Martin Downs MARCH 2025

VIM Gala Raises Funds For Martin County’s Health

Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) Clinic hosted its annual VIM Gala at the Willoughby Golf Club on Saturday, January 25, bringing together over 150 supporters to raise $345,000 for the clinic’s mission. These funds help provide over $10 million in free health care services to eligible Martin County residents in need annually.

The gala’s theme, Old Havana Nights, set the stage for an evening of celebration and philanthropy. VIM President Frank Byers, Jr., shared the Starfish Story to emphasize the clinic’s impact: “A man on the beach throws a starfish back into the ocean, telling a bystander, ‘It made a difference to that one.’ At VIM, every life we touch makes a difference, and together, we help so many.” Travis, a patient at the clinic, highlighted how the clinic has impacted his life and the lives of many others in the community. His story reminds us that every contribution at VIM makes a real, personal impact.

Ninety-eight percent of all funds raised go directly to patient services. That’s possible because VIM Clinic is staffed primarily by volunteers and receives support from community partners such as Cleveland Clinic Martin

Health which donates nearly $4 million worth of lab tests and other services.

Executive Director Mary Fields shared, “Our guests truly embraced this year’s theme, filling the night with excitement and joy. Their support makes a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our community, and for that, we are deeply grateful.”

Thanks to the generous supporters of this event, VIM Clinic

Founding Friends Of Treasure Coast Hospice

Safari Nights Roars To Success

Annual Gala Raises $198K For Youth And Family Grief Support Programs

The Founding Friends of Treasure Coast Hospice (FFOTCH) welcomed guests to a magnificently decorated “jungle” at its Safari Nights fundraising gala, held on Jan. 11, at Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club in Palm City. The sold-out event raised $198,000 to support Treasure Coast Hospice’s youth and family grief support programs.

Surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and exotic animal décor, nearly 200 attendees enjoyed an evening of glamour and adventure. A fabulous dinner, entertainment and a spirited auction created an unforgettable night designed to raise awareness and funds to support comprehensive grief counseling programs for children and families in the community.

Golf For Heroes

Tournament Raises Over $11,000 For Marine’s Son

By Charles Dame, Special to Seabreeze Publications Sunshine, camaraderie, and a shared sense of purpose filled Hammock Creek Golf Club during the recent Golf for Heroes Tournament – an inspiring community event dedicated to honoring the life of Marine Gunnery Sgt. Terry J. Elliott. Over $11,000 was raised for Gunnery Sgt. Elliott’s son, Preston, who is now pursuing college in memory of his father’s selfless service.

“Treasure Coast Hospice is deeply grateful to the Founding Friends for their continued support of our youth and family grief support programs,” said Foundation Director Agnes Palmer, CFRE. “The success of Safari Nights is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the incredible volunteers who are dedicated to ensuring resources that provide comfort, hope and healing are available to those who are grieving in our community.”

Safari Nights on page 3

A Meaningful Tribute

The day began with a stirring presentation of the colors by the Marine Corps Color Guard. Their presence reminded everyone of the sacrifice made by service members – and the importance of uplifting the families they leave behind. Golfers then launched into a spirited scramble format, swapping stories, putts, and plenty of high-fives.

Community Spirit

The tournament’s success was a testament to the generosity of local businesses and supporters. Stuart Sailfish Marina, Zen Den, All Area Roofing, and TC Brewfest played a key role in sponsoring the event. Their contributions not only added fun and flavor to the day but also ensured that the memory of a fallen hero would be honored in a tangible way.

One Good Deed Can Change

Everything

With each swing, raffle ticket, and shared laugh, the community proved that coming together for a common cause Golf For Heroes on page 4

can continue to give the gift of health, ensuring that all eligible Martin County residents receive the highest quality of compassionate care.

About VIM Clinic

Since 1995

Volunteers in Medicine Clinic has been providing free health care to qualified, uninsured Martin

County residents. Volunteers in Medicine Clinic is located at 417 S.E. Balboa Avenue in Stuart. For more information, please call (772) 463-4128 or visit Volunteers in Medicine Clinic online at www.vimclinic.net.

Treasure Coast Hospice’s youth and family grief support programs help children and teens overcome the challenges of grief to find healing, assist families through grief counseling, and enable the Treasure Coast Hospice Crisis Response Team to support communities, businesses and schools when tragedies occur.

