Out2News Business
Miles Grant Country Club Host September Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce Monthly Breakfast
In Photo: Sponsors Seacoast National Bank
Article & Photos by: Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Hobe Sound – On Thursday, September 12, 2024 The Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce enjoyed their September breakfast! The September Breakfast was held at Miles Grant Golf & Country Club. The event was well attended with approximately 80 attendees. Breakfast was served by a very friendly staff of the country club. Miles Grant is located at: 5101 SE Miles Grant Road in Stuart. For more information contact them at:772.286.2220.
The sponsor and speakers for the breakfast was Lindsey Thomas and Clover Lawrence with Hobe Sound Seacoast Bank. Seacoast Bank provides a variety of banking and investment services to businesses and consumers. At Seacoast, they promise to get you the right products and the right team to serve you, making your day-to-day banking simple, resolve out-of-the-ordinary items responsively and invest in you and your community. At Seacoast Bank, they spend their time listening to their customers and servicing their needs. Hobe Sound Seacoast Bank is located at 11711 SE. Federal Highway in Hobe Sound. Contact at 772.546.5098.
The next speaker was Martin County Chief Deputy John Budensiek. Chief Budensiek spoke briefly but was honored to introduce the man of the hour Sheriff William Snyder. Sheriff Snyder spoke about his time in office and reminisced about his time in public safety and public service. After serving 52 years Sheriff Snyder will be retiring in January. At that time Chief Deputy Budensiek will be sworn in on January 7, 2025. Out2News wishing Sheriff Snyder much luck in his retirement. We look forward to working with Chief Deputy Budensiek in the future.
The Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce plays a significant role in the Martin County and northern Palm Beach County business community. The Chamber is a business organization financed entirely by membership investments. It provides opportunities for members to stay connected, network, advertise, receive continuing education, business support and always gives back to their community. They are located at: 8958 SE Bridge Rd, Hobe Sound. Contact them at: 772-546-4724
Out2News.com is your local Treasure Coast online newspaper where you are the reporter, photographer and YOU report the news! Do you have something to say, an event to a talk about? An event you would like us to have covered.
Photo by: Courtesy of Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Out2News.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)
"Your Treasure Coast Newspaper & Photo Journal"
In Photo: Speaker Ms. Clover Lawrence with Seacoast National Bank
In Photo: Martin County Chief Deputy John Budensiek
In Photo: Martin County Sheriff William Snyder
In Photo: Marshall Critchfield - Florida Power & Light and Lainey Muenich - CEO Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce
40th Anniversary Celebration Fundraising Banquet
Article by: Care Net’s Media Marketing Coordinator Angela Simmers
Media Contact information: Executive Director Bonnie Martinelli 772.569.7939
Indian River - October 29th will be an inspiring evening of entertainment, food, and fellowship as guests hear about a nonprofit organization bringing positive change among local women, families, and future generations. Care Net Pregnancy Center of Indian River County is hosting its 40th Anniversary Celebration Fundraising Banquet at the InterGenerational Center on Oslo Road. This evening will be unforgettable with live music by Rebecca St. James, a delicious dinner catered by TooJay’s and Adrienne, and a motivational presentation by Care Net Pregnancy Center.
Rebecca St. James is a Grammy-winning singer/songwriter, best-selling author, speaker, and actress. Rebecca has earned multiple Dove Awards and nine #1 Christian radio singles. She has performed with her brothers' band "For King & Country” and co-wrote selections on their album "Burn the Ships". Her emphasis on purity & abstinence and her experience in parenting will make this event a powerful evening related to the mission of Care Net.
