10/15/2020 ISSUE 42

Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™ Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 51

WINE COLUMN

This trend has only made the prob- the country and around the world can
lems facing the industry worse. As work-
ers leave, they can be difficult to replace: brace for shortages and high prices.
Their skills take time and training to de-
velop; immigration sweeps suppress the This might be the new normal. And
labor supply; mechanical harvesting,
while on the rise, doesn’t work for every it’s not as though things were peachy
vineyard topography or style of wine.
Worker shortages have driven up labor in the world of wine to begin with: De-
costs, cutting further into thin margins,
or simply left some vineyards without mand has been slowing as younger con-
hands to harvest their product.
sumers shed their parents’ infatuation
All of these concerns have left many
in the wine industry at their wits’ end, with all things wine, and as wine has
wondering how they can continue to
keep their businesses afloat. Espe- been used as a pawn in an ill-conceived
cially for smaller, independent opera-
tions, the difficulties caused by fires trade war with both China and Europe.
are eliminating pretax profits that were
often modest to begin with, or forcing Then came a pandemic and yet another
them to sell or take on debt to make
ends meet, hoping beyond hope that next year will be wildfire-free. did pick grapes prior to smoke exposure year of disastrous fires.
Meanwhile, between the fires and the and processed them at a winery with
consistent power supply, the wines are What is left is a collection of weary
COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 vintage likely to be exceptional.
will go down as the most challenging survivors trying to plan for an uncertain
and frustrating in California’s history. But this is small consolation for those
winemakers who will have nothing to future. “There’s definitely resolve and
Before the fires, the quality of this sell. While the numbers are not yet in,
year’s output was looking to be one some grape growers are grumbling that a ton of camaraderie here,” says Fisher.
of the finest in decades: Because of a half of this year’s crop – perhaps more –
warm, dry spring and hot weather in has been lost. With quality high and sup- “But there’s also a real fatigue.”
early August, the grapes had developed ply low, lovers of California wines across
complex flavor profiles. For those who All that we here in Northern Califor-

nia wine country can do now is wait for

the smoke to clear – even if jCuastlieSfoneronurivga’hsi n g Dinn
to see what lies ahead for
Rese
deeply troubled wine industry. 

CITRUS

E A R LY D I N I N G M E N U I S BAC K!

Tuesday - Thursday 5 to 6pm
2 Courses for $25

En joy a Bottle of H ouse Wi ne for $15

Serving Dinner Tuesday - Sunday from 5-9pm
Reservations Recommended • (772) 234-4114
1050 Easter Lily Lane • CitrusGrillhouse.com

Zagat Rated We would like to thank our loyal clientele for
2013 - 2020 all of your support during the summer as we
Wine Spectator Award
2002 – 2020 offered lunch and the mercantile.

As the season approaches we are pleased to
announce our return to regular business hours
serving dinner every night starting in October at 5 PM.

Online ordering and the Tides-to-go
are available for your convenience.
The Tides staff are COVID-19 certified and
all social distancing measures remain in effect.
Proud recipient of 2020 Trip Advisor
Traveler’s Choice Award placing us in the
“TOP 10% OF RESTAURANTS WORLD-WIDE”

Go to www.TidesofVero.com for
our specials and online ordering.

(772) 234-3966

3103 Cardinal Drive, Vero Beach, FL
tidesofvero.com

52 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

Vero & Casual Dining

Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™ Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 53

Vero & Casual Dining

SUNSET MENU - 3 FOR $23

FIRST COURSE
SOUP DU JOUR, CAESAR SALAD

OR WEDGE SALAD

UPGRADE TO A KALE OR BEET &
GOAT CHEESE SALAD $2

MAIN COURSE
PEPPER BACON JAM CRUSTED SALMON
PORK CHOP MILANESE • SHORT RIB RAVIOLI
CHICKEN MARSALA • PASTA PRIMAVERA

DESSERT
GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE BROWNIE,

KEY LIME PIE OR SORBET

CAN SUBSTITUTE DESSERTS FOR UP-CHARGE

OUTDOOR & INDOOR DINING PLUS CARRY OUT DINNER SERVICE AVAILABLE

Open 7 Days a Week • Lunch Mon - Fri 11-3pm • Dinner Mon-Sat 4:30-8pm
Sat Brunch 11-3pm • Sun Brunch 9-3pm

Sunset Menu Dinner Mon-Sat from 4:30-6pm • Please See Website for Full Menu
WWW.CITRONVERO.COM • 772.231.6556

LARGE OUTDOOR
SEATING AVAILABLE

BeOanTchhe side

Now Offering Gluten Free Cauliflower Crust Pizza
“The Best Authentic Cannelloni in Vero Beach”