The FFOTCH have supported the Treasure Coast Hospice mission to provide access to compassionate, caring, expert and professional hospice and grief support services to patients and families at the end of life since 1982. The 200-plus members of the volunteer group have raised nearly $5,000,000 to support the organization.

For more information about Treasure Coast Hospice, the FFOTCH or its comprehensive grief counseling services, visit www.TreasureHealth.org.

Girl Scouts Of Southeast Florida Honors Four

Outstanding Female Leaders In Martin County

Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida hosted an inspiring afternoon of recognition and celebration during the prestigious Emerald Awards Martin County luncheon held recently at Sailfish Point Country Club in Stuart, raising more than $70,000 to support Girl Scout programs and leadership opportunities for girls.

More than 152 guests attended the Emerald Awards Martin County where awards are presented to outstanding women in Martin County who embody innovation, creativity and problem-solving excellence, making a meaningful impact in their fields and communities.

This year’s Emerald Awards Martin County honored the female changemakers and visionaries who are powerful role models for young women in the community. The 2025 honorees were Maureen Cotter, president of Impact100 Martin; Commissioner Stacey Hetherington, Martin County Board of County Commissioners; Tammy Stefanovic, business development and strategy for Cognegenics; and Beth Garcia Svopa, senior vice president of Brown and Brown Insurance.

Guests enjoyed a networking reception, silent auction, luncheon, and recognition ceremony.

The Emerald Awards Martin County was chaired by Jennifer Sardone Shiner and committee members included Beth Galt-Salsamendi, Mary Gavin, Rose Novotny, and Ofelia Utset.

“It is one of the highlights of the year to recognize the incredible women who have such a positive impact on our community,” said Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. “We appreciate them, and we appreciate the generosity of our Emerald Award sponsors.”

Honoring

Studies show today’s girls are not spending enough time outdoors. However, the proceeds from Emerald Awards Martin County and the community’s generous support, Camp Welaka provides girls with a transformative environment where they can build confidence, develop independence and forge lifelong friendships through traditional camp activities. Located on 640 beautiful acres within Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Tequesta, Fla., Camp Welaka offers girls the

can bring about significant change. The funds raised will help Preston continue his education, carrying forward the positive legacy of his father.

Organized by the nonprofit WeDoGood, the Golf for Heroes Tournament encapsulated their central motto: “One Good Deed Can Change Everything.” Judging by the smiles on the course and the outpouring of kindness, that sentiment rang especially true on this remarkable day.

Looking Forward

As the final putts dropped and the sun set on an unforgettable afternoon, participants and sponsors alike expressed gratitude for the chance to support a Gold Star family. Plans are already in motion for future tournaments and events, ensuring that the spirit of unity, gratitude, and service continues well beyond this single day on the green.

opportunity to explore nature through outdoor activities such as swimming, canoeing, archery and outdoor skills in a safe, girl-led setting where they can step out of their comfort zones and discover their true potential.

Ruby Sponsor of the 2025 Emerald Award Martin County was Publix Super Market Charities; Award

Sponsors were Amazon, HCA Florida Healthcare and Florida Power & Light; PNC Bank was the Valet Sponsor; LaCroix Water was the Beverage Sponsor; Table Sponsors were NAACP of Martin County Branch 5085B and Tammy Stefanovic; and JSS Marketing and Public Relations was a Friend of Girl Scouts Sponsor.

About Girl Scouts

We are the preeminent leadership development organization for girls who believe that every girl can be a go-getter, innovator, risk-taker, and leader with the power to change the world. More than any other organization in our community, Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida empowers girls ages 5 to 17 with vision and voice—girls who command their future, engage their communities and inspire others. We offer every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure and success. Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida serves more than 6,900 girls in Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee counties.

To explore opportunities to volunteer or partner with Girl Scouts, call (561) 427-0177 or visit www.gssef.org.

Photos by Steven Martine Photography

Tip of THe Tail

Heartworms

As many of you may or may not be aware, heartworm disease is fairly prevalent here in Florida. It is a potentially fatal disease that is spread to dogs and cats via mosquitoes. The good news? It is completely preventable with heartworm prevention, usually in the form of a monthly pill. But did you know that your pet is still at risk of contracting the disease in fall and winter months? There is sometimes a false perception that because we see less mosquitoes during that time, that the risk of your pet getting heartworms is not present. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. We see heartworms yearround, especially here in Florida. Additionally, mosquitoes

routinely travel inside our homes to escape the elements and in search of a blood meal. Therefore, even indoor animals or pets that only go outside to use the restroom are still at risk. And here’s another alarming fact: One heartworm positive dog in the neighborhood (this can be someone’s pet or a stray) will result in 74 percent of the mosquitoes having infected heartworm larvae. This means that your pet, if not on heartworm prevention, is at an even greater risk.

