December’s Dyer Difference Award

Fertilizer restrictions to go into effect next month

A reminder from the Indian River Neighborhood Association to residents of Indian River County, City of Vero Beach, Sebastian and Orchid. We are coming into our rainy season when more nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous are likely to be washed from our lawns, driveways and roads into the storm water system and, ultimately, into our local waterways such as the Indian River Lagoon. The fertilizer ordinances passed by our communities goes into effect June 1st. It prohibits the use of lawn fertilizer between June 1st and September 30th. No fertilizer containing Phosphorous is to be used anytime. All fertilizers must contain at least 50% slow release Nitrogen. Finally, no fertilizer is to be applied within 10 feet of any ...

Oslo Middle student wins Americanism Essay contest

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — A sixth-grade student recently won 1st place in a state essay contest where youth wrote about their pride in America, authorities said. The achievement earned the student more than $1,700 in awards from local non-profit organizations. Students from fifth through the eighth grade were allowed to participate in the Elks Grand Lodge Americanism Essay Contest. Oslo Middle School student and winner Rachel Estillore received a $1,500 check from the Florida State Elk's Association and a $250 check from the Vero Beach Elks Lodge for her essay, officials said. “I really want everyone to understand the true struggles of our veterans and how proud I am that they fought for our freedom!” Estillore said. The Elks Lodge chose ...

Humane Society advises pet owners to prepare for cold

VERO BEACH -- With Treasure Coast temperatures set to dramatically drop this evening and remain chilly throughout the week, the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County is urging pet owners to protect their animals and offers the following tips: Bring pets indoors. If it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pets. Even dogs with heavy fur coats should stay inside. In the home, keep animals off cold tile flooring and give them blankets or pet beds to sleep on. Appropriate dress required. Small dogs and dogs with short coats can easily chill. Provide them with a turtleneck sweater when going outdoors and keep walks brief. Puppies, senior dogs, dogs who are ill as well ...