772.231.9311

Check out our menu online
& follow us on Facebook

NINOSRESTAURANTS.COM
1006 Easter Lily Lane, Vero Beach
Hours: Sun-Thurs:11am-9 pm
Fri-Sat:11am-10 pm

DELIVERY AVAILABLE FOR DINNER

Established in 1981 Where the Locals Go for Pizza

54 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

Vero & Casual Dining

Texan Real Men TUESDAY NIGHT
Wear Pink ALL YOU CAN
VOTED BEST BURGERS EAT FISH FRY
IN VERO        WEDNESDAY
MAINE LOBSTER
SPECIAL PRICES ON
OPEN FOR LUNCH
PINK LADY COCKTAILS
BUDWEISER NITRO 12 OZ CANS WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY
PINK SUGAR FREE ADULT ICE CREAM
GET ONE OF OUR SPECIAL PINK T-SHIRTS OPEN TUES 4-8, WED - SAT NOON-8
PATIO DINING - DINE IN - TAKE OUT
DONATE AT HTTP//MAIN.ACEVENTS.ORG/GOTO/ARTURO
CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY
      
1931 Old Dixie • 772.770.0977 Follow Us
SOUTH VERO SQUARE  710 SOUTH US1  VERO BEACH
SEE FACEBOOK.COM/AMERICANGRILLVB FOR DAILY SPECIALS  772-410-8100 fishackverobeach.com • Like us on Facebook!
Gift Certificates & Private Parties Available

THE ENTIRE MENU IS
AVAILABLE FOR TAKEOUT

OR DELIVERY
AVAILABLE THROUGH

ONLINE ORDERING WITH
TOASTTAKEOUT.COM

PIZZA SPECIALS
TAKEOUT ONLY

TUESDAY NIGHT
2 DINNERS FOR $30.00

WINEY WEDNESDAY
WINE SPECIALS

DINE IN 4-8 PM

56 Royal Palm Pointe  772-567-4160  Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

LOCAL • FRESH • ORGANIC • NATURAL • MADE TO ORDER

BONISSIMO BOWL WITH TURKEY

OPEN: SIGNATURE SOUPS MADE DAILY
COLOMBIAN & AMERICAN COFFEE
MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8AM - 3PM VEGETARIAN OPTIONS
SATURDAY 8:30AM -2:00PM DAILY SPECIALS
GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS
OUTDOOR SEATING AVAILABLE FREE WIFI

SANDWICHES • ACAI BOWL • WRAPS • SOUPS • PASTRIES • SMOOTHIES • JUICES • SHOTS

915 17TH STREET, SUITE 101 • VERO BEACH, FL 32960 • 772-643-4975
PALATOCAFEVERO.COM • [email protected]

Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™ Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 55

ARTIST GALLERIES

Except where noted, hours are by appointment Ocean Drive Gallery Artists Guild Gallery
or chance. 3349 Ocean Drive, Suite 8, 2nd Floor. 772-579- 1974 14th Avenue. 772-299-1234
7667 Website: artistsguildgalleryofverobeach.com
BEACHSIDE GALLERIES Website: oceandrivegalleryverobeach.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through
Gallery Artists: Gail Fayerweather, Elise Geary, Friday, plus Saturday Oct. 3.
J.M. Stringer Gallery of Fine Art Margaret Goembel and Andrea Lazar. October Guest Artist: Dr. Johnson Hagood
2465 Ocean Drive. 772-231-3900
Website: jmstringergallery.com Palm House Gallery & Studio Gallery 14
Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through 3227 Ocean Drive (2nd floor). 772-231-6816 1911 14th Avenue. 772-562-5525
Saturday or by appointment Website: palmhousegallery.com Website: gallery14verobeach.com
Artfully Created Renewal Sale ends Oct. 31. Gallery Artists: Wendy Douglas, Dede Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday through
Gilbert, Rick Kelly, Madeline Long, Suzy Mel- Saturday.
Koman Fine Art Flametree Clay Art Gallery lott, Jack Staley, Barbara Tiffany and Emily October & November exhibit: Calming Influ-
2905 Cardinal Drive. Tremml. ences: works by Gallery 14 partners,
772-231-4500 or 772-473-1646 2041 14th Avenue. 772-202-2810 Lila Blakeslee, Barbara du Pont, Beth-Anne
Instagram: komanfineart Website: flametreegallery.com HISTORIC DOWNTOWN ARTS DISTRICT Fairchild, Mary Ann Hall, Barbara Landry,
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Hours: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. GALLERIES George Pillorgé, Deborah Morrell Polackwich
Saturday or by appointment Tuesday through Saturday. All are open during 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. First Friday and Dorothy Napp Schindel.
Collection of living artists, from realism to October Exhibit: Clay as my Canvas, by Gallery Strolls
abstraction. Judy Nye Main Street Vero Beach Studios & Gallery
Art Concept Alternative at Raw Space 2036 14th Avenue, Suite 103. 772- 643-6782
Laughing Dog Gallery 1795 Old Dixie Hwy. 772-410-9126 Website: mainstreetverobeach.org
2910 Cardinal Drive. 772-234-6711 Website: artconceptalternative.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through
Website: thelaughingdoggallery.com Hours: 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; Friday.
Contemporary American craftsmen, including 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday October Featured Artist: Christopher Swee-
the Treasure Coast’s largest collection of art October Guest Artists: Jorge Cavelier, Alba ney
glass. Olea, Amiiri Cantillo and Mariana Cordoba.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Vero Beach Art Club Annex
Saturday Artist Bungalow 1791 Old Dixie Highway (next to Raw Space),
1905 14th Avenue. 772-205-7631 772-217-3345
Meghan Candler Gallery Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday artistbungalow.com Website: verobeachartclub.org
6160 Hwy. A1A at the Village Shops. Curated paintings and sculpture by more than Boutique artisan gallery featuring original art, Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through
772-234-8811 40 contemporary artists. prints and textiles. Friday.
Website: meghancandlergallery.com Artist owners: Jeff and Patti Hall October exhibit: Art-Tini, small works of art.

