed seminars that I was attending at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta,” she says. “I had access for a week and used them both on patients and myself for a By Jackie Holfelder | Correspondent Cold laser therapy gaining acceptance for various treatments HARBOR PRIMARY CARE 1300 36TH ST, STE 1G VERO BEACH, FL 32960 Medical Arts Center West of Hospital Emergency Department PLEASE CALL 772-562-3960 FOR APPOINTMENT THET L. TUN M.D. Board Certified Internal Medicine Board Certified Hospice & Palliative Medicine • Accepts Medicare and Most Major Insurance Plans • Dr. Tun is an Active Member of the Medical Staff at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital since 2011 By Jackie Holfelder | Correspondent Dr. Kerri Ward. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH March 23, 2023 9 work-related wrist injury. I interviewed everyone after the first treatment, and they all raved about the pain relief.” Cold laser therapy “uses light photons that are introduced to your skin with a wand that contains several light-emitting diodes,” according to verywellhealth.com. “As the photons enter your skin and pass through injured tissue, chemical changes to the mitochondria of the cells occur, signaling them to increase the production of adenosine triphosphate. This is theorized to cause positive growth and healing to those tissues.” Medical doctors first viewed the therapy with skepticism, but a number of scientific studies, including double-blind placebo-controlled studies, have substantiated the healing effects of low intensity laser beams and a growing number of MDs now use the treatment. Healthline.com reports that “a 2015 meta-analysis (examining data from a large number of independent studies) found that cold laser treatments can have a positive effect on pain reduction in people with low back pain. Another meta-analysis found that joint pain can be lessened with the use of cold laser therapy.” Unlike higher-frequency lasers used for surgery, cold laser pulses don’t heat or cut your skin. The light triggers chemical changes that help damaged cells and tissues heal and regrow. During treatment, the doctor puts the cold laser device directly on your skin or very close to it, where it sends a painless pulse of photons. The treatment in non-invasive, has no known side-effects and does not involve pain-killing drugs, which can lead to addiction and overdose. Dr. Ward says you will need a minimum of four to six treatments to see results. “Although the majority of insurers do not cover it, it’s affordable for most people,” she states. Many patients are potential candidates for the treatment, but Dr. Ward shares that some should not get cold laser therapy. “Pregnant women and certain cancer patients should avoid it,” she said. “There is no age limit, however. I even used it for a minute on my own newborn grandson to treat a birth-related situation.” Those with epilepsy and certain other conditions also should not receive the treatment. Consult your doctor to find out if you are a candidate. Although devices are available for selfand home-use, it’s important to know how and when to use them. For instance, it’s possible to cause permanent damage to your eyes if the devices aren’t handled properly. Cold laser therapy is FDA-approved for certain applications. Dr. Ward said the opportunities for it to become increasingly important in the world of medicine are exciting. Dr. Kerri Ward was studying to be a pharmacist at Mercer School of Pharmacy in Atlanta when she learned about chiropractic medicine’s emphasis on health as opposed to sickness. Attracted by the paradigm, she enrolled in Life University School of Chiropractic, where she graduated with a doctorate in 1999. She has been licensed in the state of Florida since 2001. Her practice, Achieving Wellness, is located at 304 NW Bethany Dr., Port St. Lucie: 772-344-1431. She is accepting new patients.

10 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH www.veronews.com Eating a balanced diet, exercising the mind and body regularly, having regular contact with others, and not drinking or smoking – these six “healthy lifestyle factors” were associated with better cognitive outcomes in older adults, in a large Chinese study conducted over a decade and published in the BMJ last Wednesday. While researchers have long known that there is a link between dementia and factors such as social isolation and obesity, the size and scope of the new study adds substantial evidence to a global body of research that suggests a healthy lifestyle may help brains age better. It also suggests that the effects of a healthy lifestyle are beneficial even for people who are genetically more susceptible to memory decline – a “very hope-giving” finding for the millions of individuals around the world who carry the APOEε4 gene, a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, said Eef Hogervorst, chair of biological psychology at Loughborough University, who was not involved in the study. Memory tends to decline gradually as people age. Some older people may develop dementia, an umbrella term that can include Alzheimer’s, and generally describes a deterioration in cognitive function that goes beyond the normal effects of aging. But for many, “memory loss can merely be senescent forgetfulness,” write the authors of the BMJ study – like forgetting the name of that TV program you used to love, or that pesky fact you wanted to look up. Memory loss is no less damaging for being gradual, and age-related memory decline can in some cases be an early symptom of dementia. But the good news, the researchers say, is that it “can be reversed or become stable rather than progress to a pathological state.” The BMJ study was conducted in China between 2009 and 2019. Researchers conducted tests on over 29,000 people ages 60 and older and then tracked their progress or decline over time – what’s known as a population-based cohort study. Although more than 10,500 participants dropped out of the study over the next decade, the researchers still used the data collected from those individuals in their analysis. At the start of the study, researchers conducted baseline memory tests as well as testing for the APOE gene. They also surveyed participants about their daily habits. Participants were sorted into one of three groups – favorable, average and unfavorable – based on their lifestyle. The six modifiable lifestyle factors the researchers focused on included: Physical exercise: Doing at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. Diet: Eating appropriate daily amounts of at least seven of 12 food items (fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, dairy products, salt, oil, eggs, cereals, legumes, nuts and tea). Alcohol: Never drink or drink occasionally. Smoking: Never having smoked or being a former smoker. Cognitive activity: Exercising the brain at least twice a week (by reading and playing cards or mah-jongg, for example). Social contact: Engaging with others at least twice a week (by attending community meetings or visiting friends or relatives, for example). Over the course of the study, the researchers found that people in the favorable group (four to six healthy factors) and average group 6 ways to slow memory decline and lower dementia risk By Annabelle Timsit The Washington Post

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH March 23, 2023 11 (two to three) had a slower rate of memory decline over time than people with unfavorable lifestyles (zero to one healthy factor). People living favorable lifestyles that included at least four healthy habits were also less likely to progress to mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The results show that “more is better of these behaviors,” says Hogervorst – in other words, the more healthy lifestyle factors you can combine, the better your chances of preserving your memory and staving off dementia. Notably, this held true even for people who carried the APOE gene associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. “These results provide an optimistic outlook, as they suggest that although genetic risk is not modifiable, a combination of more healthy lifestyle factors are associated with a slower rate of memory decline, regardless of the genetic risk,” wrote the study authors. The study stands out because of its size and follow-up over time, and because it was conducted in China, whereas “most publications are based on western high-income countries,” Carol Brayne, a professor of public health medicine at the University of Cambridge who researches older people and dementia, said in an email. However, the study authors acknowledge several limitations, including that people’s own reports of health behaviors may not be fully accurate, and that the people who took part in the study were more likely to be leading healthy lives to begin with. Some of the study’s findings differ from the results of other large studies conducted in the United States and in Europe, says Hogervorst. For instance, the BMJ study found that the lifestyle factor with the greatest effect on reducing memory decline was a balanced diet. Other studies have suggested that diet matters less in old age than physical and mental exercise, says Hogervorst. Still, its results align with the broad scientific consensus that there is a link between how we live and our cognitive function as we age – and perhaps more important, suggest that it may never be too late to improve your brain health. “The overall message from the study is a positive one,” Snorri B. Rafnsson, associate professor of aging and dementia at the University of West London, said in an email. “Namely, that cognitive function, and especially memory function, in later life maybe positively influenced by regularly and frequently engaging in different health related activities.” “These results provide an optimistic outlook, as they suggest that although genetic risk [for memory decline] is not modifiable, a combination of more healthy lifestyle factors are associated with a slower rate of memory decline, regardless of the genetic risk.” – Study authors