As previously mentioned, heartworm disease can be a fatal disease, in which adult worms measuring up to 14 inches long can lodge in the heart and major blood vessels. This can cause irreversible changes to the heart muscle, as well as damaging your pet’s lungs causing a cough or shortness of breath on walks, etc. In untreated cases, congestive heart failure can result in fluid accumulation in the pet’s abdomen. Heartworm disease can be treated, but it does carry an expense that far outweighs the cost of keeping your pet on prevention – not to mention the potentially long-term effects on your pet’s heart muscle. For an average 40-pound dog, it would cost as low as $12 per month to keep him or her protected, depending on the product chosen. Alternatively, if the same pet were to become infected with heartworms, the cost to eradicate them could be 10 times the yearly amount depending on the treatment.

Thankfully, there are many options for preventing heartworms in our small animal companions. The mainstay

is a monthly preventative pill, with many of the products including protection against fleas and intestinal parasites. These medications come with stickers in the packaging that you can place on your monthly calendar to remind you when it’s time to give the prevention. If purchased directly from your veterinarian, these products come with a guarantee from the manufacturers. Contact your veterinarian to determine which option might be best for you and your pet’s lifestyle. If your dog has been off prevention or missed doses, your veterinarian will likely want to perform a simple blood test to ensure he or she has not already contracted heartworms. It can take up to six months for heartworms to be detected via blood test. So, if you’ve recently adopted a dog with an unknown medication history, you’ll likely want to retest six months after the initial sampling.

Established in 1981, Palm City Animal Medical Center is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pets. With focuses on compassionate care in surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation, preventative medicine, extensive diagnostics, and emergency service, Palm City Animal Medical Center combines exceptional medical care with a caring philosophy for pets and their owners. For more information, call (772) 283-0920, visit www. palmcityanimalmedicalcenter.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PalmCityAnimalClinic.

Cleveland CliniC MarTin HealTH news

Colon Cancer Screenings –When To Start

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S.

While the number of overall colorectal cancer-related deaths has actually been dropping for several decades thanks to more people getting regular colon cancer screenings and advances in treatments, colorectal cancer for people under 50 has been increasing. Why? Researchers aren’t sure and are investigating.

So, when should you get a colonoscopy?

Since 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine, recommends that colorectal cancer screenings start at age 45, as compared to the prior recommendation of age 50.

A colonoscopy screening doesn’t only detect cancer but it can also help prevent cancer by finding polyps that can be removed before they have a chance to turn into cancer.

At What Age Should You Get Your First Colonoscopy?

What exactly is a colonoscopy?

During the procedure, healthcare providers use a flexible camera to look inside your colon and rectum.

And for most people, the colon cancer screening age starts at 45. The current recommendation is mainly for average-risk individuals, meaning those who don’t have a family history of colorectal cancer or symptoms. With colorectal cancer, there are a number of risk factors. Some can be reduced while others are beyond your control.

Risk factors that you can manage include:

• Being overweight

• Not exercising regularly

• Too much red or processed meats in your diet

• Not enough vitamin D in your diet

• Smoking

• Heavy alcohol use

You should watch out for rectal bleeding, changes in bowel movements (meaning going from having frequent ones to being constipated or having diarrhea), abdominal pain and weight loss. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately for a diagnosis.

What About People Who Are At Higher Risk Of Colon Cancer?

What makes you high risk? Risk factors that are beyond your control include:

• Being older

• A history of colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

• A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps

• Having a hereditary cancer syndrome like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

• Your race or ethnic background

• Being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes

If you have a strong family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or a hereditary cancer syndrome, you’d be considered higher risk and might need to be screened before the age of 45.

Overall, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 24 for men and 1 in 26 for women. The hope is that these newer guidelines will increase screenings and help identify health issues before they become severe, allowing for more effective treatment and better outcomes.

You may be able to schedule a colonoscopy at Cleveland Clinic in Stuart or Port St. Lucie without an office visit. Visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Colonoscopy to learn more.