56 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

CALENDAR

In light of possible COVID-19 cancelations, GFWC, Oct. 16 & 17, Oct. 23 & 24, and Oct. 28 17 International Coastal Cleanup, 9 a.m. Collins and Company (Fri.) and Uproot Hoote-
please check with organizations directly for up- to 31. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Face masks re- to Noon throughout Indian River nanny (Sat.), 5:30 to 9:15 p.m. Free but tickets
dates. quired (no Halloween costume masks). $10. County: Gifford Dock, Humiston and Jaycee required. 772-231-6990
Beach, Oslo Boat Ramp, Riverview Park, Round
ONGOING OCTOBER Island Beach & Lagoon, Royal Palm Pointe, 24 Fall Festival, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at La-
South Beach, St. Sebastian River, Wabasso Porte Farms, with pony rides, mechan-
Vero Beach Museum of Art: Virtual Museum 15 Senior Resource Association and Sil- Cemetery, Wabasso Causeway & Beach. Regis- ical bull, face painting, hay rides, pumpkin sale
Extras: Anke’s Art Moment, VBMA Flick Pick, ver Tones present the virtual concert, ter at KeepIndianRiverCountyBeautiful.org. and critters. $1 donation. LaPorteFarms.com
Museum Stories, Art Tutorials and Museum What the World Needs Now is Love, 7 p.m. on
Fun. Vbmuseum.org/extras their website, with Jacob Craig directing 60 cho- 17 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 24 Howl-O-Ween Mask-A-Rade Dog Cos-
ral members. seniorresourceassociation.org ‘Pink’ Car Parade, 9 a.m. at Cleveland tume Pawrade at Dogs for Life, with
First Friday Gallery Strolls in the Downtown Clinic Scully-Welsh Cancer Center, with survi- entertainment by Hobo Jim and K-9 Demo by
Vero Beach Arts District, 5 to 8 p.m. along 14th 16 Frank Wosar and the Space Coast vors, caregivers and supporters invited to par- IRC Sheriff’s office. Gates open at 1 p.m. and
Avenue and surrounding area, the first Friday of Symphony Jazz Orchestra present ticipate. It’s also Strides Your Way Walk Day, pawrade at 4 p.m. Free. 772-567-8969
each month. Masks required indoors. From the Flat to the Silver Screen, 7 p.m. drive- with individuals and teams walking at time/
in concert at Pathway Church parking lot, fea- place of their choosing to fundraise for Ameri- 24 Trunk or Treat, 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the
Virtual Art Classes offered by Vero Beach Art turing jazzed up television and movie scores can Cancer Society breast cancer research. Indian River IG Center hosted by IRC
Club instructors, 1 p.m. every Thursday. $20 from the 50s, 60s and 70s. $10 pp or $25 per makingstrideswalk.org/IndianRiverFL Parks and Recreation, with 6 p.m. Trunk or
members; $25 nonmembers. Register online at car of 3+ adults; under 18 free. 855-252-7276 Treating and 7:15 showing of SONIC The Hedge-
verobeachartclub.org or call 772-231-0303 17 Touch a Truck Family Festival, 10 a.m. hog. Free, but advance registration required for
16|17 Comedy Zone at Riverside to 2 p.m. at Indian River County Fair- movie. 772-226-1732
Best of the Best annual juried exhibition at Theatre, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. grounds, with cars, trucks and children’s activi-
A. E. Backus Museum and Gallery thru Nov. 13. with comedians Kent Raider and JojoCasillas. ties. $5 pp; children under 2 free. 772.220.1220 24 ARTober Artist Meet and Greet, 4 to 6
772-465-0630 $14 - $18. Live in the Loop concerts Jessie & p.m. at Environmental Learning Center,
the Thieves (Fri.) and Ryz-N-Soulz (Sat.), 5:30 to 23|24 Comedy Zone at River- featuring nature photographer Brian LaPersonerie
Terror on Main Street Haunted House, 1036 9:15 p.m. Free but tickets required. 772-231- side Theatre, 7 p.m. and 9 and pastel artist Lisa Rose, an outdoor cocktail
Main Street, Sebastian, hosted by Sebastian 6990 p.m. with comedians Al Romas and Catherine hour with complementary wine and beer, plein air
Maloney. $14 - $18. Live in the Loop concerts pastel activity and live music. $5 suggested dona-
Solutions from Games Pages ACROSS DOWN tion; masks required indoors. 772-589-5050 x 102
in October 8, 2020 Edition 1 THUS 1 TAILBACK Crossword Page 31 (CAROL-LINERS)
3 HOOP 2 UNSPOILT 25 Virtual Great Duck Derby, 3 p.m. on
9 REAMS 4 OPERAS Facebook Live to benefit Treasure Coast
10 INSINCERE 5 PREPLAN Community Health initiatives for low income
11 POSER 6 GAGS families, with 5,000 ‘adopted’ yellow duckies
12 BOOKSTALL 7 TSAR swimming their way to the shore, and prizes to
15 COLUMN 8 ONUS the first four across the finish gate. Adoption fee,
17 UNKNIT 13 INSISTED $5 per duck. TheGreatDuckDerby.com.
19 DECEPTION 14 STANDSIN
21 TORSO 16 MADONNA 30 Phantom of the Opera Silent Film and
23 NOMINATES 18 ACUMEN Organ Concert, 6:30 p.m. at Commu-
24 LEARN 20 PINK nity Church of Vero Beach, with Andrew Galus-
25 ACNE 21 TALE ka accompanying the 1925 Lon Chaney version
26 ODIN 22 REAL of the film. Free will offering; reservations and
masks required. 772-778-1070
Sudoku Page 30 Sudoku Page 31 Crossword Page 30