12 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE www.veronews.com The beautiful lakefront residence at 2255 3rd Place SW in The Preserve subdivision makes a great first impression, set well-back on its spacious lot, amidst picturesque live oaks, palms and other mature landscaping. The lofty entry portico featuring columns and double arches; the front door, with its graceful leaded glass oval, beneath a transom; and the wide, arched double window, create exceptional curb appeal and offer a gracious welcome. Soaring to the 15-foot height of the entry portico, the foyer is just the first example of this home’s wonderful light-infused interior design. The lofty, multi-vaulted ceilings, interesting angles, tall doorways, and pale sand/cream/white palette make extraordinary use of light and shadow. You will immediately notice the gorgeous sweep of stone tile flooring that flows throughout the entire home, its design executed in several subtle, perfectly laid variations from space to space. A hip wall separates the foyer from the dining room, where natural light flows in through the front portico window. When night falls, the congenial ambiance is enhanced with soft illumination from one of the home’s well-chosen chandeliers, hanging from the tray ceiling. As throughout the home, the light and airy living room and family room, which are connected via a wide, angled archway, provide a fine backdrop for your own style and color preferences. Here, too, you’ll notice two of the home’s attractive ceiling fan/lights, each one a different, space-appropriate design. Both living room and family room have access to the screened-in swimming pool, deck and lanai via French doors equipped with blinds – same as all the windows throughout the home. From the living room/dining room, a second archway accesses the open, eatin island kitchen, which sports handsome 42-inch solid wood cabinetry with crown molding and mottled brown/cream/black beveled granite countertops. New stainless steel appliances include side-by-side, water-dispenser fridge, builtin microwave, five-burner, smooth-top Smart range with convection oven and air fryer, and what the owners call “the world’s quietest dishwasher.” The kitchen also houses a pantry. The two-level, angled island has cabinets, a deep stainless-steel double sink and, on the living room side, a long lunch bar. Just past this counter, along a wide window looking out upon the pool patio, you’ll discover the perfect spot for a breakfast nook set-up, illuminated by another charming chandelier. The laundry room contains washer, dryer, wall cabinets, a cabinet sink and hanging space. Creating the perfect illumination throughout this special residence – in ad- ‘Preserve’ home features lake view and many updates By Samantha Rohlfing Baita | Staff Writer [email protected]

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE March 23, 2023 13 dition to the recessed lighting, fan/lights and simple, elegant chandeliers – are four solar tubes installed in 2019 by owner Charlie Robb. While not skylights, these tubular daylighting devices serve a similar purpose in admitting natural light, channeling sunlight through a translucent bulb on the roof. From the central living space a pocket door leads to the guest wing, where two guest bedrooms, both with custom closets, share a full bath with tub/shower. On the opposite side of the home, the primary suite is a cool retreat, featuring a lofty, double-tray ceiling, ceiling fan stirring the air, and a walk-in closet. Plenty of ambient light flows in through a wide window and door letting onto the pool patio, both offering tropical views of verdant landscape and sparkling lake. The spacious, L-shaped primary bathroom with its creamy natural colors and warm honey-hued cabinetry invites relaxation. There is a big soaking tub within a sand-hued tile alcove beneath a glassblock window, with plenty of room for a candle, wine glass and book; just add music and forget the hectic day. Around the corner, adjacent to the tub, is a large, glass-front, walk-in shower, glowing with soft natural light through a second glass block window. One of the Robbs’ favorite features of their home is outside – the lanai and screened pool and deck, a natural haven for family gatherings and parties large and small, with doors open to the home’s main rooms. This exceptional outdoor space has wide views of sky, water and grassy slopes surrounding the lake, but also is very private, due to the home’s perfect placement on its spacious lot, where the mature landscaping screens you from neighboring homes while allowing lovely vistas. The gracefully curving pool and pool deck were fully resurfaced this year. The Robbs say, “The HOA here is really good. And we have good security.” The Preserve is only a few minutes’ drive from everything Vero Beach has to offer, including the downtown restaurant and gallery district and Vero’s charming Village by the Sea on the barrier island with it’s up-scale resorts, restaurants, pubs, boutiques, professional theater, art museum, tennis center, marina, parks and miles of clean, uncrowded beaches. Neighborhood: The Preserve • Year built: 2005 Construction: CBS; shingle roof Home size: 1,950 square feet • Lot size: 80’ X 125’ Bedrooms: 3 • Bathrooms: 2 Additional features: Central heat/air with new AC in 2018; 2-car garage; split floor plan; new roof in 2022; new stainless steel appliances; tile flooring; pool w/screen enclosure; custom closets; accordion shutters/hurricane rated garage door; smart range; attic/pull-down stairs; whole-house sound system; vaulted/tray ceilings; crown molding; 4 solar tube lights; custom walk-in closets; 3-stage, under-counter water filtration system; laundry room w/sink; county sewer; public water; gated community with HOA Listing agency: AMAC Alex MacWilliam Real Estate Listing agents: Kimberly Keithahn, 772-321-4656, and Carolyn Lange, 772-473-7982 Listing price: $549,000 FEATURES FOR 2255 3RD PLACE SW

14 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE www.veronews.com MAINLAND REAL ESTATE SALES: MARCH 13 THROUGH MARCH 17 TOP SALES OF THE WEEK A solid week for real estate transactions on the mainland saw 37 single-family residences and lots change hands (some shown below). The top sale of the week was in Vero Beach, where the 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence at 2356 Grand Harbor Reserve – listed in January for $1,600,000 – sold for $1,610,000 on March 17. Representing the seller in the transaction was agent Sally Daley of Douglas Elliman Florida LLC. Representing the buyer was agent Troy Westover of Dale Sorensen Real Estate Inc. SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCES AND LOTS ORIGINAL SELLING TOWN ADDRESS LISTED ASKING PRICE SOLD PRICE VERO BEACH 2356 GRAND HARBOR RESERVE 1/15/2023 $1,600,000 3/17/2023 $1,610,000 VERO BEACH 2253 6TH AVE SE 1/26/2023 $865,000 3/17/2023 $802,000 VERO BEACH 1325 55TH CT SW 1/17/2023 $650,000 3/15/2023 $685,000 VERO BEACH 5540 N HARBOR VILLAGE DR #303 12/1/2022 $595,000 3/16/2023 $560,000 VERO BEACH 6047 SEQUOIA CIR 1/4/2023 $550,000 3/16/2023 $540,000 VERO BEACH 4775 WOOD DUCK CIR 11/17/2022 $520,000 3/17/2023 $503,000 VERO BEACH 6475 55TH SQ 12/6/2022 $499,900 3/14/2023 $485,000 VERO BEACH 5137 UNITY SQ 1/30/2023 $467,500 3/15/2023 $467,500 VERO BEACH 1460 BRUNTSFIELD TER 1/26/2023 $459,900 3/13/2023 $459,900 VERO BEACH 5263 UNITY SQ 1/13/2023 $468,000 3/15/2023 $450,000 SEBASTIAN 616 COTTONWOOD RD 1/30/2023 $450,000 3/15/2023 $440,000 VERO BEACH 3140 BROOKFIELD DR 8/17/2022 $550,000 3/16/2023 $435,000 SEBASTIAN 1180 CROQUET LN 12/9/2022 $440,000 3/17/2023 $430,000 VERO BEACH 2535 44TH AVE 1/23/2023 $414,900 3/15/2023 $409,000 Stats were pulled 3/18/23 11:45 AM

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE March 23, 2023 15 HERE ARE SOME OF THE TOP RECENT INDIAN RIVER COUNTY REAL ESTATE SALES. Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: 1/4/2023 $550,000 3/16/2023 $540,000 Jennifer Bailey Dale Sorensen Real Estate Inc. NOT PROVIDED NOT PROVIDED 6047 Sequoia Cir, Vero Beach 12/1/2022 $595,000 3/16/2023 $560,000 Diane De Francisci Alex MacWilliam, Inc. Daina Bertrand The Moorings Realty Sales Co. 5540 N Harbor Village Dr, Unit #303, Vero Beach 1/17/2023 $650,000 3/15/2023 $685,000 Kelly Fischer ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Gary Sutcliffe ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty 1325 55th Ct SW, Vero Beach 1/26/2023 $865,000 3/17/2023 $802,000 Aleks Morina LOKATION Ralph Santoro Billero & Billero Properties 2253 6th Ave SE, Vero Beach Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: 11/17/2022 $520,000 3/17/2023 $503,000 Mette Seaton Keller Williams Realty Mette Seaton Keller Williams Realty 4775 Wood Duck Cir, Vero Beach Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: 12/6/2022 $499,900 3/14/2023 $485,000 Cheryl Michel ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Cheryl Michel ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty 6475 55th Sq, Vero Beach

