Hometown Heroes of the Treasure Coast
Hope Woodhouse
Hope Woodhouse, past president of the John’s Island Community Service League, which both donated more than $1 million to 40 nonprofits in and, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, then raised an additional $250,000 for the United Way of Indian County’s COVID-19 Response Fund.
“I have witnessed firsthand how tirelessly Hope Woodhouse works to help our Vero Beach community and those in need,’’ wrote Betsy Prezioso, just one of many who nominated Woodhouse. “She is thoughtful, compassionate and determined to help others. She committed herself to learn of and address the specific areas in need in Vero Beach and then helped to raise significant funds to target and support those areas.’’
We received so many nominations for Hope Woodhouse as a Hometown Hero that we created a page to share what others have written about her. See what others have written about her
Charlie McCay
Today’s hometown hero is Charlie McCay, a cashier at Publix Sabal Palm in Fort Pierce. He was nominated by Tammy Todesco, who who says Charlie is the “calm in every storm’’ and especially has been so during the coronovirus pandemic. Adds Tammy: “Charlie still has his wits about him as well as his big smile and hello when walking into the store. He’s also been on a Facebook this week praising his teammates for the same. Charlie and Publix rock! Thank you all.’’
Jesse James
Jesse James, a phlebotomist who lives in Vero Beach. Jesse was nominated by Greg Atkinson. Says Greg of Jesse: “Jesse has been dedicating all of his personal time, talent, & materials into sewing masks for local medical professionals on the Treasure Coast. He is utilizing all resources to gather material and support through social media to make his goals a reality. Jesse always puts his heart and soul into the community. Jesse’s passion will help keep medical professionals safe and make the community stronger. Thanks Jesse for being selfless and putting your talents to make us all safe.’’
Michelle Backus and Jennifer Picardi of the Fort Pierce Woman’s Club
They were nominated by Jill M. Hanson, who writes: “Every Monday and Friday evenings the Fort Pierce Women's Club gives free food to needy families. These two ladies are working non-stop for this cause. They are doing this on top of working their regular jobs, home schooling and asking local business for donations. Jennifer is really committed to volunteering for several different nonprofits, especially if there are children involved. She co-chairs the Affiliate Committee of the Real Estate Association of Palm Beach, Greater Fort Lauderdale and St Lucie County with all their "Pay it Forward" programs that they have in place. Once a quarter a nonprofit is chosen and items are requested for donations. Jennifer has spear-headed this program and is impressive. It is no wonder she always has great turnouts for volunteers and donations and sponsorships as she puts 200 percent into all of the programs. She has a huge heart. I witnessed tears streaming down her face last week at the club after she spoke with a homeless family. It broke her heart to see this family in the situation. ‘’
Susanne and Jim LoPilato
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Heroes bring HOPE, something there is no shortage of at the Rio home of Susanne and Jim LoPilato. Like the rest of us, Susanne, owner of La Petite Fleur Couture Bridal Salon and Jim, an employee of Martin County's Parks and Recreation Department, are feeling the effects of the coronavirus restrictions. But instead of becoming fretful, the LoPilatos are shining their lights to keep hope alive. The couple, known locally for their delightful Christmas displays, has brightened up their neighborhood on North East Martin Avenue in Jensen Beach by decorating early. "As decorators, we can help stoke the fire of hope by putting our lights back up for our neighbors to enjoy," said Susanne. "Hope is the most powerful emotion known to the human condition. It's what gets us through tough times."
Carmen Luca
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Under normal circumstances, Vero Beach resident Carmen Luca is jumping for joy. With husband Petru, Luca owns Rush Jensen Beach, a wildly entertaining trampoline park that features a slam dunk court, a battle beam as well as other recreational attractions and a cafe’.
To curtail community spread of the coronavirus, Luca temporarily closed Rush's doors. But, this proprietor still has quite a bit of bounce in her step and is springing into action by giving back to the community.