Smart But Scattered Adolescent Workshop

By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist

A parent described her son to me, “Sam is struggling with school and his grades. This year in sixth grade he is struggling with the workload, executive functioning, and expectations of the grade. The demands are more. I constantly have to stay on top of him or he’d be failing.” This mom was describing her son’s executive functioning

Kids Corner

weaknesses. He was smart but scattered. Executive functioning skills are crucial for success in school, social settings, and everyday life.

This month I am offering an in-person one-day executive functioning course for students in grades six through nine. Your student can join us fun, interactive activities to learn executive functioning skills related to organization, planning, time management, memory, and attention. The group size is limited to 12 students. We use classroom instruction combined with games, scenarios, and videos to illustrate points and practice skills. Students receive written handouts to keep which summarize the new skills.

Developing executive functioning skills is an ongoing process in adolescence, and teens often need instruction to improve these areas. Weak executive functioning skills can impact academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being, so interventions like workshops and coaching can be helpful if your teen struggles in these areas.

Adolescents face academic pressures, social dynamics, and life changes. Teens with strong executive functioning skills can handle uncertainty and stressful situations with more resilience. By understanding and supporting the development of these skills, your student can improve their ability to navigate the complexities of adolescence and prepare for greater independence as they grow into adulthood. Join us so your student can learn these important skills for success.

Call (561) 625-4125 if you would like to sign up or if you need school neuropsychological testing for dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or to give you understanding and answers about your child. Learn more at www.JimForgan.com/ executive.

Club news

Explore “Martin Digital History” With The Martin County Genealogical Society

Martin County is filled with historical treasures –photographs, scrapbooks, records and letters – that chronicle the lives of our residents and help build an accurate picture of the history of our communities. At the Martin County Genealogical Society’s (MCGS) April meeting, professional archivist Georgen Charnes will discuss the mission of Martin Digital History. Orchestrated by the Martin County Library system, MDH encourages appreciation of Martin County’s unique history by collaborating with community members and local organizations to collect, present, and interpret relevant digital content.

Local historical organizations such as the Stuart Heritage Museum and the Black Heritage Initiative and many individuals have come together to help create a cooperative digital community archive open to all.

Georgen Charnes is the archivist and project director for Martin Digital History. She has master’s degrees in library science and communications and has been an archivist in a number of places, including New Orleans, Nantucket and Utah.

Free and open to the public, the meeting is at the Blake Library in Stuart from 1 to 3 p.m., Friday, April 18. The meeting begins with a social time followed by a brief business meeting. The presentation is at 2 p.m. To attend the meeting on Zoom, register at mcgsfl.org/events.

The Martin County Genealogical Society offers a variety of services in the Genealogy Room at the Blake Library in Stuart including an extensive research library, access to several genealogy websites and assistance from MCGS volunteers. For more information about membership, activities and services go to mcgsfl.org.

nonprofiT news

Impact100 Martin Prepares To Award $100,000 Grants To Local Nonprofits In April

Impact100 Martin, a dynamic group of generous women philanthropists, is preparing to award its $100,000 impact grants for 2025 to local nonprofits at a grants award celebration on April 9.

“We’re excited to be in our eighth season of awarding impact grants,” said Impact100 Martin President Maureen Cotter. “By the conclusion of the 2025 grant cycle, we will have invested more than $2.2 million and helped to change the quality of life and philanthropic landscape in Martin County.”

Impact100 is built on a simple structure strongly based on membership involvement. Each member donates $1,000 in one year. The funds are pooled to create grants in the impactful amount of $100,000 each. The number of grants awarded each year is dependent on membership numbers. Local nonprofits propose significant projects or programs, which are then vetted by the Grants Committee, and the members themselves determine which proposals best address identified needs within the community.

Impact grants are awarded within five categories: arts and culture, education, family, health and wellness, and environment, preservation and recreation.

For 2025, Impact100 Martin received 31 letters of intent and advanced nine of the projects from Martin County nonprofits to the semifinalist stage. They are Banner Lake Club, Project LIFT, Friends of the Everglades, Kiwanis Club of Stuart, Florida Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of Martin County, The Arts Council dba MartinArts, House of Hope, Safespace, and NAMI Treasure Coast.

At the Grants Award Celebration in April, the finalists from this group will present their project to the entire Impact100 Martin membership for a vote.