VERO BEACH 32963 BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Advertising Vero Beach Services | If you would like your business to appear in our directory, please call 772-633-0753

ACCREDITED PUBLIC INSURANCE
ADJUSTER OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY

Do you have an old or new insurance claim for property damage?
Denied Claims • Broken Pipes • Roofing • Low Settlement

Public insurance adjusters are licensed by the state to help
you receive just settlements on property damage claims.
There are no up-front costs or financial risks – just a fair
resolution to your claim, starting with a free consultation.
Testimonials from our clients can be found on our website.

We don’t get paid until you get paid and our work is free if
we don’t increase your insurance company’s settlement –

often doubling the original offer.
STEVEN L. PHILIPSON

License #E170409
772-696-5585 • www.apiafla.com

35 years General Contractor
15 years Public Adjuster

This directory gives small business people eager to provide services to the beachside community an opportunity to make themselves known to island readers at an affordable cost. This is the
only service directory mailed each week during season to all 11,000+ homes on the Vero Beach barrier island. If you are interested in a listing in the Vero Beach 32963 Business Directory,

please contact marketing representative Kathleen Macglennon at
[email protected] or call 772-633-0753.

BEAUTIFUL HOME IN ‘THE ESTUARY’
IS SPECIAL INSIDE AND OUT

320 Lakewood Way in The Estuary: 3-bedroom, 3-bath, 3,353-square-foot home offered for $1,045,000
by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices agents Anne Wallace and Dan Downey: 772-713-6314

58 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

REAL ESTATE

Beautiful home in ‘The Estuary’ is special inside and out

BY SAMANTHA ROHLFING BAITA
Staff Writer

The charming house at 320 Lake-
view Way, say owners Toby and Susan
Levy, “has been so welcoming to our
large, noisy family gatherings, with
plenty of room for everyone, plus
dogs ... and always bright and sunny.
Makes life so easy!”

This home’s cheerful, warm and
welcoming personality is apparent
from the very first glimpse: The ex-
terior walls are soft, sunshine yellow,
the shutters and trim crisp white.
From the broad, pavered drive, catch
a glimpse into the stone-tiled, hibis-
cus-swathed entrance courtyard,
and you can’t wait to explore further.

Susan Levy is especially fond of the
hibiscus: “I know, nothing special in
Florida, but to me, they’re so pretty
when they fill the courtyard with
their pink blossoms and sprinkle the
property line with splashes of pink. I
just love them!”