"Now, more than ever, we appreciate all the people that are in the front line of this crisis," she said. Utilizing the cafe's kitchen, Luca is kneading dough and making pizza. "Last week, we delivered free pizza to 5 Urgent Care facilities, Cleveland Clinic's drive-through testing site, and a family in need. This week we are heading to other hospitals and the Sheriff's Department."
Mallory Cunningham
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
When it comes to being a Hometown Hero, age is no obstacle. Fifteen-year-old Mallory Cunningham is a shining example of what it means to be community-minded.
One of several founding members of the Treasure Coast Hope for the Homeless Foundation, Mallory continues to volunteer when the need arises, including during the COVID-19 crisis.
As the first-ever Miss St. Lucie County Outstanding Teen through the Miss America Organization, she is passionate about teens and youth who are homeless. But that doesn't limit her volunteerism.
Mallory is currently involved in efforts to feed the hungry with the Fort Pierce Woman's Club, the Boys & Girls Club of St. Lucie, and plans to volunteer with the Treasure Coast Food Bank, GraceWay Village, to lessen the load of older volunteers.
Rena Marconi, Wendy Rhyant, and Wilma Day
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
A shoestring crew, comprised of Rena Marconi, Wendy Rhyant, and Wilma Day, work cohesively, although not side by side, providing meals to the hungry during the COVID-19 pandemic.
GraceWay Village in Fort Pierce is doing its part to ensure that the hungry have food to eat. Typically, clients enjoy nutritious meals on Sunday evenings and lunches on Wednesday at Matthew's Cafe, GraceWay Village's food kitchen. Because of the prevalence of COVID-19, these are not typical times. Adapting to the increased need, small crews of GraceWay staff and volunteer crews are preparing and distributing meals every day (except Fridays and Mondays) from 5-6 pm in the GraceWay parking lot.
“We don't want people to have to worry about a food bill," said Operations Manager Rena Marconi. "A lot of community members have been laid off and have other expenses to worry about."
GraceWay is utilizing smaller teams to implement the feedings in order to minimize unnecessary exposure to the Coronavirus. Considering the limited size of the teams and the enormity of the undertaking, each team member is heroically putting in a full-swing effort.
Donna Qvarnstrom
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Donna Qvarnstrom, co-owner of Cobb's Landing Restaurant and Little Jim Bait & Tackle in Fort Pierce, not only serves up great chow, she takes great pride in helping the local community.
Each year, Qvarnstrom hosts a Celebrity Bartender event for the Family Meals nonprofit and throws the kick-off and award parties for the Lenny Schelin Memorial Fishing Tournament at Cobb's Landing. She also makes sure that members of the Fort Pierce Kiwanis Club are well-cared for and well-fed at their weekly morning meetings.
Since the temporary closure of Cobb's Landing and the decision to limit Little Jim Bait & Tackle sales to bait, beer, ice, and packaged goods, Qvarnstrom has continued to pay her nearly 85 employees. Despite the out-of-pocket expense, she is intent on ensuring their well-being.
"The entire town is feeling the crunch right now. I'm trying to do everything I can to take care of my employees," she said. "They are awesome!"
Besides paying salaries, Qvarnstrom recently gave employees the go-ahead to host a car wash at Cobb's Landing to help recoup lost tip money.
Michael Marsh, bottom left, and his group, Team Success Enterprises Inc.
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Stepping in by driving up, Michael Marsh, bottom left, and his group, Team Success Enterprises Inc. have delivered basic necessities and supplies such as nonperishable food items, produce, disinfectant, and hope to the youth living at Hibiscus Village in Vero Beach. "We plan to provide an abundance of Easter candy so the teens can enjoy the spring holiday," said Marsh, president of Team Success. "Our shelters are pivotal here in Indian River County. Whether we help out during holidays or during emergencies such as this, it's our calling to help the helpers and uplift the uplifters, as we like to say."
Thanks to Marsh and Team Success, the young residents of Hibiscus Children's Shelter have the necessary supplies to stay healthy and safe.
