From ER nurse to community care leader Colby Bechtold’s mission to transform in-home health care
In the quiet intensity of a hospital emergency room, Colby Bechtold often wondered what happened to patients after they left.
Supporting parents with care, education and clarity
At Care Net Pregnancy Center of Indian River County, compassion is more than a philosophy — it is a daily practice rooted in community, care and unwavering support.
Navigating toward better mental health
In a growing landscape of mental health care, Lighthouse Health Group in Vero Beach is redefining what it means to treat the whole person. The practice offers a comprehensive, integrative approach that blends clinical expertise with innovative therapies and a strong emphasis on individualized care.
Where History Meets Celebration: Inside Fort Pierce’s 500 Orange Event Center
In downtown Fort Pierce, a historical landmark has found new purpose as one of the Treasure Coast’s most memorable event destinations. 500 Orange Event Center, owned by Stan and Jean Synkoski, blends timeless architecture with modern elegance, creating a setting that feels both rich in character and alive with possibility for life’s most meaningful moments.
A family legacy of protection at Florida Shutters
For more than 45 years, Florida Shutters Inc. has remained a cornerstone of hurricane protection in Vero Beach, combining time-tested craftsmanship with a forward-thinking approach to design and safety. Founded in 1979 by Tom Pease, the company continues to thrive as a second-generation, family-owned and operated business under the leadership of his son, Thomas L. Pease Jr., known as Tommy.
Rooted in community, blooming for generations
Tucked along Savannah Road in Fort Pierce, Heathcote Botanical Gardens stands as a testament to the enduring power of community vision and green space preservation. Established in 1986, this nonprofit garden has grown from a modest idea into a vibrant cultural and educational hub serving the Treasure Coast.
A Legacy of Smiles: Rowe Family Dentistry
In the heart of Fort Pierce, a dental practice with deep community roots continues to redefine what patient care looks like. At Rowe Family Dentistry, a legacy that began more than six decades ago continues to thrive — built on a foundation of trust, compassion and genuine connection with every patient who walks through the door.
The photo on the right of Seminole heroine Polly Parker used an artificial intelligence colorization process that was based on the 1909 portrait taken by photographer Harry Hill of the Florida Photographic Concern. Hill’s photo is the only known or circulated photo of Parker.
About our cover story
It’s remarkable how many people and moving parts come together to produce each issue of Indian River Magazine. The stories, photos and advertisements you see involve thousands of interactions to create the edition you hold in your hands.
Wedding Day | Billy & Molly Zoeller
HOW THEY MET: Molly and Billy met on the relationship-focused dating app Hinge. Marketed under the tagline “designed to be deleted,” Hinge encourages detailed profiles and is typically used by people seeking long-term relationships. In Molly and Billy’s case, it certainly worked.
Back county by Robert Adams
The wood stork is a striking, large wading bird native to the subtropical and tropical regions of the Americas.