With lots of windows, wide arch- topped island contains a long lunch
ways, pastel walls and white mill- bar and additional cabinet storage.
work, the home’s interior is bright, The brushed stainless fridge, dish-
airy and open. You’ll also immedi- washer, microwave, gas cooktop and
ately notice the exquisite finishes oven complete the kitchen, and there
and consistent attention to even the is also that highly desirable kitchen
smallest detail. Berkshire Hathaway feature – a pantry.
HomeServices co-listing agent Anne
Wallace adds that the house possess- Off the kitchen is a formal dining
es “a great separation of space ... es- room and sitting room space, natu-
pecially important in today’s world.” rally illuminated with a trio of double
windows on one side and double,
From the lovely courtyard, double glass French doors and window on
glass French doors open into the liv- the other. Here the floors are a dark,
ing room, a spacious yet cozy place. polished wood.
Plenty of comfy seating can be con-
figured around the fireplace with its In the study, floor-to-(almost) ceil-
stone surround framed within white ing, wall-to-wall cabinetry hand-
millwork and mantlepiece. On either
Central Beach Area side of the room are wide white dis-
play shelving units with cabinets be-
Unique Opportunity low.

Beautiful 1/2 acre barrier island The Levys say the white-tiled
homesite on oak canopied street kitchen, with “its size, spatial flow,
close to the beach, shopping, and and great island, is perfect for our
restaurants. large family gatherings, our kids, our
grandchildren and our nieces and
For Sale or Will Build to Suit their kids.”
Call Steve Owen, Broker
(772) 473-0825 or (772) 234-6500 It is, indeed, a terrific, efficient
space, plenty large enough to include
a big, sunny breakfast bay, which
easily accommodates a full-size din-
ing table. The white wood cabinetry
includes a glass-front display unit
above a convenient, lighted desk,
perfect for list-making and event
planning. The extra-large, granite-

Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™ Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 59

REAL ESTATE

somely shows off the millwork that an inviting bay window with a lovely
is a hallmark of this home. The dark view of the swimming pool and the
wood floors are a beautiful contrast green of the adjacent preserve. Here
to the white cabinetry and plantation you can relax in a favorite chaise, put
shutters. A built-in desk makes this a your feet up and read, check those 10
very versatile room. million emails, sip a cool beverage-
of-choice or just close your eyes and
In the owner’s suite, the bedroom daydream.
is a sunny, spacious haven, with
whisper yellow walls, neutral carpet, The luxurious bathroom features
white millwork and a handsome dou- gold-and-sand-hued marble on floor,
ble tray ceiling with ceiling fan. There tub surround, vanity tops and show-
is a glass door to the pool deck and er. Pristine white tub, basins, cabine-

60 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

REAL ESTATE

try, molding and plantation shutters;
a stylish oval glass pendant light sus-
pended from the tray ceiling; and a
chic glass block “window” above the
tub complete the elegant ambiance.

The remaining two en suite bed-
rooms, one in pastel blue, the other in
pastel green, are cool and restful, both
with closets and marble showers.

Surrounded with beautiful tropi-
cal landscaping and mature palms of
varying heights, this home is as ap-
pealing outside as it is inside. And as
private. On the south side, the wide
covered patio offers ample room for
seating and dining, in or out of the
sun; and there is a summer kitchen.

The pool, too, is plenty big enough

for a gaggle of kids, and also offers a
spa for the slower-paced crowd.

With patio doors flung open, par-
ties and family gatherings will have
lots of elbow room to mix and mingle.

The Levys also give a shout-out to
The Estuary’s HOA president, “about
the nicest man you could meet. In-
credibly helpful, generous with his
time, and, miraculously, always at the
ready.”

Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™ Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 61

REAL ESTATE

The Estuary is only a few minutes’
drive along A1A away from Vero’s
charming beach village, with its
wealth of excellent shops and bou-
tiques, restaurants, pubs and resorts,
as well as Riverside Park, home to
Riverside Theatre (Equity); the Vero
Beach Museum of Art; boat launch-
ing; jogging/walking trails; a large
dog park; various community events;
and art and garden shows throughout
the year. 