Matthew Baer
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
As a member of Elev8Hope's Kids Who Care, 13-year-old Matthew Baer leads the way. With his outgoing personality and enthusiastic smile, he motivates his peers and participates in many fundraising events.
Not only that, this Stuart Middle School pupil handle deposits for the student-led nonprofit, and has also raised more than $10,000 for classmates in need.
He assists with deliveries, networks with local businesses to obtain sponsorships and build shelving units at the Elev8Hope Community Center.
Baer has both written and received mini-grants, including one from Publix Supermarket, to help the nonprofit restock its shelves.
He is currently focused on creating over 300 Easter baskets to help provide a measure of joy for local youngsters during these trying times.
Michael Mesley
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Michael Mesley of Vero Beach is accustomed to working long shifts as a Radiology/CT Scan Technician for Cleveland Clinic Vero Radiology. As a veteran of the United States Navy, he is committed to doing all he can to support his community. Now, he once again finds himself on the front line searching for the enemy, in this case, COVID 19. “Despite the risk he and all of our healthcare heroes are facing, Michael’s focus is always on providing positive and thoughtful patient care,” said wife Stacey Watson-Mesley, “he leaves each day with more determination to be helpful to others.” Due to HIPAA regulations, he does not share much of his recent work experiences with anyone, and that can't be easy. But he is combat-ready and focused on his role in helping patients as our country works to defeat the voronavirus. "He has a strict and solid disinfectant routine each night, a positive attitude and a strong faith in God so each day he works hard to bring that kind energy to the patients that he meets.”
Jerry Koedyker
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Jerry Koedyker knows how to rally. Whether she is mobilizing new members for the Fort Pierce Woman's Club, her Mary Kay team of Determined Divas, or donations for charitable distribution, she is motivated and motivating.
As a volunteer extraordinaire, she follows the need, especially during the COVID 19 crisis. Gathering a trunkload of supplies, including pet food, treats, and gloves, she made a special delivery to the Humane Society of Fort Pierce. She delivered a care package to a local senior. The goodie-bag included large print puzzle books, a magnifying glass, and candies. But, she's far from done. Presently, Koedyker is collecting puzzles, crayons, coloring items, and more to donate to the Atria Senior Living Facility in Port St. Lucie.
"I hope that by watching me, others become inspired to give back, too," said Koedyker. "As a community, I think we can make kindness more contagious than Coronavirus!"
Other volunteer opportunities, such as assisting Sarah's Kitchen, the Treasure Coast Food Bank, and other nonprofits, also helps fuel her momentum.
Karen Cottin
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
As the campus mentor of the First Priority Club at Renaissance Charter School at Tradition, Karen Cottin relishes her role of training public school student leaders by equipping them with the Gospel and sharing the message of Christ.
Typically, anywhere between 40-60 students attend the weekly lunchtime meetings each Tuesday. Since “typical” is no longer the norm, Cottin must now mentor Club students via Zoom.
"We find ways in which we can serve our neighbors," she said. "Sometimes, that is loving on teachers, admin, or staff. Other times it may be families in need."
At this time of crisis, Cottin's Club is 'loving on' the frontline staff of Treasure Coast Hospice. Cards, posters, and goodie bags expressing thanks and encouragement were created at home, picked up porch side, and delivered to Hospice for distribution.
One thing's for sure in these uncertain times, there's a whole lot of loving going on.
Moose Brown
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Moose Brown is the CEO of Surfers for Autism, a nonprofit based out of Martin County that hosts seasonal surf festivals around the state. Thanks to the healing power of surf on children falling within the autism spectrum, the gatherings have grown exponentially over the years. With the Coronavirus forcing beach closures, several events have been canceled, and the remainder of the season is currently on hold.
Instead of making waves and feeling disheartened, Brown is "hanging loose" by helping others.