“As we grow to 500 members, our impact in the community continues to grow,” Cotter said. “Our members

care deeply about their community and the impact we have had over the past seven years. They are prepared to make Season 8 our most impactful ever!”

Tickets are still available to the Grants Award Celebration beginning at 4 p.m., on April 9 at Temple Beit HaYam in Stuart. The public is welcome to attend, although only members of Impact100 Martin are eligible to vote. Member tickets are $30; guests, $35. To register for the event, go to the Impact100 Martin website www.impact100martin.org.

To learn more about Impact100 Martin, membership opportunities, and the impact that $1.8 million in women’s philanthropy has already had on Martin County, go to www. impact100martin.org.

Impact100 Martin is a nonprofit organization with a mission of creating positive, lasting change in the community through collective giving. Founded in 2017, it is a chapter of the national Impact100 Movement founded by philanthropist Wendy Steele to transform communities through the power of women’s philanthropy. It is a member-driven organization that awards grants in $100,000 increments each year to local nonprofits in the areas of arts and culture; education; family; health and wellness; and environment, preservation and recreation. Detailed information about membership, grants, and community impact is available at the website www. impact100martin.org/ or on Facebook at www.facebook. com/Impact100MartinFL.

MARCH 2025

BUSINESS

President’s Message

March ushers in a season of transformation. With Daylight Savings on the horizon and spring fast approaching, change is in the air. The Palm City Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated this spirit of renewal at its 46th Annual Installation Gala, a heartfelt event that marked a changing of the guard. We welcomed new board members, bid a fond farewell to outgoing leaders, and honored chamber members who’ve left a lasting imprint on our business community.

The 2024 honorees embodied the strength and diversity of Palm City. The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast earned Non-Profit of the Year for its cultural impact, First Southern Bank took home Business of the Year for its steadfast presence, and Twinkles Gift Shop shone as Small Business of the Year. Cher Fisher was named Ambassador of the Year for her tireless dedication, while Tami Karol, owner of Tami Karol Insurance Agency, received the prestigious Michele Radcliffe Dutro Award. We also toasted the retirement of former executive director Missi Campbell and longtime members Evie and Steve Klaassan, whose legacies endure. Outgoing President David

Bradford, Jr., CFP ®, passed the gavel to me, your 2024 Board Member of the Year, with grace and goodwill.

As I step into the presidency, I’m eager to lead the Chamber into an exciting new era. New faces, businesses, venues, and events await us, promising opportunities to grow and connect. Change can be daunting, but it’s also invigorating—a chance to innovate and build on our strong foundation. I can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together this year! I encourage everyone to get involved with the Palm City Chamber of Commerce—your local community chamber—and make a positive impact!

2025 Palm City Chamber Of Commerce Board Of Directors

President Rebecca Beckett HJ Sims

President Elect Meghan Shirey Boys & Girls Club of Martin County

Vice President Mike Gonzalez Blue Stream Fiber

Treasurer Chris Coller Twinkles Gift Shop

Past President David Bradford Edward Jones

Executive Board Member Amanda Foster Zarro Mortgage

Director Pat Gleason State Insurance

Director Rob McLaughlin Access 365 Urgent Care

Director Carolyn Leibowitz Cruise Planners

Director Daniel Wade Century 21 Move with US

Director James FitzGerald Mattamy Homes

Director Lori McNicholas Keller Williams of the Treasure Coast

Director Ryan Bloss Ashley Capital

Director Melissa Zolla Firefly Group

Director Angela Kacprowicz Guaranteed Garage Doors and Repair

Ex-Officio Toby Overdorf State Representative

Ex-Officio Ed Ciampi Martin County Commissioner

Ex-Officio Marsha Powers Martin County School Board

January Networking Breakfast

Piper’s Landing Yacht & Country Club hosted a fabulous breakfast for the January Networking Breakfast. The event was packed with members and guests that were happy to gather back together for the new year.

The first sponsor to present was the law group from Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey, and Fonrath. They spoke about the many services that their firm offers to clients seeking legal guidance for business or personal use. The other sponsor for our breakfast was the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast. They gave a presentation about some of the exciting things that are planned for the future of their facility and the involvement that they have with the community of Martin County.

Dish With The Commish

House of Hope

February’s Dish with the Commish was an inspiring conversation with Martin County Commissioner Ed Ciampi and Rob Ranieri, the CEO of House of Hope. Their insights into the organization’s work shed light on the incredible difference one group can make in the lives of those facing challenges in our community.