VITAL STATISTICS
320 LAKEVIEW WAY

Neighborhood: The Estuary
Year built: 2006
Construction:

Concrete block/stucco
Lot size: .30 acre

Home size: 3,353 square feet
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3

Additional features: 2-bay
garage; 2 central heat/air zones;
crown molding; built-ins; wine
cooler; impact windows/doors;

plantation shutters; wood/
tile flooring; crown molding;
recessed lighting; ceiling fans;
laundry room; walk-in closet;
wet bar; window treatments
furnished; separate guest quar-
ters; irrigation sprinkler; fenced;
pool; built-in BBQ; gate staffed

Listing agency:
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Listing agents:
Dan Downey, 772-713-6314, and

Anne Wallace, 772-532-3226
Listing price: $1,045,000

62 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

REAL ESTATE

Long-delayed Victoria Village project now complete

BY SAMANTHA ROHLFING BAITA
Staff Writer

After sitting unfinished and over- studs,” and completely rebuilding it. pleted 1,400-square-foot, 3-bedroom, blocks from mainland restaurants
grown for years, a building site two All 29 units have new A/C systems, 3.5-bath, 2-story townhomes, Billero and shopping centers and about a
blocks west of the Indian River La- metal roofs; impact glass; split-plan says it likely will be around $1,800 a mile and a half from the beach and
goon, between 17th and 18th streets, bedrooms; wide, wheelchair accessi- month. Vero’s charming Village by the Sea.
now houses Victoria Village, an at- ble doorways; Shaker kitchen cabine- Art galleries, museums, theaters, ma-
tractive, upscale rental community try; a back porch; and a walk-in closet Renters may supply their own rina’s and parks are nearby.
offering 2- and 3-bedroom residences. in the primary bedroom. washer and dryer or, for an additional
$50 a month, the property owner will Although the community has no
The complex is “doing great,” ac- Upgrades include marble tile provide them. Each unit has its own clubhouse, the landscaping includes
cording to island broker and rental floors, granite countertops in kitchen single-bay garage and one assigned a small park area near 17th Street and
agent Gene Billero. All 21 of the com- and bathroom, and stainless kitchen parking space. The single entrance, green space between each of the 10
pleted 2-bedroom, 2-bath villas have appliances. The architecture is clean off 18th Street, is not currently gated, buildings, with room for gatherings,
been rented, and interior work is well and modern, the exteriors cream, but probably will be when the entire BBQs and outdoor activities. Billero
under way on the final eight units, for with dark blue shutters and doors. project is completed. notes the community’s friendly am-
which, Billero adds, “there is a wait- bience, and its eclectic mixture of
ing list.” The 1,100-square-foot, 2-bedroom, Billero applauded the developer’s residents: young and old, students,
2-bath, single-story villas rent for foresight in recognizing “there was professionals, retirees, from all walks
Begun by a Fort Lauderdale devel- $1,595 a month. While the rate hasn’t such a need” for an upscale, main- of life. Pets are welcome,as well.
oper a dozen years ago, the site saw been established for the not-yet-com- land rental community in the area,
only one of 10 originally planned where available rentals have been The remaining units are expected
3-unit buildings completed before limited primarily to near-by fore- to be available starting in mid-No-
the housing market went south. Con- closed homes. The project’s appeal vember, said Billero, with the en-
struction came to a halt, and the was further enhanced, he said, by its tire project “probably completed by
choice, 3.1-acre property and brightly highly desirable location only a few March.” 
painted, 2-story triplex facing 17th
Street languished, overgrown by
weeds and occasionally inhabited by
homeless individuals.

In 2018, Palm Beach developer Mi-
chael Buza, president of Wolfpack Fi-
nancial, a local LLC, purchased the
property for $735,000, and updated
the project’s plans, downsizing one
of the 3-unit buildings to a 2-unit
and changing some of the originally
planned 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath units to
more affordable 2-bedroom, 2-bath
units.

That fall, Buza received a green
light from the Vero Beach Planning
Department, and his builder, Michael
Schlitt Construction, quickly got the
project cranked back up. By mid-
2020, the long-delayed project was
finally on the rental market

Buza’s revised plans included gut-
ting the one original triplex “to the

Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™ Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 63

REAL ESTATE

Mortgage rates steady amid
economic, political turmoil

BY MICHELE LERNER factor in keeping downward pres-
sure on rates.”
The Washington Post
Mortgage rates typically fluctuate
Mortgage rates stayed steady de- based on changes in the bond mar-
spite a roller-coaster last week in the ket, but recently mortgage rates have
stock market, largely calmed by Fed- remained steadily low despite an in-
eral Reserve policies stabilizing the crease in Treasury yields, said Mat-
housing market the past few months. thew Speakman, an economist for
Zillow.
The average for a 30-year fixed-
rate mortgage reached 2.87 percent, “Typically, Treasury yields and
down from 2.88 percent, with an av- mortgage rates have a close relation-
erage 0.8 point, according to a Fred- ship, with a movement in the former
die Mac survey released last Thurs- usually dictating a change to the
day. (A point is a fee borrowers pay, latter,” Speakman said. “However,
in addition to the interest rate, that the pandemic has frayed this rela-
equals 1 percent of the loan.) The av- tionship and mortgage rates remain
erage rate is at a nearly historic low, much lower than you would expect
well below the 3.57 percent level a them to be, given the level of Trea-
year ago. sury yields.”