Placing orders for non-perishable food items through Cheney Brothers, Inc., an SFA sponsor, Brown helped stock the shelves at Elev8Hope. He also enlisted the assistance of George Hart of Mulligan's Restaurant who donated resources and food to the cause.
"We fed them the supplies, and they used their distribution network to assist many community members, including some SFA families," said Brown.
A sponsor of the Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast's Sensory Days, Brown engaged its staff to create activity bags for distribution through Elev8Hope. "This is a very confusing time for children," he said. "We hope to keep them busy and add some joy."
Just this weekend, he played chauffeur to Museum staff, his children, and the Easter Bunny, who, from the back of his festively decorated pickup truck, handed out candy, toys, and an abundance of joy to children in the low-income areas of Stuart and Jensen Beach.
Kim Tolbert
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Today’s Hometown Hero is Kim Tolbert of Port St. Lucie, the program manager for Salvation Army’s House shelter for homeless women and children. She was nominated by Kim Johnson of Stuart, who wrote:
“Kim Tolbert … has always done incredible work, counseling the women in the shelter and helping them obtain stable jobs and housing. Since the pandemic hit, she has had to be even more of a mother-figure and mentor, taking steps to protect both residents and staff while offering reassurance and a calm presence even when she doesn't feel all that secure herself. She established social distancing boundaries and adopted new cleaning guidelines in the small shelter and assisted each struggling family as the mothers lost hard-to-find jobs and the children began online instruction. Even though she can't currently hug them, she works hard to make sure each family feels loved and secure.
“As Lt. Sheena Marquis, Corps Officer for the Salvation Army, explains, "Kim has always been an incredibly passionate and invested program manager at Compassion House. Since the emergence of COVID-19, however, she has gone above and beyond to ensure that both the staff and residents feel empowered to continue moving forward despite the challenges we are all facing. Even with a family of her own, two school aged children adapting to virtual learning, Kim has committed to an earlier shift at the shelter allowing the monitors to be on duty during hours that won’t conflict with the safe senior shopping as a majority of the staff is of that age category. She has been a reassuring voice and a calming presence to the residents and children at an already vulnerable time in their lives. Kim demonstrates time and again that she has a heart that truly cares about the women, children, and staff under her care. We’re blessed to have her as our program manager at Compassion House and an invaluable member of our team at The Salvation Army.”
Congratulations, Kim Tolbert!
Stephen Lepore
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
At the age of 2, Stephen Lepore was diagnosed with Autism and remained non-verbal until he turned 5. Today, this part-time college student and Special Olympiad Gold medalist in Golf volunteers with Operation 300, the Ernie Els Center, the Honda Classic, Special Olympics, and many other local organizations. Not only that, he actively pursues his dream of one day working in the television and film industry.
He recently starred in two promo videos, a commercial and a short film, and earned the nickname "Mr. Hollywood!"
Last year, Lepore combined his passion for helping others and his dreams of success and founded a business called Mr. Hollywood Soaps. Since the onset of the Coronavirus, he's become a "SoapStar!" Teaming up with HopLife Brewing, he helped assemble goodie bags for first responders that included soaps in the shapes of hearts and police cars.
"Everyone needs a thank you," said Lepore.
He is currently in talks with Darin Homer, Special Olympics county director for Indian River and St. Lucie counties, to distribute some soaps to group homes and shelters. Lepore donates a portion of soaps that he sells to Special Olympics each month. "That is my favorite part- helping my friends."
Harnessing his star-power talents, Lepore can be seen starring in homemade videos singing, thanking healthcare workers and first responders, and most importantly, making people smile!
MaryAnn Ketcham
Today’s hometown hero is our very own MaryAnn Ketcham, who provides many of the profiles for our Hometown Hero feature. MaryAnn is a freelance photographer who shoots many of the parties that appear in our On the Scene Section in Indian River Magazine.
MaryAnn also works for many charities, providing them photography services. MaryAnn was coming on the peak part of her work season covering society events for various media and charities when the coronavirus pandemic closed the large public gatherings she covered.
