We are confronted with all types of choices in our daily lives. That is simply a fact because we live in so many different arenas. We are spouses, parents, friends, workers, and citizens all requiring different and at times conflicting responsibilities. What we do not inhabit are separate worlds.

Everyone of us are Americans, Floridians, and most Martin County residents. While we can enjoy the breath and vast scope of our country, state, and county, what we can’t do is ignore our civic responsibilities to any part of the three. 2026 is shaping up to be a watershed year for us on every front.

Now that the holidays have finally been put to rest, we are looking forward to bringing you the best year yet for Friends & Neighbors. This is an election year, and we want to bring you all the information we can for you to make an informed decision when you go into the voter booth. The county seems to be sailing along pretty well with the current crop of commissioners. The Village of Indiantown is emerging as an economic powerhouse. The City of Stuart is a mess and on its way to insolvency.

When people tell you that elections don’t matter, they are wrong. They certainly do. When you get rid of the professionals in your employ and elect unknowing demigods it doesn’t take long for the chaos to follow.

For some time, we have wanted to have a knowledgeable food columnist. We have found him in Brent Hanlon. Brent has worked in the food industry for 25 years from some of the most exclusive clubs to white cloth classic restaurants. He has trained front and back of the house staff, built kitchens, and even had sommelier training.

Brent is someone who knows who Escoffier was and has his famous tome on his bookshelf. He also knows a great hamburger, taco, and pizza. His inaugural column appears today.

We haven’t heard much from the Martin County Taxpayers Association recently. I guess that is because they were busy auditing past and present commissioners spending on travel. Please read what they have uncovered and their recommendations that the BOCC should pass to control the excesses.

So, sit back. Pour another cup of coffee and settle in to a good read.

Have a great Sunday Morning!