Founded in 1984, Care Net Pregnancy Center has served women, men, and families in Indian River County with free services on pregnancy and parenting. Not only does Care Net offer pregnancy options information and limited OB ultrasounds, but Care Net also provides student services, parenting classes, breastfeeding classes, baby and toddler supplies, and access to community referrals (i.e. food, housing, and more). Care Net’s Student Services Director collaborates with First Priority clubs in all middle school and high schools here in Indian River County. Last year, Care Net served 474 women, men, and families over 4,700 times. Care Net has faithfully served Indian River County for 40 years (and did not close for one day during the COVID-19 pandemic)! Care Net is privately funded by the generous support of individuals, churches, businesses, and others. For more information about your local Care Net, please visit CareNetChampions.org
You can make a difference by attending Care Net's 40th Anniversary Celebration Fundraising Banquet on October 29th. General Admission seats are $100 and can be purchased online at CareNetChampions.org. All proceeds enable Care Net to empower local women, men, and families. For questions, contact Executive Director Bonnie Martinelli at 772.569.7939.
Special thanks to Top Sponsors: Busy Bee Lawn and Garden Center, DeCambra Wealth Management, Kastensmidt Family, Anne Martinelli, Mike & Val Prado, The Douglas Family, and Anonymous.
Media Contact information: Executive Director Bonnie Martinelli 772.569.7939
The Treasure Coast Child Summit Set to Educate and Empower Community Professionals
Port St. Lucie – 8/26/2024 – The 14th Annual Treasure Coast Child Summit will be held on September 25th and 26th at the Treasure Coast Safety Complex, welcoming professionals and community members dedicated to the wellbeing of children. The Summit runs from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM each day, focusing on current issues affecting children and effective strategies to better protect them.
The two-day conference features speakers from various disciplines, including healthcare, child welfare, law enforcement, and education. They will share their expertise on a range of topics that have been collaboratively developed with community stakeholders.
The summit invites a diverse audience, including healthcare professionals, prevention specialists, community coalitions, child welfare professionals, educators, law enforcement officials, social workers, parents, guardians, foster parents, and church leaders, particularly those serving as youth and child pastors.
“Crimes against kids continues to rise at an alarming rate. The Child Summit is absolutely the best place to learn how to better protect the children in our community.” said Debbie Butler, GFNF4kids Board President.
The Summit provides invaluable insights and networking opportunities, providing greater collaboration among those committed to child protection.
For more information and to register visit www.gfnf4kids.org/events. The event is free and sponsorships are still available.
Debbie Butler - President, Board Member
772.807.3868
Piper's Landing Yacht & Country Club Host August Palm City Chamber of Commerce Monthly Breakfast &
Big Announcement of the "NEW" Executive Director for the Chamber
In Photo: Mr. James FitzGerald - Mattamy Homes Speaker for Breakfast
Palm City - On Wednesday, August 28, 2024 the Palm City Chamber of Commerce held their monthly breakfast at Piper's Landing Yacht & Country Club in Palm City.
Piper's Landing Yacht & Country Club is a private, gated golf community of 302 homes on 600 acres with an 18 hole championship course for the members to play at their convenience. They are located at 6160 SW Thistle Terrace, Palm City. For more information contact them at: 772-283-7000 or email them info@piperslanding.com.
The first speaker for the breakfast was James FitzGerald with Mattamy Homes. Mr. FitzGerald spoke about the residential neighborhood in a Newfield master-planned community in Palm City. A Traditional Neighborhood Design, emphasizing neighborhoods and integrating a variety of home types, commercial, retail and recreational spaces. The welcome center and model homes are slated for completion this fall when sales are expected to begin, and the first homes will be available for move-in later this year.
Second speaker for the day was Tami Karol with Tami Karol Insurance. Tami Karol Insurance is an independent agency located in Stuart, Florida. They offer both personal and commercial insurance through a many carriers which fit most insurance needs. The agency was founded by Tami Karol in 2003. They are located at 1241 SE Indian Street
Suite 112 in Stuart. Call them at (772) 781-7720 for more information.
Members of the Palm City Chamber also had the opportunity to say who they were and what they did. The BIG announcement came after everyone had the chance to speak. Executive Director Missi Campbell announced here retirement, happening at the end of September and the "NEW" Executive Director who will be stepping into her shoes is Liz Ciampi, who has worked for the chamber for 3 years. Out2News wishes Liz all the best in here new position! Congratulations!!
The Palm City Chamber of Commerce's mission is to serve as the principal advocate of the community and its businesses, acting as the catalyst in promoting the economic development of the Palm City area, stimulating jobs and improving the quality of life.