The 15-year fixed-rate average Speakman said he anticipates that
reached 2.37 percent, ticking up the upward movement of Treasury
from 2.36 percent, with an average yields eventually will increase mort-
0.7 point. The five-year adjustable- gage rates. There appears to be “a bit
rate average of 2.89 percent, with an of a buffer before they head in that
average 0.2 point, was down from the direction, and generally it means
2.90 percent of the previous week. that it will take a larger increase in
The 15-year rate was 3.05 percent Treasurys before we see mortgage
and the five-year was 3.35 percent a rates head higher,” he said.
year ago.
With so much political and eco-
“Mortgage rates have been holding nomic upheaval, what should bor-
steady for the past three months at rowers expect mortgage rates to do
a very low rate because the Federal during the next few months?
Reserve is determined to provide
maximum liquidity to consumers “Of course, there are a number of
and keep mortgage rates low,” said unpredictable variables that could
Lawrence Yun, chief economist of impact the way rates will look a few
the National Association of Real- months from now,” said Brad Sea-
tors. “The Federal Reserve continues mans, a trader in Cherry Creek Mort-
to keep the Federal Funds rate near gage Co.’s capital markets group in
zero and to buy mortgage-backed se- Denver. “The usual suspect of how
curities, which offsets all the politi- well we continue to recover economi-
cal and economic shocks we’ve seen cally from the impacts of the coronavi-
in recent months.” rus is certainly near the top of that list.

In addition to Fed policies, the “However, the timing of a second
stock market, the yield on 10-year round of stimulus funding could also
Treasury notes, the volume of mort- play a key role – especially if it is ap-
gage applications and uncertainty proved by Congress post-election,
about the election and the coronavi- incentivizing the Fed to continue
rus pandemic are driving mortgage buying mortgage bonds and creating
rates. The stock market last week fell further downward pressure on rates.”
and rose significantly over President
Donald Trump’s shifting positions For homeowners who are refinanc-
on whether he would sign a stimulus ing or buyers taking out a $400,000
plan before the Nov. 3 election. loan, the rate for a 30-year fixed-rate
loan this week of 2.87 percent saves
“The biggest impacts on mortgage approximately $150 per month com-
rates are unemployment, market un- pared to a loan at the average rate
certainty and political uncertainty,” last year at this time of 3.57 percent.
said William Tessar, president of
Civic Financial Services in Redondo “That $150 per month comes to
Beach, Calif. “With the ongoing pan- nearly $2,000 per year, like getting a
demic and a presidential election tax cut for people who are refinanc-
only four weeks away, there is plenty ing,” Yun said. “Buyers this year will
of concern about where the economy face some sticker shock if they want
is headed, which is a contributing to trade up to a bigger house, but
the low rates mitigate that price in-
crease.” 

64 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Sales on the Barrier Island: Oct. 2 to Oct. 8

The barrier island real estate market recorded 11 transactions during the first full week of October.

The top sale of the week was of a home in Bermuda Bay. The residence at 40 Southampton Terrace was
placed on the market May 27 for $1.185 million. The asking price more recently was $1.045 million. The
home sold on Oct. 2 for $970,000.

The seller in the transaction was represented by Elizabeth Sorensen of Dale Sorensen Real Estate. The
purchaser was represented by Rachel Hickman, also of Dale Sorensen Real Estate.

SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCES AND LOTS

SUBDIVISION ADDRESS LISTED ORIGINAL MOST RECENT SOLD SELLING
ASKING PRICE ASKING PRICE PRICE
$970,000
$1,185,000 $941,150
BERMUDA BAY 40 SOUTHAMPTON TER 5/27/2020 $990,000 $1,045,000 10/2/2020 $880,000
INDIAN TRAILS 721 CANOE TRL 6/12/2020 $895,000 $985,000 10/8/2020 $685,000
$715,000 $660,000
SUNSET DRIVE 926 SUNRISE TER 8/23/2020 $750,000 $895,000 10/6/2020 $575,000
$725,000
CACHE CAY 8 CACHE CAY DR 7/1/2020 $715,000 10/5/2020 $685,000
$629,000
CASTAWAY COVE 1213 SEA HUNT DR 3/1/2020 $680,000 10/5/2020 $567,000
$545,000
BETHEL ISLE 4602 SUNSET DR 10/3/2019 $609,000 10/5/2020