16 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE www.veronews.com Fresh off a $4.5 billion deal with a massive Blackstone Inc. property fund, the University of California’s investment office is looking to pour more money into real estate – this time focusing close to home. The university is proposing to deploy $2 billion to buy or finance buildings near its 10 campuses, including dorms, faculty housing, classrooms and lab space. The properties would be “strictly investment assets, acquired at market rates” and managed by an in-house team, according to a summary prepared for Thursday’s meeting of the university’s Board of Regents. The proposal by the biggest public research university system in the U.S. comes as investors are pulling away from real estate, with inflation and higher interest rates undercutting values. This month’s collapse of Silicon Valley Bank adds more uncertainty to the economy in California, where the lender played a pivotal role in the venture capital and startup ecosystem. The Blackstone fund, known as BREIT, has faced heightened redemption requests, prompting the investment giant to limit outflows while pledging to help support 11.25 percent annual returns in exchange for the University of California’s six-year, $4.5 billion commitment. BREIT, which invests in multiple property types, owns 289,000 U.S. rental-housing units and is the country’s biggest student-housing landlord. University employee union representatives criticized the BREIT deal in January, arguing Blackstone aggravates California’s housing crisis by prioritizing profits over providing affordable shelter. The cost of living near classrooms has pushed some University of California students into homelessness, leading campuses to offer emergency housing services. “UC should be both investing in more affordable-housing supply and higher wages for its most vulnerable workers,” Kathryn Lybarger, an adviser representing labor on the UC Regents Investment Committee, said in a statement. Funds for the new real estate push would come from the university’s pension and endowment pools, which had a combined $100.8 billion as of Dec. 31. An in-house “entrepreneurial team” would be created to spearhead the effort. The university may have a model in the Washington State Investment Board, which established in-house real estate operating companies decades ago, according to Ashby Monk, executive director of the Stanford Research Initiative on Long-Term Investing. Those companies have been the biggest drivers of returns for the board’s property portfolio, according to the latest annual report for the $150 billion state pool. “Great evidence of how to do it exists in the US pension industry,” Monk said in a telephone interview. University of California’s chief investment officer, Jagdeep Bachher, floated a $1 billion in-house real estate unit at a January meeting after regent Jose Hernandez questioned why the university was giving money to Blackstone instead of investing directly in campus housing. The investment office has a fiduciary duty to generate market-rate returns, which rules out investing in reduced-rent housing for students or employees, Nathan Brostrom, the university’s chief financial officer, said at a November Board of Regents meeting. “I certainly don’t want to take on another day job of trying to be a real estate developer,” Bachher said at the November meeting. “But I think within the boundary conditions of this great institution, there’s a huge opportunity here to be in business for real estate.” Univ. of California wants to bet $2B on real estate deals By John Gittelsohn | Bloomberg

Think music and theater in the next few days. Live! From Vero Beach brings in Classic Albums Live performing Riverside Theatre has a couple of offerings designed to captivate. David Mamet’s intense drama “Oleanna” runs through April 9 in the more intimate Waxlax Theater. Mamet’s play was written in 1992 but the subject matter resonates today. It concerns the power dynamics between a college professor and a female student. The show contains adult language and situations. Tickets cost $65. The play performs at various times and has plenty of matinees. If the idea of theater in general intrigues, then consider Riverside’s “Backstage Access” program. This is a series of adult courses that take close-up looks at Riverside’s productions. You’ll BIGGIE SMALLS: A FAB FRENCHIE CONTINUED ON PAGE B4 VERO’S THEATRICAL SPOTLIGHTS ARE ON ‘OLEANNA,’ ‘PIPPIN’ By Pam Harbaugh | Correspondent Coming Up 1 VNA MOBILE CLINIC: B6 AN INVALUABLE TOOL 6 GALA GUESTS IN A GIVING GROOVE B12 ‘SEAS’ THE DAY MARITIME SCENES FLOAT ARTIST ZIEGLER’S BOAT PAGE B2

B2 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | ARTS & THEATRE www.veronews.com Water, water, everywhere is an apt description of the artwork of Rita Ziegler, whose paintings of sailboats fill a unique niche in the local art scene, with many of them sold to mariners themselves. “Sailors who buy my paintings always check the boat’s rigging before they buy. I am known for my accuracy,” says Ziegler, who has sailors from near and far as steady customers of her work. “They’ll come in and study the painting, and I hear them say, ‘She got it right. It’s the way it’s supposed to be.’” That attention to detail was honed during her career days, in graphic design and later as a technical BY DEBBIE TIMMERMANN | CORRESPONDENT Rita Ziegler. PHOTOS: JOSHUA KODIS ‘Seas’ the day Maritime scenes float artist Ziegler’s boat

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | ARTS & THEATRE March 23, 2023 B3 publication manager, illustrating minutely detailed drawings of aircraft and helicopter parts at Sikorsky Aircraft in Connecticut, which had to be correct down to the smallest detail. Having lived on or near the water her whole life, she says she is drawn to its beauty and to the varying moods of the ocean and sky. She developed a love of seascapes during the time she spent salt-water fishing from her family boat in Long Island Sound. And, while she has only ever owned motorboats, Ziegler says she appreciates the beauty, simplicity and grace of the sailing vessels. Her signature style is reminiscent of older schools, not only depicting the details of the craft, but displaying them in motion as they tackle nature’s elements in a fashion that any seafarer can relate to. Ziegler’s choice of color palettes creates restful and calming paintings, even while depicting that movement and energy. “My paintings have a calm and serene look. I use muted colors, and people really like that,” says Ziegler, whose ships are often seen against a misty background, creating an ethereal feel. To obtain the look, she says, “I use subdued colors and layers of subdued colors.” In her artworks, the water surrounding the boats reflects the light, and the pieces are depicted with a depth, warmth and uncanny realism. “I’m happiest when painting. If I don’t paint, I get moody,” Ziegler confesses, noting that she paints pretty much every day, even if only for a couple of hours. “I pick up a paintbrush and get into the zone again, and really feel alive and happy.” Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ziegler earned a bachelor’s degree at Fairfield University in Connecticut, while employed fulltime, and she studied art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Paier School of Art. She and her husband started their family in King of Prussia and later moved to Connecticut. Ziegler first began painting in 1999, as she was getting ready to retire, initially choosing watercolors as her medium of choice. They moved to Vero Beach in 2003, having studied communities up and down the coast, and Ziegler soon began working in oil. She explains that oils are easier to mount than watercolors, not needing to be behind glass, which is a plus in our humid conditions. Ziegler says one of Vero’s major draws was the Vero Beach Museum of Art and its wealth of art classes. Then thinking to herself, “I would just be in my glory if I could do that,” she now does just that, teaching classes in oils at the museum. “It’s very unstructured, I let them do what they want, and I help them. I kind of call it coaching them,” says Ziegler. She joined the Artists Guild Gallery in 2006, when it was housed at Royal Palm Pointe, and remains a partner member today in its 14th Street location in the Arts District, where her work is displayed. She also offers classes there. Ziegler is an active member of the Vero Beach Art Club, and served as the applications chair for the recent Under the Oaks Fine Arts and Crafts Show, put on by the VBAC. The committee this year was charged with narrowing down an initial 700 artist applications to just over 200 artists for the juried show, a well-attended, weekend-long event that annually draws thousands of visitors to Riverside Park. Ziegler says she is always amazed at the vast number of people who came from outside the area to partake of Vero’s rich and diverse art scene and meet other artists. In addition to regularly being accepted into Under the Oaks, Ziegler’s paintings have won awards at the VBAC Art by the Sea Fine Arts & Crafts Exhibition, and at various juried shows in Connecticut. The Fiber ArT STudio Weaving, Fabric Collage and Basket Coiling Lessons and Workshops available Open: Wednesday & Thursday 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Or By Appointment, Call Leigh 440-552-8578 57 Royal Palm Pointe Vero Beach, FL 32960 Verofiberartstudio.com