Instead of despairing, MaryAnn went quickly to work, photographing the many of the various nonprofits she covered that were providing various services related to the pandemic, all at no cost to them. Many of those nonprofits had been hit equally as hard by the pandemic because they had to cancel the fund-raising events that helped them through the year. When MaryAnn took on the Hometown Heroes feature for us, she asked that anything she made go to one of her favorite charities that helps feed people.
Unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic has hit home for MaryAnn much more harshly than could be imagined. Her father, Bob Laughlin, 80, who was being cared for in an assisted-living facility in Darien, Conn., was diagnosed with coronavirus last week and died on Tuesday.
The pandemic will prevent her from traveling to his funeral, but she vows it won’t keep her from helping the nonprofits she advocates for. “I’m just going to dive back in,’’ she says. “I have to keep busy.’’
Debra Neufeld
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Debra Neufeld may reside on the northern end of Hutchinson Island, but she is unfazed by the long-distance drives she encounters when participating in volunteer opportunities. This retired educator works with organizations such as Take Stock in Children, Missionary Flights International, Sarah's Kitchen at the FBBC, and the Treasure Coast Food Bank.
"I was reared to believe that service is our highest calling," she said.
In fact, she joined the National Charity League when she was in the 9th grade and remains an active member today.
"My heart breaks for those in need. The little bit that I do sends goodwill locally and throughout the universe."
"It is even more important to give back to the community during times like these," she said, referring to the pandemic.
From Port St. Lucie to Sebastian, Neufeld can be found volunteering with the Treasure Coast Food Bank. Whether involved with packing and sorting, assisting at the food production site, or directing traffic at the many mobile food distributions, she welcomes those lengthy drives because "It is a vital need. So many people are food insecure, especially now."
Christine Rigg, Audra Macon and Dawn Furgason
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
As Majesty Sound cued-up and proceeded to blast Mariah Carey's Hero through the loud-speakers, a line-up of vehicles, included many members of the Treasure Coast Tundra Crew, began its procession around Cleveland Clinic Martin Memorial North. Blaring horns, flashing lights, homemade signs, and waving admirers greeted hospital workers who are compromising their safety, serving on the frontlines of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Through the coordinated efforts of Hometown Heroes Christine Rigg, owner of Elder Home Care Services, Audra Macon, Account Executive for Accentcare Home Health, and Dawn Furgason of Nurse on Call, an across-the-board display of recognition and gratitude continues for all Treasure Coast hospitals.
"We're all in this together," said Furgason.
"We appreciate ALL of the staff from doctors and nurses to maintenance and housekeeping," Rigg added.
The caravan of thanks heads north to Cleveland Clinic Indian River on Tues., April 21 at 7 pm and then back south to Cleveland Clinic Martin South on Wed., April 22 at 7 pm.
Macon added, "We honor all of our hometown healthcare heroes!"
And, we must not forget the brave home healthcare aides and nurses that enter homes to help the infected.
Join in the thanks, visit the Stuart Moms Facebook page for more information.
Roxy Brown
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Roxy Brown firmly believes that proper hygiene is a fundamental human right. As founder and CEO of CareBag Inc., she is committed to providing the means with which to provide this crucial element of basic dignity via the recently acquired mobile shower units.
Because of the unprecedented and catastrophic nature of COVID-19, suspending the operation of the units was the only option.
"CareBag, Inc. realized that during a crisis as unprecedented and catastrophic as the Coronavirus pandemic, we all must act with the utmost care to be part of the solution," said Brown. "We realized that continuing to run our mobile shower program could create a dangerous space for COVID-19 transmission."
In the interim, Roxy and her team remain busy. Recently, CareBag Inc. gave away 14,000 pounds of Romaine lettuce to local households, agencies, and organizations within two days.
"We will continue to do everything we can to meet the needs of our community without compromising anyone's health or safety."
CareBag Inc. is distributing diapers for infants and adults, toothpaste, toilet paper, and other essential supplies to housed and unhoused community members and local service agencies.