TOWNHOMES, VILLAS, CONDOS, MULTIFAMILY AND INVESTMENT

BAYTREE COURTYARD VILLAS 8475 OAK LEAF LN, #5 8/11/2020 $675,000 $675,000 10/8/2020
VILLAGE SPIRES DEVEL 3554 OCEAN DR, #602N 6/16/2020 $648,000 $648,000 10/6/2020
BAYTREE OCEANSIDE 8444 OCEANSIDE DR, #D12 7/22/2020 $589,000 $589,000 10/5/2020
SPINNAKER POINT COND 1855 BAY RD, #D301 1/29/2020 $575,000 $575,000 10/5/2020

Professional Cabinet
Design Available

CARPET ONE Creative Floors & Home has more for your
CREATIVE FLOORS entire home from the floor up! With Flooring,
Tile, Cabinets and even vacuum cleaners!
& HOME
772.569.0240

1137 Old Dixie Hwy • Vero Beach
creativefloorscarpet1verobeach.com

Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™ Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 65

REAL ESTATE

Here are some of the top recent barrier island sales.

Subdivision: Indian Trails, Address: 721 Canoe Trl Subdivision: Sunset Drive, Address: 926 Sunrise Ter

Listing Date: 6/12/2020 Listing Date: 8/23/2020
Original Price: $990,000 Original Price: $895,000
Recent Price: $985,000 Recent Price: $895,000
Sold: 10/8/2020 Sold: 10/6/2020
Selling Price: $941,150 Selling Price: $880,000
Listing Agent: Holly Gorman Listing Agent: Rita Curry

Selling Agent: ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Selling Agent: Dale Sorensen Real Estate Inc.

Holly Gorman Not Provided

ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Not Provided

Subdivision: Baytree Courtyard Villas, Address: 8475 Oak Leaf Ln, #5 Subdivision: Village Spires Devel, Address: 3554 Ocean Dr, #602N

Listing Date: 8/11/2020 Listing Date: 6/16/2020
Original Price: $675,000 Original Price: $648,000
Recent Price: $675,000 Recent Price: $648,000
Sold: 10/8/2020 Sold: 10/6/2020
Selling Price: $685,000 Selling Price: $629,000
Listing Agent: John Stringer Listing Agent: Beth Livers

Selling Agent: Alex MacWilliam, Inc. Selling Agent: Berkshire Hathaway Florida

Not Provided Fredi Ash

Not Provided Berkshire Hathaway Florida

SallyWoods
PROFESSIONALISM
I N T E G R I T Y ~ R E S U LT S

RIVER CLUB – GRAND HARBOR SANDPOINTE BLUE CYPRESS

Exceptional, newer 4BR/4.5BA custom smart home with lake East of A1A, beautiful 3BR/3BA home, screened/heated pool Rare opportunity! 3 lots in a row (17, 18, 19) sold as one

and golf course views, plunge pool, lanai, 3 car garage with 3 waterfalls creates a tranquil oasis, beach access parcel, canal front with sea wall, natural scenery behind

Represented the Buyer $949,000 $220,000

Last Asking Price $1,499,000

Y our satisfaction is my highest goal, real estate is a lasting relationship.

direct 772.492.5333 | cell 772.538.1861 | [email protected] | www.sallywoods.com

66 Vero Beach 32963 / October 15, 2020 Your Vero Beach Newsweekly ™

REAL ESTATE

Here are some of the top recent barrier island sales.

Subdivision: Bethel Isle, Address: 4602 Sunset Dr Subdivision: Castaway Cove, Address: 1213 Sea Hunt Dr

Listing Date: 10/3/2019 Listing Date: 3/1/2020
Original Price: $725,000 Original Price: $750,000
Recent Price: $609,000 Recent Price: $680,000
Sold: 10/5/2020 Sold: 10/5/2020
Selling Price: $575,000 Selling Price: $660,000
Listing Agent: Matilde Sorensen Listing Agent: Sam Robbins

Selling Agent: Dale Sorensen Real Estate Inc. Selling Agent: Dale Sorensen Real Estate Inc.

Lange Sykes Stacey Morabito &
Debbie Noonan
Alex MacWilliam, Inc.
Dale Sorensen Real Estate Inc.

Subdivision: Cache Cay, Address: 8 Cache Cay Dr Subdivision: Spinnaker Point Cond, Address: 1855 Bay Rd, #D301

Listing Date: 7/1/2020 Listing Date: 1/29/2020
Original Price: $715,000 Original Price: $575,000
Recent Price: $715,000 Recent Price: $575,000
Sold: 10/5/2020 Sold: 10/5/2020
Selling Price: $685,000 Selling Price: $545,000
Listing Agent: John Makris & Kevin Brady Listing Agent: Judy Hargarten

Selling Agent: Keller Williams Realty Selling Agent: The Moorings Realty Sales Co.

Joseph Schlitt Erika Ross

Coldwell Banker Paradise The Moorings Realty Sales Co.