B4 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | ARTS & THEATRE www.veronews.com learn more than the average audience member about the theater as art, examining plays, designs, direction and acting. This is real behind-the-scenes stuff. The classes are popular, so best hop to now and sign up. There are a total of three classes in the series and they meet 10 a.m. to noon on Thursdays, March 30 (“History of the Show”), April 6 (Exploration of Designs and possible sit-in on rehearsal) and April 13 (Chats with directors, designers, cast and staff). Tuition is $75 for all three classes. Riverside Theatre is at 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach. Call 772-231-6990 or visit RiversideTheatre.com Vero Beach Theatre Guild presents “Pippin” through March 26. This is a high concept musical revolving around Pippin, the princely son of Emperor Charlemagne. Yearning to find more to life, he goes through a series of adventures and misadventures to find happiness. The show is directed by Ben Earman, music directed by Karen Wiggins and choreographed by Marty Mercado. It performs 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $40. The Vero Beach Theatre Guild is at 2020 San Juan Ave. Call 772-562-8300 or visit VeroBeachTheatreGuild.com. The Indian River Symphonic Association present two concerts this month. First is the Palm Beach Symphony which will perform Stravinsky’s “The Firebird” and Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F with guest pianist Misha Dichter. Gerard Schwarz conducts. Tickets are $80. The concert begins 7 p.m. Friday, March 24. The second concert is with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, which will perform Dvorak’s Symphony No. 7 and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto with guest violinist Sandy Cameron. JoAnn Falletta conducts. Tickets are $90. The concert begins 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 28. Both concerts are held at the Community Church of Vero Beach, 1901 23rd St. Call 772-778-1070 or visit IRSymphonic.org. The Vero Beach International Music Festival presents the Block/Bacon/ Ligia Trio 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 26. Mike Block (cellist/vocals) will team up with Christylez Bacon (beatbox/rhymes/guitar) and Patricia Ligia (electric bass guitar/vocals) to create original world fusion music and some musical improvisation as well. Then, the festival presents the Hanneke Cassel Trio 7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 1. That concert features championship Scottish fiddler Hanneke Cassel accompanied by Yann Falquet (guitar) and Block. Tickets are $20. All performances held at the First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach, 520 Royal Palm Blvd. For more information or to get tickets, visit Vero.show. The Vero Beach Museum of Art presents Mike Telesmanick in its Concerts in the Park series. This is a BYO lawn chair event. There will be refreshments available for purchase. The concert runs 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 23, at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, 3001 Riverside Park Dr. Tickets are $10 and $12. For more information, call or visit VBMuseum.org. The Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce also is presenting a Concerts in the Park series. The first one features swing-a-billy rocksters Professor Pettygoodes’ Mighty Flea Circus. They perform 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, March 24, in Riverview Park, 600 U.S. 1, Sebastian. There will be food trucks on site. Bring a blanket or a chair. Free. Call 772- 589-5969 or visit SebastianChamber.com. EagleMania performs 7 p.m. Friday, March 24, at the Emerson Center. The tribute band will perform not only the greatest hits of the Eagles, but also some of the solo work by Don Henley, Glenn Frey and Joe Walsh. Tickets are $35 to $85. For more information, visit MusicWorksConcerts.com or call 800-595-4849. The Emerson Center is at 1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach. The Senior Expo runs 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, March 23, at the Indian River County Fairgrounds. There will be medical screenings, speaker presentations, and information on services and resources ranging from healthcare to cultural events. There will also be food trucks on site. Admission is free. The Indian River County Fairgrounds is at 7955 58th Ave., Vero Beach. For more information, visit SeniorServicesIRC.org. 5 CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1 3 4 2 6 7 8 ⬆⬆Palm Beach Symphony and Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra ⬇⬇