"This is not a handout but a means of supporting our neighbors in a time of crisis," Brown said. “We are looking for individuals to assist us in DIY masks so we can distribute to those in need and keep them safe.”
Scott Guntz
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
“Never Forgotten - Forever Revered” is the battle cry of the members of the Reverence Motorcycle Association. Scott Guntz, also known as 8Ball, founded the organization in 2015 and proudly serves as club president.
Guntz and his crew are readily on the scene, leading a Motorcycle Honor Guard, for returning Southeast Honor Flights, where they welcome home World War II, Korean and Vietnam Vveterans from their airplane journey to Washington, D.C. Throughout the year, they participate in many flag details as well as opening ceremonies for local ball games.
Voted Veteran of the Year by the Stuart Elks Lodge, Guntz keeps close tabs on his fellow members and local veteran needs. Since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, together with his team, he's been diligently delivering food, meals and other necessities where needed.
While the organization hosts Honor Missions in recognition of fallen heroes, Veteran's Day, Military Appreciation Day and more, they've recently taken to coordinating Honor Missions to celebrate healthcare staff at several local hospitals.
"We try to bestow the Honor of a Hero to healthcare staff," said Guntz. "They ARE Heroes for putting themselves in harm's way to better the lives of others.”
Scott Guntz is a hometown hero who provides respect and well-deserved recognition to other local heroes.
Trekina Smith
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
The Council on Aging of St. Lucie's Meals on Wheels volunteers are working the front lines with a common goal of keeping the most vulnerable members of our community safe at home.
During her 13-year tenure with the agency, Hometown Hero Trekina Smith has served as the nutrition program manager.
"It takes a lot of work to produce and deliver hundreds of meals each week to a primarily homebound population," said Yvette Cruz, "from client management and nutrition services to detailed coordination."
Behind the scenes, Smith can be found processing reams of paperwork processing new clients for the free meals, especially now with the COVID-19 crisis causing a rapid influx. She is then responsible for creating easy to follow coordinated travel routes for each delivery driver.
Once finished, Smith and her dedicated team of staff and volunteers load the delivery vans.
The meals are delivered to the front doors of the senior citizen clients. But due to the crisis, those making the deliveries must now step away after ringing the doorbell. Despite that, the seniors still get to see a friendly face, albeit from a safe social distancing measurement. And, they still have some time to communicate with the people that they know are genuinely concerned about their safety and well-being.
"Our seniors deserve to be taken care of," said Smith. "They have made a significant difference in our society."
So too has Trekina Smith by pulling it all together.
Emily Brennan
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Thirteen-hour days, long round trip commutes from Port St. Lucie to Vero Beach, hidden pathogens, deadly diseases, and yet Emily Brennan remains steadfast.
"I got this," she continually reassures her anxious father, John Brennan.
For the past five or so years, Emily has been employed in the nursing field while attending Kaiser University full time working towards her nursing degree. She has spent the last two years as a Registered Nurse at the Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital.
Despite the risks to her life, her commitment to caring for the sick never falters. She continually goes above and beyond what is expected.
"I'm sure you can imagine the fear a father has watching his daughter head off to the front lines to work with COVID 19 patients," said John. "Emily works on the telemetry floor and also in the Intensive Care Unit."
"At the beginning of the pandemic, when the CDC guidelines were not as stringent, and PPE (personal protective equipment) was in relatively short supply, I began to experience a sense of guilt for supporting her decision to become a nurse. But, through it all, her dedication continues to inspire me."
Billy Mullan
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
The Pizza Guys Pizzeria and Pub, a popular Vero Beach eatery, is just more than two years young. Billy Mullan, pictured above, his brother Shane and friend Anthony Marini own the establishment.
"One of the things that excited me the most about opening a restaurant was having the ability to employ people,’’ said Billy Mullan. “Many friends of mine also own restaurants, and so I know firsthand how employees soon become family."
