Emerson Center Florida Humanities Series

A taste of history: Zafè’m eatery brings joy, culture

To some customers, the platter of black rice, stewed turkey and vegetables sitting on the table may seem like only a meal, but to the family that prepared it, it’s a matter of faith and history. The same family bonds - like the seasonings that bind the flavors in the food - blend easily with the quiet atmosphere of Zafè'm Carribean Restaurant, a celebrated Haitian eatery located off 45th Street in Gifford.  The workers and owners of the family-owned diner offer up prayers before reverently cooking up dishes born out of the island nation’s fusion of African, Caribbean and French influences. But the biggest ingredient is one not found in the cupboard, but instead in the hearts of those behind ...

Fellsmere among towns impacted by Hurricane Irma to get infrastructure award

Fellsmere is among several Florida towns that will receive an infrastructure award that will go toward restoration and improvement projects following the damage left behind by the 2017 Hurricane Irma, state officials said Friday. The city of Fellsmere will receive $4,068,300 under the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity's Rebuild Florida Infrastructure Repair Program. The funds will aim to increase accessibility to the city's water plant. "Florida communities are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Irma, and helping them rebuild remains a top priority," Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a statement. "This funding will not only help to ensure Hurricane Irma-impacted communities are restored, but also help improve their resiliency against future events." Nearly $100 million has been awarded to ...

Gov. issues state of emergency; beaches to close ahead of Isaias

Friday evening update: A hurricane warning and a storm surge watch were issued for Indian River County Friday afternoon. County officials will order voluntary evacuations for residents Saturday in mobile homes, low lying areas and on the barrier island. County officials will open three shelters at 2 p.m. Saturday. The shelters should be considered a last resort option for evacuees. The shelters are: Special Needs Shelter – Treasure Coast Elementary – 8955 85th Street, Sebastian. Pet-Friendly Shelter – Liberty Magnet School – 6580 81st Street, Vero Beach General Population – Freshman Learning Center – 1507 19th Street, Vero Beach Earlier story: Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday issued a state of emergency for 18 counties, including Indian River, in Florida ahead of ...