Congratulations VBHs sCHolars! VBHS celebrates the academic accomplishments of our amazing students. You are the BEST of the BEST. Congratulations on your commitment to your academic and future success! FaCulty Honored By graduating seniors Carrie Adams, Aquaria Baines, Victoria Bayless, Jeff Bush, Stephen Byrd, Julie Carroll, Carl Clemons, Amy Coonce, Chris Erfurt, Kimberly Garcia, Laura Glunt, Page Howell, Ayhan Lambaz, Caroline Maschoff, Alison Moody, Maria Morgan, Nicole Mosblech, Holly Ohs, Omaira Pineda, Jeremy Pohl, Joshua Post, Patty Poysell, Beth Ratliff, Susan Ridlin, Amy Russell, Jenna Specker, Paul Tomlinson, Derek Wingate, Jessica Wood, Todd Wood, Vick Von Saman, Liz Trax National Merit Finalist: Caysen Campbell TOP 10 Seniors: Katherine Dalton, Camden Elwell, Zachary Hessler, Alexander Johnson, Edward Johnson, Madison Gravlee, Kara Malone, Anthony Marzouk, Caysen Campbell, Elizabeth De Schouwer, Mary Amos Valedictorian and Salutatorian: Katherine Dalton and Camden Elwell unWeigHted 4.0 sCHolars Seniors: Elizabeth Arden, Sydney Braun, Caysen Campbell, Katherine Dalton, Sarah Duffany, Camden Elwell, Kerrigan Gilmore, Zachary Hessler, Alexander Johnson, Edward Johnson, Isabelle Leatherman, Addison Malik, Kara Malone, Chloe Offutt, Tess Paterson, Elaina Simon Juniors: Gail Bariteau, Andrew Bickel, Nathaniel Birnholz, Kamila Branka, Samara Coakley, Rowan Collings, Owen Collins, Hunter Coughlin, An Doan, Liliana Elliott, Rachel Sae Estillore, Luke Franco, Ryan Hall, Remi Heyer, Abigail Hunt, Sadie Johnson, Samantha Lambert, Keila Lazo, Tanner Lenhardt, Yessenia Martinez, Marley Massey, Mollie Mccain, Gracie Mcgee, Dorothy Mysiuk, Ava Sesack, Nassrallah Takhsaiti, Marcos Viloria, Rowen Wilke, Nicole Zhao Sophomores: Tyler Abbey, Elisa Beverly, Angel Carillo, Bryson Darnell, Ethan, Darnell, Jackson Gravlee, Anna Gruber, Paige Keen, Beatrice Mantel, Phat Ngo, Michael Roth, Aracelys Sanchez, Coleton Schlitt, Simon Schwartz, Savannah Seaman, Sandra Shanad, Garrett Srigley, Ava Steadman, Lirim Turkaj, Kimberely Ung Davy, Arien Volgarino, Avery Volgarino, Alyssa Watson, Kailee Webster, Justin Woulard, Maggie Zhao Freshmen: Rayne Agnew, Isabella Alvarez Reve, Addison Ames, Dylan Aviles- Narvaez, Samantha Baudo, Mikayla Bertrand, Ola Branka, Robert Burbic, Gabrielle Campione, Tyler Caudill, Payton Chico, Brooke Cline, Brandon Cone, Isabel D Albora, Christopher Davis, Jaden Dieuvil, Reese Dion, Aubrey Dunham, Ruth Estiverne, Elizabeth Farnham, Yuledivian Garcia, Declan Grall, Reese Harrington, Debora Hernandez, Aiden Jewett, Charlize Jijon, Joseph Kiley, Ella Kilman, Kaitlyn Klein, Natalia Lagunas, Vy Le, David Luedeke, Savina Magaro, Tori Malone, David Mendez, Miles, Miller, Jessica Mott, Areana Neil, Payton O’Neil, Nadia Pettit, Cheyanne Poppell, Benjamin Powers, Olivia Ragley, Joshua Reamy, Chase Resch, April Rios Osorio, Victor Rodriguez, Kelsie Seeley, Michael Skowron, Allison Smith, Camila Somocurcio, Raquelle Spalding, Jordan Staar, Jackson Summerall, Lavin Tangel, Lily Tate, Amy Tran, Hang Tran, Jaya Vernese, Darci Wagner, Hailee Wiebke, Kylie Williams, Chloe Wilson, Emily Wirth, Kyle Zhao VBHs sCHolars Seniors: Mary Amos**** Elizabeth Arden**** Marquis Baskin*** Ava Baysura**** Margaret Bender**** Sydney Braun**** Elizabeth Burgener**** Kayla Cameron*** Caysen Campbell*** Nevil Castillo Ayala* Peter Ciechanowski Madison Coddington** Caryl Custodio* Leon Dalgleish**** Katherine Dalton**** Aliza Monae Davis* Elizabeth De Schouwer*** Sarah Duffany**** Camden Elwell**** Persia Ferguson* Yelyzaveta Filipova* Haley Foulks**** Graham Frankenberger** Karma French**** Anne Fretwell**** Montserrat Gallegos** Victoria Gallegos** Kerrigan Gilmore**** Christina Glanville Caleisha Godwin**** Madison Gravlee**** Kristina Gregg*** Katie Hall*** Eva Heran**** Ana Hernandez** Yerik Herrera**** Zachary Hessler**** Jackson Hiller**** Danielle Himmel**** Blake Holshouser**** Ava Hudson*** Ty Hunter* Jessica Jablonski**** Leah Jacobs**** Olivia Jacobs**** Alexander Johnson**** Edward Johnson**** Gabrielle Kofke*** Kaitlyn Lawton**** Isabelle Leatherman**** Lila Legler*** Arianna Liebman*** Victoria Lloyd**** Vincent Lust**** Addison Malik**** Kara Malone**** Anthony Marzouk**** Dominic Matkowsky**** Marie Mazzarella**** Rebecca McCain**** Thomas Miller**** Jannine Monfil* Aubrey Moxley**** Charlotte Moylan**** Carah Mullen**** James Murphy**** Mia Murray**** Jonah Nagy**** Chloe Offutt**** Aamarah Parris**** Tess Paterson* Jamie Penza**** Emily Perez Ramirez* Katelyn Ragen**** Abigail Ratliff** Madelyn Rebman*** Stanley Revange** Elijah Roberts**** Washington Robins**** Karolin Rodriguez Marqueaz** Sidney Rohm** Allison Runnels* Danielle Rustay** Sofia Sanchez* Parkyr Saylor** Madeline Shields*** Armando Silva** Elaina Simon**** Paige Smith**** Mary Stawara** Ethan Stokes**** Logan Tajman* Aaron Tran*** Benjamin Tran**** Simon Trax**** Angel Vazquez*** Alexa Vega**** Cole Von Saman**** Alexandra Whipp**** Rylie White**** Ric Williams* Ryan Woods*** Halie Wymer*** Diego Yrigoyen**** Juniors: Mark Bacon*** Gail Bariteau*** Andrew Bickel*** Nathaniel Birnholz*** Ariana Boudri*** Kamila Branka*** Colton Bregoff*** Jette Breitsprecher* Aidan Brown*** Lydia Brown** Samantha Brown** Sarah Calloway*** Preston Camacho*** Christopher Carton*** Megan Cass*** Olga Chernykh*** Delaney Chung*** Samara Coakley*** Rowan Collings *** Owen Collins*** Shawna Compton** Dakari Crumpler* Lydia Dalgleish*** Linh Dang*** Valentina Daza** Emilia De Pro** Zadie Diniz*** An Doan*** Lucille Dowd*** Ryan Dunn** Hailey Eisert*** Liliana Elliott*** Efe Erdogan** Andrew Ern*** Rachel Sae Estillore*** Rygel Ann Estillore*** Silas Ferrell*** Bryce Forrest*** Luke Franco*** Addison Gabbard*** Grace Gailliard*** Joshua Gavarrete*** Timothy Hale** Ryan Hall*** Henry Hazell*** Joshua Heilmler** Gael Hernandez*** Rebecca Hernandez*** Alexander Hessberger*** Remi Heyer*** Keirra Holycross*** Abigail Hunt*** Sadie Johnson*** Erin Kleinschmidt*** Ava Knowles*** Samantha Lambert*** Keila Lazo*** Tanner Lenhardt*** Sophie Leyda*** Ava Lilliquist* Emma Lockwood** Yessenia Martinez* Marley Massey*** Mollie McCain*** Bailey McCollom*** Gracie McGee*** Jillian Mcglynn* Rikesh Mehta*** Jason Mercuri* Ella Minton** Liam Modesitt*** Noah Molina*** Sage Morrow** Kara Murray** Dorothy Mysiuk*** Rachel Noonan* Daniela Nunez*** Emma O’Riordan*** Kayla Osowski*** Cayla Pappadouplos*** Dylan Paterson* Eli Perez*** Seth Pietsch*** Joshua Putman** Nicholas Rambala** Adamaris Ramirez*** Marlon Russell*** Leeora Sanchez*** Ava Sesack*** Journey Setzer*** Jayden Short*** Andrew Simmens*** Johnathon Smith** Shyla Smith*** Kylie Stickle*** Bridget Sturgis*** Nassrallah Takhsaiti** Mia Tate*** Andrew Turkaj*** Alyssa Villalpando*** Marcos Viloria*** Gianna Walker** Mark Wallace*** Logan Wells*** Ansley Whigham*** Rowen Wilke*** Jahaylen Williams** Emma Wolf*** Kalani Wright** Nicole Zhao*** Sophomores: Tyler Abbey** Angeli Atayde* Ariel Beard** Asa Bernier** Elisa Beverly** Kalea Bieber** Lauren Bieber** Isabella Bok* Isabelle Burgener** Angel Carillo* Lenore Carter** Sophia Ciccone** Cody Clark** Kaitlyn Coffman** Steven Cooper** Kieko Coughlin** Alexis Cox** Enzo Crisafulli** Bryson Darnell** Ethan Darnell** Lara Davidovic** Grayton Del Tufo** Olivia Diaz** Edy Dowd** Huy Duong** Amelia Elliott** Effie Emigh* James Erpenbeck** Andrea Garcia* Ryan Gaston** Nicholas Gaughran** Liliana Gaverrete ** Daniel Giannelli** Noelia Gomez** Jackson Gravlee** Anna Gruber** Benjamin Hall** Avery Hamilton** Tristan Hart* Jonathan Hartzke** Milton Hernandez Castro** Ryley Hyatt* Ava Johnston** Paige Keen** Kaitlyn Kovatch** Grace Lamothe** Aleria Lester** Preston Lloyd** Beatrice Mantel** Barrett Marques** Triston Medecke** Jazmyn Morris* Madeline Mosher** Dylan Moxley** William Mullan** Allyson Muller** Phat Ngo** Ava Odom** Cassidy Olea** Elexus Ostrander** Addison Parris* Anthony Peterson* Derek Pickerill** Elizabeth Ponce* Jackson Rahal* Anamaria Ramirez** Haylie Ramos** Syeda Raza** Alaina Resch** Chad Reynolds** Craig Rigby** Angel Rivas** Adriana Rivas* Michael Roth** Giovanni Ruggeri** Aracelys Sanchez* Camila Sanchez* Riley Schaffer** Coleton Schlitt** Joel Schneider** Jacob Schoenfeld** Simon Schwartz** Savannah Seaman** Sandra Shanad** Jaleah Smith* Ellie Smith** Sophia Souza** Shiloh Spampanato** Garrett Srigley** Ava Steadman** Alexandra Straley** Brenton Sturgis** Hugh Thompson** Kayla Tran* Lirim Turkaj** Margaret Twardowski** Kimberly Ung Davy** Eric Vazquez** Arlen Volgarino** Avery Volgarino** Zachary Walsh* Tracey Warren** Alyssa Watson** Kailee Webster** Kennedy Wile** Jasmyne Williams* Justin Woulard** Logan Young** Maggie Zhao** Freshmen: Rayne Agnew* Isabella Alvarez Reve* Addison Ames* Chase Anderson* Isabella Aracena* Dylan Aviles-Naravaez* Samantha Baudo* Mikayla Bertrand* Ola Branka* Callum Buck* Nora Bumgarner* Robert Burbic* Gabriella Campione* Pressley Carroll* Sarah Carton* Tyler Caudill* Payton Chico* Timothy Cicco* Brooke Cline* Brandon Cone* Hunter Cook* Peyton Copper* Isabel D Albora* Christopher Davis* Ruby Degroat* William Della Porta* Karla Diaz Fuentes * Jaden Dievuil* Reese Dion Aubrey Dunham Aimee Echeverria Gabriella Espich Ruth Estiverne Tavaroua Evans Elizabeth Farnham Brooke Fletcher Sophia Foderaro Zack Franco Yuledivian Garcia Logan Geeraerts Reese Gibbons Azareah Gibson Declan Grall Kayla Haffield Reese Harrington Debora Hernandez Eshal Hussain* Aiden Jewett* Charlize Jijon* Janiyah Johnson* Johnae Johnson* Gavin Kelley* Abrielle Kendrick* Joseph Kiley* Ella Kilman* Kaitlyn Klein* Natalie Kolesnik* Natalia Lagunas* Vy Le* Jailynn Lorenzo* David Luedeke* Savina Magaro * Tori Malone* Bella Marini* Javontray Marshall* Luke McGuigan* Tashiya Mcmillon* David Mendez* Miles Miller* Jessica Mott* Charlotte Muller* Areana Neil* Declan Oneill* Payton O’Neill* Brittany Ortega* Pari Patel* Kaori Perdomo* Nadia Pettit* Kathy Phan* Cheyanne Poppell* Benjamin Powers* Sydney Pridgeon* Olivia Ragley* Kathryn Rahal* Joshua Reamy* Isabella Recco* Chase Resch* Aniston Reynolds* April Rios Osorio* Victor Rodriguez* Keiver Rodriguez* Samuel Rodriguez* Juan Ruiz* April Santes* Kelsie Seeley* Emma Shields* Michael Skowron* Allison Smith* Camila Somocurcio* Raquelle Spalding* Jordan Staar* Kali Staniewicz* Reshma Sukhu* Jackson Summerall* Lavin Tangel* Lily Tate* Jordan Tomas* Jaslin Torres Urieta* Amy Tran* Hang Tran* Justin Tun* Gianaara Valdez* Jaya Vernese* Darci Wagner* Destiny Warmouth* Connor Watson* Bennett White* Hailee Wiebke* Mya Wild* Marisa Willcuts* Kylie Williams* Matthew Willis* Emily Wirth* Andrew Youssef* Kyle Zhoa*