Because of the coronavirus and the resulting restrictions placed on the industry, Mullan knew that many locals would become unemployed. "Giving them notice had to be very difficult. I wanted to help in any way possible."
Together with his partners, Mullan created the #barbuckchallenge. Each Wednesday, the Pizza Guys store gives a percentage of its sales to employees of other restaurants. Knowing this was just a starting point, Mullan created a Facebook video encouraging and challenging other restaurants to partake in the enterprise.
Some of the restaurants that readily accepted the challenge included Cafe' 66, Cap's Pizza, The Sebastian Sandwich Shack and McDonald's of Vero Beach.
"We were able to raise enough money to help two restaurants with 23 employees," said Mullan. "We gave each employee $100 plus a gift card for pizza at The Pizza Guys."
Vero Beach Hardware joined in by donating a patio set to raffle off. Proceeds of the raffle will benefit the #barbackchallenge.
Three additional restaurants with 31 employees will soon benefit from this fund-raising effort.
"We are all in this until every restaurant is back up and running." Mullan added, "The best part of this is the help we receive from our generous customers who drop money into the donation buckets. We couldn't do this without them.”
Neda Story
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Since 2014, Neda Story has served as a volunteer extraordinaire with the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast. Since April of 2015, this Palm City resident has donated well over 700 hours.
A dedicated dog walker at the shelter, even on holidays, Story works hand-in-hand with the animal trainer and behavior specialist, attending training sessions and working with dogs that require extra training.
She also leads small classes for new dog-walking volunteers.
Some dogs are a challenge to adopt out. They may need extra-socialization and TLC. Fostering those dogs in her home, Story helps them become more adoptable.
As a recent Valentine's Day treat, she set up a special date with Frankie, a shelter dog. After playtime at the beach, Frankie went home for a bath, followed by dinner at the Pelican Cafe'. The two strolled the boardwalk in Stuart and stopped into Terra Fermata to listen to music. As it was a late-night outing, Frankie spent the night nestled between 800 thread-count sheets at Story's home.
Story also helps promote shelter dogs by taking their photos, writing about them, and posting them on social media. She attends numerous events, touting dogs wearing "Adopt Me" vests, and has the proper training to interview potential adopters and complete the adoption process.
The COVID-19 crisis has not deterred Story from her mission. She continues to visit the shelter, walk, and play with the dogs at least three times each week.
"Neda is such a passionate and dedicated volunteer," said Volunteer Program Manager Sarah Fisher. "She has such a special connection with each of our dogs, and that radiates whenever she enters their kennel. Dogs and shelter staff are beyond lucky to have someone as wonderful as Neda Story on our team.”
Kallee Jackson
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
The adage, "a stitch in time saves nine," has taken on a more profound meaning during the coronavirus crisis.
When fashion designer Kallee Jackson, founder of Kallee Classy Fashions, encountered a significant interruption in apparel orders, she changed course and turned her talents to sewing masks.
To date, Jackson has donated more than 200 masks to local home nursing organizations, nonprofits, and hospitals in need of the much-coveted, protective items.
Although not donned on a strut down the red carpet, Jackson's masks certainly make a bold statement and may even save a few lives.
"Kallee recognizes the importance of keeping all staff safe," said Will Armstead, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of St. Lucie. "Her donated masks were not only thoughtful but forward thinking."
Rose Bell
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Rose Bell stands as the sentinel at the front door to Cleveland Clinic Martin North. Armed with a mask, gloves, eye protection, and a thermometer, she serves as one of several frontline defenders against the mighty army of COVID-19 germs attempting to infiltrate the building.
No staff member of any level nor visitor dare pass her by without stopping to be screened for signs of a fever. Keeping in mind safe social distancing practices, she aims and triggers her trusty thermometer at each awaiting foreheads. She turns away those exhibiting temperatures, a telltale symptom of the Coronavirus.