House of Hope stands as a true lifeline for individuals and families in need, offering support through essential services such as food, clothing, and financial assistance. But what truly sets this organization apart is its dedication to providing life-changing programs focused on education, health, and job readiness. These services, offered at no cost to those who require them, are helping people break through barriers and build healthier, more stable futures.

The work being done by House of Hope is a testament to the difference we can make when we come together to help our neighbors. Whether it’s through a meal, a new set of clothes, or providing someone with the tools they need to succeed, the impact is immeasurable.

A heartfelt thank you to Rob Ranieri for sharing the incredible work House of Hope is doing right here in our community.

Central Eyes North Ribbon Cutting

Welcome Lynora’s

The South Florida history began in 1974 when Raffaele and Maria Abbenante immigrated from the tiny Italian island known as Ponza. Together, they began selling pizza by the slice in Lake Worth, Florida. Using her Mom’s traditional Italian recipes, Maria introduced flavors of Italy to South Florida.

Over the next 35 years, the Abbenante family served thousands of locals and visitors and quickly, Lynora’s became known as the Best Italian restaurant in South Florida. We are thrilled to have Lynora’s now call Palm City home and look forward to many years of success.

Community Champion

State Insurance is a full service, independent agency offering an extensive array of personal and commercial lines of insurance products, including home, auto, boat, flood, business, and life. We represent a carefully selected group of more than fifty highly rated and reputable insurance companies. Using the latest technology, our agents streamline the process for you to find the best combination of coverage and price.

Whether you need coverage in 60 days or 60 minutes, State Insurance has a solution. State Insurance is proud to be an engaged supporter of many nonprofit organizations, schools, and athletic leagues on the Treasure Coast. Check out their website at https://stateinsuranceagent.com or call Pat Gleason at (772) 426-9933.\

Education Foundation Of Martin County Plans Magical Celebration

The wizardry of Harry Potter will be on full display at this year’s Evening of Excellence – Bids for Kids event, which benefits Martin County students. Hosted by the Education Foundation of Martin County (EFMC) and presented by Morganti, this elegant gala fundraiser will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, at

eduCaTion

Harbour Ridge Country Club in Palm City and is expected to be a sellout.

Tickets for this Harry Potter-themed event are $250 per person (must be 21 and older to attend) and there are a limited number for sale. The event raises funds to assist the Education Foundation with enriching and enhancing the quality of education in Martin County’s public schools.

Stephen Sines, vice president of operations for Morganti, a longtime presenting sponsor, stated, “Morganti is proud to once again support the foundation’s mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County and

it is an honor to partner with the foundation in making a lasting impact on local education.”

An Evening of Excellence is known for having the most silent auction items of any nonprofit event on the Treasure Coast. Guests will have the opportunity to peruse and bid on more than 500 auction items that include gift baskets, vacation getaways, spa treatments, golf packages, jewelry, artwork, fishing charters, and restaurant certificates as they enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The Bids for Kids live auction will take place after guests feast on their choice of a surf and turf or vegetarian entrée, and then all will head to the dance floor. Raffle tickets for a wheelbarrow of liquor will also be on sale. All proceeds will go toward supporting educational enrichment programming for students.

Event sponsors are the Morganti Group; Keiser University; Hedrick Brothers Construction; Jeanine Webster and Mel Nobel; Gehring Group – A Risk Strategies Company; UDT; Proctor Construction; Harvard Jolly Architecture; AT&T; Laviano & Associates – Real Estate Professionals; Ocean Breeze Animal Hospital; Tami Karol Insurance; Florida Power & Light Company; Anthony D. George, Jr., P.A.; Florida Combined Life; Food Shop, Inc.; Taryn & Kevin Kryzda; Beauchamp, Sang, Gonzales & PhilPott, P.A.; PNC Bank; Fox McCluskey; and SwissMango.

For information, to buy tickets, or learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org.

The Education Foundation of Martin County is the Martin County School District’s strategic nonprofit partner with the mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County’s public schools. As an independent group, the foundation promotes this effort by raising and distributing private and corporate funds through several established programs, including classroom enrichment grants, literacy and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) programs, professional development for teachers, special initiatives, scholarships and programs to recognize outstanding teaching. For more information, visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org.