B6 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | SEEN & SCENE www.veronews.com Much like the Motown song “Reach Out I’ll Be There” by the Four Tops, the Mental Health Association of Indian River County reached out for support and more than 200 guests responded as attendees of this year’s MHA Rocks Motown fundraiser at the Grand Harbor Golf Club. Guests put on their dancing shoes and wore their funkiest, solid gold and black attire for an evening filled with dancing, gourmet dining and generous donations through silent and live auctions. “This past year we’ve been trying to focus on our services to children, since the need for services and their families has increased by 73 percent,” said MHA CEO Phil Cromer, Ph.D. “During the pandemic people did what they had to do to get through, but now that they are reintegrating back into school and socializing with friends, they unravel. The height of a mental health crisis occurs about a year after the pandemic, so even though COVID might be kind of over, the mental health crisis is ramping up.” Cromer said they are coming up with creative ways to reach children who might need some help. “We are still with the Boys and Girls Club and in the schools, but we are also collaborating with Youth Guidance and the Vero Beach Rowing Association so that during the summer we can offer a weeklong program where we get the kids out on the water and teach them how to row. They will have a therapist with them teaching them team building and social skills.” Additionally, MHA is expanding their mental counselor training programs to try to meet the increased demand. They now have intern programs for master level counselors and social workers as well as a new program for doctorate students from FIT. The MHA has received appropriation to expand their center and offer additional free services, even for some who have insurance. “Our screenings are free to everyone,” said Angela Guzenski, COO of MHA. “If someone is under 300 percent of the poverty level, we can offer free services to them under a new program even if they have insurance. This is opening up our services to those who may have insurance but can’t find providers or have to wait for several weeks to be seen. At MHA we have no barriers for mental health services.” MHA continues to offer peer-to-peer support through their Veterans Meet-Up group in collaboration with Gold Star Mothers of Indian River County, Dogs for Life and Next Gen Vets, and added a female only Veterans and First Responders group. They served more than 1,000 unduplicated clients at their Walk-In & Counseling Center last year, 80 percent of whom said they would not have gotten the help they needed were it not for the MHA Walk-In Center. MHA wants you to remember that it’s OK to get help. All you have to do is reach out and MHA will be there. For more information, visit MHAIRC.org or call 772-569-9788. Motown gets guests in a giving groove at ‘Mental Health’ gala By Kerry Firth | Correspondent Travis Bass and Samantha Simigran. PHOTOS: JOSHUA KODIS Brad and Lisa Eskew with Luke Oliver. Stacy Cook and Tamara Darress with Michele and Rob Wayne. Garrett Abernathy, Caroline Stawara, Evan Genoni, Pierce Genoni and Finn Genoni.

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | SEEN & SCENE March 23, 2023 B7 Anyone who has battled cancer, or has a loved who has, knows that the journey is a marathon, not a sprint, as Heather Reeb discovered. In memory of her parents, Debbie Maxwell and Rick Holt, who died six years apart from lung cancer that metastasized and moved to their brains, Reeb has been lacing up her running shoes to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Reeb has committed to run in the World Marathon Majors, which includes the Tokyo Marathon, Boston Marathon, TCS London Marathon, BMW Berlin-Marathon, Bank of America Chicago Marathon and TCS New York City Marathon. She ran the Chicago Marathon in 2012 and the New York Marathon in 2016 and will hit the halfway mark when she heads to London in April. Reeb says she is saving the Boston Marathon for last as it’s such a big deal in the U.S. “I started running to clear my head,” says Reeb, who initially ran as a way to deal with her grief after her father passed away in 2009. “It was a good outlet physically for my pain. We call that asphalt therapy for runners because you have that time to shut down and be quiet and free your mind,” she explains. “I downloaded an app called Couch to 5K. I started off just doing that.” Her first 5K was the annual United Against Poverty Turkey Trot held each Thanksgiving Day in Vero Beach. “I wondered what it would be like to go a little bit longer than a 5K, and then I started doing half marathons, and it just grew from there,” she added. “It became more and more and more, and then I started realizing that it was becoming selfish because when you run, you’re only doing it for yourself. That was when I started thinking about the American Cancer Society.” The single mother says she keeps going with the support of a wonderful group of friends and her two biggest supporters, sons Carter (18) and Harrison (16). Reeb says that surrounding herself with like-minded people who are “positive, selfless and understanding” has been motivational. “To be an endurance athlete takes a ton of mental power. In marathon training, you meet so many people that have recovered from amazing things. It’s not like I’m the only person who uses that as therapy,” says Reeb. “I’m very open about my journey, not just with the race but with my journey in life. I think people are very receptive to that because people are often afraid to share their pain and sadness. When you have someone willing to share their story, I feel like it opens up the avenue for someone to share theirs.” Reeb spoke at a Launch Party at American Icon Brewery to advance the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Indian River, which will be held April 14 at Riverside Park. She also spoke at a recent Gateway to Space 5K/10K held at the Kennedy Space Center. And she is one of 20 runners selected by the American Cancer Society to represent them in the London Marathon, according to Theresa Woodson, ACS senior community development manager. Reeb has already exceeded her $10,000 fundraising goal for the London Marathon, which is twice the goals she set in previous races. But with every dollar going to cancer research and support for patients and their families, she hopes to continue raising money. “Sometimes it’s the little things that make a difference,” says Reeb, recalling her mother’s battle. “My mom was one tough cookie, a Type-A female. She didn’t expect help from anybody and would never ask for help. When she was losing her beautiful blonde hair, that took a toll on her.” She says learning that the local ACS office has a room filled with wigs, hats and accessories that cancer patients are welcome to take was a “huge step in her emotional healing.” “Everyone’s journey and story is unique, but you have a choice at the end of the day about what to do with that. Do you take that pain and let it consume you and ruin all of your days ahead and all of the people that are in your life’s days? Or do you take that pain and turn it into power and do something amazing with that pain?” asks Reeb. “I would never say that my parents’ death had a purpose, but at least I could bring some purpose to what happened. I couldn’t control that they were gone, but I could make my footprint a little bit bigger because they were gone. It doesn’t have to be the American Cancer Society. It just needs to be something, instead of taking that pain and making it miserable,” she continued. For information or to donate, visit mobileacs.org/cr9gup. Runner goes the distance – over and over – to fight cancer By Stephanie LaBaff | Staff Writer Heather Reeb. PHOTOS: JOSHUA KODIS

B8 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | DINING www.veronews.com Fine Dining, Elevated Exciting Innovative Cuisine Award Winning Wine List Unparalleled Service Expanded outdoor dining in The Café. Proud recipient of Trip Advisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award placing us in “The Top 10% of restaurants worldwide”. Catering Now Available (772) 234-3966 • tidesofvero.com Open 7 Days a Week Starting at 5 PM 3103 Cardinal Drive, Vero Beach, FL Reservations Highly Recommended • Proper Attire Appreciated Wine Spectator Award 2002 – 2021

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B10 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | DINING www.veronews.com