Although reassigned from her regular position as a water and group fitness instructor and shifted from the South to the North Hospital, Bell has embraced her new norm. Her body clock is slowly adjusting to her change in hours from mornings to late afternoon.
Although her interactions with people have altered significantly, she doesn't complain. She diligently protects her assigned point of entry.
"We are covering all bases, the front doors, the Emergency Room, the loading docks, and everywhere else people can enter," she said. "This is an excellent and necessary idea.”
Beth Turek
NOMINATED AND WRITTEN BY ALLYSON BOOTES
For years, Beth Turek has dedicated her life to helping homeless pets find their way home. Through fostering kittens and being a strong and enthusiastic advocate for H.A.L.O. No-Kill Rescue, Beth is the epitome of a Hometown Hero.
When H.A.L.O.’s Vero Beach Adoption Center was forced to close due to COVID-19, Beth threw all of her efforts into helping H.A.L.O. transition. She assisted staff in helping kittens find homes and of course, brought her own litter home to foster.
Always stalwart in her effort to find homes for the precious babies she fosters, Beth brings them to the Main Shelter in Sebastian to meet potential adopters unconcerned about her own health and safety. She also puts together “Welcome Home” kits for adopters including all the essentials a new pet parent needs so they do not have to go to the store.
When H.A.L.O. launched the “Art from the Heart” campaign, Beth once again stepped up to the plate to help and offered to paint pet portraits to raise much needed funds.
As a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty, Beth effortlessly balances her professional life and foster life and always goes the extra mile for the rescues. Always caring for others, Beth's kind and knowledgeable approach to everything she does is clearly evident. Whether Beth is connecting clients to homes or families to their new kittens, all you have to do is look at the smiles on the faces of those lives that Beth has touched and there won't be any doubt in your mind why she is a Hometown Hero.
Dr. Chris Festa
WRITTEN AND NOMINATED BY APRIL PORTER OF SEBASTIAN
“Dr. Chris Festa, owner of River’s Edge Direct Primary & Urgent Care in Sebastian, works tirelessly for the community and for the betterment of the health of residents. During the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Chris has provided IV immune boosts for all frontline medical and first responders for free. She provides at cost the same IV to people requesting it. She delivers telemedicine as a courtesy to members of the community who cannot afford health care during COVID-19. She does a daily talk on Facebook to the community keep people updated on COVID-19 as well as how to keep a positive attitude. Dr. Chris is an inspiration to all.”
Danielle Wynkoop
BY MARYANN KETCHAM
Managing a Facebook page can be daunting at times, especially an active one that has over 17,000 members who want the most up to date information. Without fanfare, Danielle Wynkoop administers the Vero Beach Neighborhood, Inc. page, a significant resource for Vero Beach residents and others, especially during times of difficulty such as hurricanes and the current Coronavirus crisis.
Thanks to Wynkoop's efforts, the page contains a wealth of information for people seeking staples such as toilet paper, sanitizing agents, masks, food, and more. Additionally, local restaurants may, at no charge during the crisis, post whether they remain open as well as provide pick-up and/or delivery information.
Promoting Vero's small businesses, connecting people with much-needed services such as check-ins with elderly residents, and more, the page adds a layer of comfort during a time of uncertainty.
Most importantly, Vero Beach Neighborhood, Inc.'s Facebook page helps keep up local morale as a forum where opinions can be voiced, viewed, complaints can be shared, and ideas about how to survive the quarantine while managing a smile can, hopefully, go viral!
Thanks to the countless number of hours spent presiding over posts, comments, and questions, Wynkoop and her team of moderators continue to keep Vero Beach connected.
Hometown Heroes of the Treasure Coast
Do you know somebody on the Treasure Coast who should be singled out for praise because of their actions during the coronavirus pandemic? Whether it’s a nurse at the local hospital, a volunteer at the local food bank or a grocery clerk going the extra mile, we’ll help you sing their praises in our new online feature Hometown Heroes of the Treasure Coast. Tell us who is your hero >>