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B12 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | PETS www.veronews.com This week I got to go to a gym cuz my innerview-ee’s Mom an Dad are TRAYners who help humans do Fitness an Boxing, an he – Biggie Smalls Bass – is the Official Gym Dog. Biggie’s a 5-years-old, purebred French Bulldog, fawn color, squishy black face, perpetually earnest expression. He has ears that look like sails. An No Tail. Whatsoever. Zero. Nada. Just a bouncy liddle caboose and very good poss-chur. All in all, one super spruce poocheroo! Soon as me an my assistant walked in the gym door, he trotted right over for the Wagan-Sniff, wearin’ a tidy collar and short gold chain leash. Since he was of French origin, I decided to employ one of the three French phrases I knew, just in case. “Bone-SWAW, Mush-sure Bass!” “Well Bone-SWAW to you, too, Dude! Welcome to our gym. This is my Mom, Sam, an my Dad, Travis. You can call me Biggie. An no need for French. I’m from Sara-SODA.” “Thank Lassie!” I said, relieved. “I appreciate you takin’ time out of your busy day for an innerview.” “Happy to, Bonz – er, may I call you Bonz?” “Absolutely! You have such an intrestin’ life. I can’t wait to hear all about it, whenever you’re ready.” “Born ready!” Biggie said, and I grabbed my pen. “Mom an Dad already had a Husky, Jaxx, an, cuz they’re at the gym, like, all the time, they were lookin’ for a more portable pooch to be the Gym Dog. An it hadda be a bulldog, but a liddle one. They found a good breeder On The Line with phodos of my litter – 10 of us. We were all irresis-tubble, squishy-faced fuzzballs but I was the irresis-tubble-est. So the breeder brought me to Lake Placid where Mom an Dad picked me up. I was only 10 weeks old, an not only portable as required, but also playful, cuddly an mellow. Basically perfect, if I do say so. “Me an Jaxx had our first meetin’ at Gramma BamBam and Grampa Dave’s cuz it’s Noo-trull Territory. Got along right away. We’d chase each other. I’d do laps around him, of course. I’m not good at distance cuzza havin’ Very Short Legs, but I can Sprint Like Anything for a second. “I was a pretty well-buh-haved pupper except for one liddle habutt: Chewin’ Furniture. Mostly the wooden end tables. When I was alone in the house for what I felt to be Too Long, I’d chew the legs. After a while, they were pretty much chewed up. And that was the end of the end tables. Thank Lassie, I outgrew that. Now I only chew my tennis balls. I love playin’ catch, an they’re just the right size for my not-large mouth. Dad sometimes Fake Throws, an I go roarin’ after it, then I reelize he didn’t ackshully throw it. Makes me feel like a Total Doof! “I enjoy ridin’ in our car, an our golf cart, which we often take to work, since we live close by. Mom an Dad took me out on their jet skis one time, I had my own life vest an everything, but I was Not A Fan. I’m just not super into water, ya know? ’Cept in my bowl. I do enjoy leash walks, an sunbathin’ on the deck. I sorta like the beach. It’s great for diggin’, but the ackshull water not so much. Diggin’ in the yard’s way more fun.” “Do you have any speshull human or pooch pals?” I inquired. “Lemme see, there’s my leash walk neighbor Casper an his human, Miss Danielle. He’s liddler than me even. Jaxx is way bigger an probly kinda intimidatin’, but Casper’s not afraid of me. He says we’re Fun Size. “My human gym buddies are Liam, he’s 8 in human, an Landon, he’s 5. My Mom an Dad offen watch ’em, here at the gym, for their Mom an Dad. They’re Cool Kibbles liddle human puppers. “Oh, an I almost for-GOT, we have a bran new Husky pupper at home, Nash, he’s jus 5 months old. We’re all three gonna go to Training Class together soon as he gets the OK from our vet, after his No Puppies Procedure.” “Any favrite foodstuffs?” “Well, I totally love buh-nanas an peanut budder. Since I have a Sensitive Tummy, I hafta eat speshull food. For a treat I get a chiggen an sweet puh-tado pot pie snack. Majorly Yummy. An if I need to take any medicine, Mom puts it in a liddle piece of buh-nana.” “Humans are clever that way,” I observed, then asked, “Where do you sleep?” “Well, Bonz, I am a Daddy’s Boy, so – I sleep with him. I know he totally loves me cuz I snore Really Loud! Ackshully, I don’t know if you noticed, but I sorta snort a LOT. Mom says I sound like a liddle piglet. Us French Bulldogs often have that issue cuzza our smushy faces. I guess it’s the price we pay for Adorable-ness. “Anyway, I know it’s gettin’ close to bedtime when we all settle in together an watch TV. I speshully enjoy ‘Pup Academy’ on Netflix. When they bark, I bark back. It’s the puh-lite thing to do, doncha think?” “Absolutely,” I agreed, then, “Speakin’ of TV, I saw on the Nooz a while back that, for the first time ever, a French Bulldog (who looks just like YOU!) won the top award, Best In Show, at last Thanksgiving’s National Dog Show. Congrats to you and your breed!” “Thanks, Bonz,” Biggie replied. “I did see that. I just didn’t wanna boast but, since you brought it up, I thought it was about fluffin’ time us Frenchies received our Just Desserts! We’re small but mighty. His name is Winston, by the way. He also won second at Westminster. His success makes me walk a little taller,” he grinned. Headin’ home, I was thinkin’ about sturdy, bouncy, mellow Biggie Smalls, small in stature but huge in personality and definitely walkin’ tall. Till next time, Hi Dog Buddies! How to size up Biggie Smalls? He’s a fab Frenchie! The Bonz Don’t Be Shy We are always looking for pets with interesting stories. To set up an interview, email [email protected]. Biggie Smalls. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | GAMES March 23, 2023 B13 TRY TO DRAW THE KEY INFERENCE By Phillip Alder - Bridge Columnist You are watching a football match. The quarterback hurls a bomb into the end zone, but you don’t see who catches the ball. However, a referee puts up both of his arms — a touchdown. You have drawn an inference based on the available evidence. It is the same thing at the bridge table. You must use the information at your fingertips to decide who holds which cards. North’s three-heart response was a limit raise, showing about 11 points and at least four trumps. Despite the potentially worthless spade king, South had to move on to game. With an unappealing lead, West chose the heart two. (It was recommended to lead low from a doubleton in the trump suit. Now, though, experts would choose the 10, a suit-preference signal for spades.) Declarer won with his nine, cashed the heart ace and led a low diamond, winning with dummy’s queen. West took the next diamond lead and exited with his final diamond. Now declarer cashed the club ace and exited with a club to West’s king. West was endplayed. He had to lead a spade, allowing declarer to collect his 10th trick with the spade king. West should have seen this coming. For his game raise, South had to have the spade king. If he had the club ace-jack as well, the contract was unbeatable. (Also, he would have taken the club finesse, not cashed the ace first.) So East was marked with the club jack. Under the club ace, West should have jettisoned the king. Then East would have taken a trick with his club jack, and a spade switch would have given the defenders four tricks. Dealer: South; Vulnerable: Both NORTH 7 5 K 7 6 3 K Q 2 Q 10 7 3 WEST A Q 10 9 4 2 10 2 A 10 8 K 4 SOUTH K 3 A Q J 9 4 J 4 3 A 8 2 EAST J 8 6 8 5 9 7 6 5 J 9 6 5 The Bidding: OPENING LEAD: 2 Hearts SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST 1 Hearts 1 Spades 3 Hearts Pass 4 Hearts Pass Pass Pass Established 18 Years in Indian River County (772) 562-2288 | www.kitchensvero.com 3920 US Hwy 1, Vero Beach FL 32960

B14 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | GAMES www.veronews.com The Telegraph How to do Sudoku: Fill in the grid so the numbers one through nine appear just once in every column, row and three-by-three square. The Telegraph SOLUTIONS TO PREVIOUS ISSUE (MARCH 16) ON PAGE B16 ACROSS 1 Honey-maker (3) 3 Large Greek island (6) 7 Graft, e.g. in a body (7) 8 Birdbrain (5) 10 Beach in Venice; swimming pool (4) 11 Authorised (8) 13 Quantity produced (6) 15 Vehicle location system (6) 17 Traffic notice (4,4) 18 Weaponry (4) 21 Spicy sauce; Cuban music (5) 22 Lively (musically) (7) 23 Tin ore (anag.) (6) 24 Consumed (3) DOWN 1 Two-legged creature (5) 2 Mild cheese (4) 3 Approve and OK (6) 4 Not a copy (8) 5 A number of copies (7) 6 Hoardings (10) 9 Goggle-box (10) 12 Parasol (8) 14 Retrial (anag.) (7) 16 Horrified (6) 19 Villain (5) 20 Defendant’s answer to a charge (4)

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | GAMES March 23, 2023 B15 ACROSS 1 Fact-finding mission 6 Damn Yankees dame 10 Short season? 13 Hair color 18 Electrifying pianist? (4) 20 “He took it like ___” 21 It goes with the flow 22 Electrifying singer-guitarist? (5) 24 Prognostics 25 Curative herb 26 “Time ___ ...” 27 Electrifying ballplayer? (4) 29 Philippine island 31 Islands studied by Mead 32 Bug on a hill 33 Skedaddle 35 “___ of the above” 36 Polite denial 39 John’s co-Avenger 43 Pharaoh’s symbol 46 Emissions 48 Electrifying singer? (3) 50 Electrifying actor? (4) 54 Swordfight 55 ___ Pedro 56 Melville novel 57 Sweet Betsy’s guy 58 Gun-toting 60 Hope-Crosby title words 62 On ___ (having fun) 64 Ore ending 65 Arcing shot 67 Egyptian goddess 68 Electrifying actor-director? (5) 72 Voucher 73 Benz follower? 74 Results of some pitch-outs: abbr. 75 Crooked 77 Simple footwear 79 Hercules et al. 81 Collection 82 M. Friedman’s forte 84 That girl 85 Reverberation 87 Electrifying Olympic runner? (5) 90 Electrifying French director? (3) 93 Western 94 ’70s terrorist org. 95 Hole-in-the-wall gang? 96 Not now 97 Border on 99 Word on a door 101 Alma mater of M. Scorsese 103 Portions (out) 105 Slangy hands 109 Electrifying tennis star? (3) 113 Pooh’s creator’s initials 116 Fonda role in My Darling Clementine 117 Fruit of forgetfulness 118 Electrifying physicist? (5) 121 Love, in Tuscany 122 Not bad 123 Electrifying actor? (5) 124 Patron saint of France 125 Space author Willy 126 “Cubist” Rubik 127 Lou Grant reporter DOWN 1 Delhi selections 2 Part of a plane’s name 3 Old computer insert 4 Severe trial 5 Modern, to start with 6 Tra followup 7 Singer Redding 8 Cinematography concern: abbr. 9 Disney lyricist Howard 10 Washington city 11 Themed dance 12 Mil. class 13 “The Godfather of Soul” 14 Restrictive 15 Relative of Roger 16 Hawaiian goose 17 Hospital VIPs 19 L.A. to Santa Barbara dir. 20 Hair style 23 Lackluster 28 Type of dive 30 Rubber floater 31 Not bad 34 Cigar brand 35 Actress Campbell 37 “... an ___ new tricks” 38 God for whom a weekday is named 40 A magician does it 41 Castle waters 42 Part of A.D. 43 Garlic, to Garcia 44 Intoxicating plant juice 45 The acid in Coca-Cola 47 “Don’t ___ laugh!” 48 Wheel projection 49 Plaza Hotel girl 51 Half an exercise motto 52 Narrow strip of wood 53 Physician, e.g. 59 Building wings 61 Letter signoff 63 Actor Hauer 64 Slurpee’s rival 66 Most like Newman’s eyes 69 Like a family business, maybe 70 Author Ferber 71 Song of praise 72 Dear, to Delon 76 Mr. Coward 77 The opposing team 78 Theologian John Duns ___ 80 Co. that makes things 81 Card game 83 Heat-packing grp. 86 Loser to RMN in ’68 88 We, non? 89 City in Utah 91 Long time 92 Bridge maneuver 97 Jai ___ 98 “Better to ___ than sorry” 100 Pitching brother Joe or Phil 102 Approvals 104 Paris airport 106 Negotiations 107 Kilmer classic 108 Heidi penner 109 Apple or pear 110 Harrow rival 111 Off-base? 112 Longtime colleague of Morley and Lesley 113 NOW, for one 114 “Got it,” facetiously 115 Do the floor 117 Tom or Huck, e.g. 119 Sea, non? 120 Parker’s responsibility? The Telegraph The Washington Post ELECTRIFYING PEOPLE By Merl Reagle [email protected] 1964 14th Avenue 772.217.2161 HairIdentityVB.com BOOK TODAY FOR ALL YOUR HAIR AND NAIL NEEDS. FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

B16 March 23, 2023 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | CALENDAR www.veronews.com Check with organizations directly for updates/cancellations. Vero Beach Theatre Guild: “Pippin” through March 26. VeroBeachTheatreGuild.com or 772- 562-8300 Riverside Theatre: “Oleanna” on the Waxlax Stage through April 9. 772-231-6990 or RiversideTheatre.com Vero Beach Museum of Art: Rolling Sculpture: Streamlined Art Deco Automobiles and Motorcycles exhibit through April 30. VBMuseum.org or 772-231-0707 First Friday Gallery Strolls, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Downtown Vero Beach Arts District. 22-24 Vero Beach Opera presents the Rising Stars Vocal Competition and Concert, with 2 p.m. Wed. and Fri. competitions, 7 p.m. Concert Fri., all at VBHS PAC. VfeeroBeachOpera.org 23 Senior Expo hosted by Senior Collaborative of IRC, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at IRC Fairgrounds, with medical screenings, speakers, and resources from healthcare to cultural events. Free. SeniorServicesIRC.org. 23 Concerts in the Park, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Vero Beach Museum of Art, with Mike Telesmanick. BYO lawn chair. $10 and $12 at the door. VBMuseum.org 24 Concerts in the Park presents Professor Pettygoodes Mighty Flea Circus, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Riverview Park. Free. SebastianChamber.com or 772-589-5969 24 Live from Vero Beach presents Eaglemania, the world’s greatest Eagles tribute band, 7 p.m. at the Emerson Center. 800-595-4849 24 Indian River Symphonic Association presents the Palm Beach Symphony, with conductor Gerard Schwarz and pianist Mischa Dichter, 7:30 p.m. at Community Church of VB. 772-778-1070 or IRSymphonic.org 25 Vero Beach Volunteer Fire Department’s annual Fish Fry, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fire Station 2, by Riverside Café. VBFire.org 26 Shabana Basij-Rasikh, a leading Afghan girls’ education advocate, global ambassador for Girl Rising and named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list, will speak at 12:30 p.m. at Community Church of Vero Beach. 772-562-3633 26 Vero Beach International Music Festival presents the Block/Bacon/Ligia Trio, 7:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, with Mike Block (cello/vocals), Christylez Bacon (rhymes/guitar) and Patricia Ligia (guitar/ vocals). $20. VeroBeachInternationalMusic Festival.com 27 Distinguished Lecturer Series presents Bjorn Lomborg, president of Copenhagen Consensus, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Riverside Theatre. 772-231-6990 or RiversideTheatre.com 28 Emerson Center E-Series presents Dr. Dennis Haniak of Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute on Reversing the Course of Sea Grass Loss in the Indian River Lagoon, 7 p.m. at the Emerson Center. Free. 772-778-5249 28 Indian River Symphonic Association presents the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, with conductor JoAnn Falletta and violinist Sandi Cameron, 7:30 p.m. at Community Church of VB. 772-778-1070 or IRSymphonic.org 29 Mardi Gras to benefit the We Care Foundation of Indian River, 6 p.m. at Oak Harbor Club, with jazz, street performers, entertainment and the Cajun cuisine of the Big Easy. $200. WeCareMardiGras.org 30 Successful Aging Luncheon to benefit Alzheimer & Parkinson Assoc., 12 Noon at Vero Beach Museum of Art featuring Olympic gold-medalist Scott Hamilton. $200. 772-563-0505 or AlzPark.org. 30 Live from Vero Beach presents the Best of Classic Rock with the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra, 7 p.m. at the Emerson Center. 800-595-4849 31 A Musical Evening to benefit Music Angels Education Fund, 7 p.m. at Majestic Theater, screening “10 Scientifically Proven Benefits of Music Education for Children,” followed by a concert by a Music Angels student and the Canta Libre quintet. $50. musicangelsusa.org 1 63rd annual COVB Easter Egg Hunt, 10 a.m. at Mulligan’s Beach House for children up to age 9, with egg hunting, golden egg winners and visits from the Easter Bunny. A donation of 6 empty plastic eggs requested. 772-231-4787 1 LagoonFest, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Environmental Learning Center, a family fun day with canoe rides, children’s activities, workshops, music, vendor booths and food trucks. $10 adults; $5 children. Quick trips via canoe ($10) or pontoon boat ($15). DiscoverELC.org. 1 MulletFest/MRAP Pull, 1 to 6 p.m. at Walking Tree Brewery to benefit St. Baldrick’s Foundation of IRC, with teams competing to pull a military light tactical vehicle 100 feet, followed by a mullet contest, with live music and games. WalkingTreeBrewery.com ONGOING MARCH APRIL Sudoku Page B14 Sudoku Page B15 Crossword Page B14 Solutions from Games Pages in March 16, 2023 Edition ACROSS 1 SIGHED 4 STEPPE 9 PARKA 10 IDIOTIC 11 DIN 12 NOBLE 13 ANGULAR 15 FLASHGORDON 19 THISTLE 20 OASIS 21 TAR 22 EXTINCT 24 DRAKE 25 TRANCE 26 CRYPTS DOWN 2 SUPINE 2 GARIBALDI 3 EVADE 5 TRIGGER 6 PIT 7 ESCORT 8 VINAIGRETTE 14 LOOKSHARP 16 SATANIC 17 STREET 18 ASSESS 20 ORDER 23 TEA Crossword Page B15 (DVD MOVIES) BUSINESS DIRECTORY - ADVERTISING INDIAN RIVER COUNTY BUSINESSES Our directory gives small business people eager to provide services to the community an opportunity to make themselves known to our readers at an affordable cost. This is the only business directory mailed each week. If you would like your business to appear in our directory, please call 772-633-0753. This is also where we publish Fictitious Name or “Doing Business As” notices, Public Notices and Employment ads. To place one, please email [email protected]. Surfing Lessons for Beginners All Equipment Provided Certified Master Surfing Instructor Lou Maresca Call Today, Surf Tomorrow 772-925-4402 ARE you turning 65 or new to Medicare? ARE you looking to review Medicare Choices for 2023. I can help you with over 10+years of experience, the dedication and honesty of a LOCAL INDEPENDENT agent that specializes in Medicare choices. Rose Mary McIlvain Treasure Coast Insurance Sources MAKE IT YOUR CHOICE! 772-766-1558