For more information or to join the Palm City Chamber contact them at: 772.286.8121.They are located at 2701 SW Cornell Avenue in Palm City.
Out2News.com is your local Treasure Coast online newspaper where you are the reporter, photographer and YOU report the news! Do you have something to say, an event you would like us to cover? Call us at 772.834.1890 or email us at rshall@out2news.com. Out2News.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998) "Your Treasure Coast Newspaper & Photo Journal"
In Photo: Tami Karol - Tami Karol Insurance speaker for August Breakfast
In Photo: Liz Ciampi - Incoming Executive Director for Palm City Chamber and Missi Campbell - Executive Director Palm City Chamber of Commerce
In Photo: Chamber Ambassadors - Celeste McKeefery and Christine MacIntosh
In Photo: Palm City Schools Principals & teachers
Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing Wings Three Stevie Awards in the 2024 International Business Awards
Stuart – The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing has once again been recognized on the global stage, winning three prestigious Stevie® Awards in the 21st Annual International Business Awards®. The honors highlight the continued success and impact of the Tourism Office’s innovative ecotourism efforts.
The team earned the following accolades:
Gold Stevie® Award in the Travel & Tourism Video category for the Explore Natural Martin Ecotourism promotional video. This video effectively captured the essence of Martin County's natural beauty and amazing eco-attractions, while highlighting the program and showcasing the destination's unique ecotourism offerings to a global audience.
Bronze Stevie® Award in the Communications or PR Campaign of the Year – Travel & Tourism category for Championing Ecotourism Through Explore Natural Martin. This strategic communications campaign successfully promoted the ecotourism program by garnering hundreds of millions of earned impressions in top tier outlets, including Travel + Leisure, MSN, Outside Magazine, The Globe and Mail, Wanderlust Magazine, TravelPulse, and more.
Bronze Stevie® Award in the Sustainability Initiative of the Year – in Canada and the U.S.A. category for the Explore Natural Martin Ecotourism Program. This ongoing program, in partnership with Leave No Trace, has fostered environmental stewardship and responsible tourism through a series of free guided eco-tours and educational events.
"We are thrilled to receive these respected awards, which underscore our commitment to promoting and preserving the natural wonders of Martin County," said Nerissa Okiye, Tourism Director of Martin County. "These recognitions are a testament to the hard work of our team and all of our partners who are dedicated to protecting our paradise and making Martin County a top destination for ecotourism."
The International Business Awards® are the world’s premier business awards program. All individuals and organizations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – are eligible to submit nominations. The 2024 IBAs received entries from organizations in 62 nations and territories.
Details about The International Business Awards® and the full list of Stevie® Award winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/IBA.
Miles Grant Country Club Host August Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce Monthly Breakfast
In Photo -Jennifer Russell - School Board Chair District 3 - Hobe Sound, South County, Indiantown and Martin County Superintendent Michael Maine
Article & Photos by: Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Hobe Sound – On Thursday, August 8, 2024 The Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce enjoyed their August breakfast! The August Breakfast was held at Miles Grant Golf & Country Club. The event was well attended with approximately 80 attendees. Breakfast was served by a very friendly staff of the country club. Miles Grant is located at: 5101 SE Miles Grant Road in Stuart. For more information contact them at:772.286.2220.
Hobe Sound Community Chest was the sponsor for the breakfast with Scott R. Berry, Executive Director as one of the speakers for the breakfast. He spoke about what the Community Chest does for the people in community. Several members and board members were present today and also spoke about why they were involved with the organization. There are many reason to help with the organization. A healthy community mindful of its members in need is just one reason to get involved. Private charity makes a big difference. For more information call them at: 772.545.9072.
The second speaker for the breakfast was Michael Maine, Martin County Superintendent of Schools. This is Mr. Maine's second year at superintendent for the district. Mr. Maine spoke about the new school schedules rolling out this school year. Just a 10 minute update for the elementary, middle and high schools in the area. He also spoke about the budget which will give the teachers in Martin County a raise in salary. He also spoke about the distractions in the classrooms with the use of cell phones, which this year will be restricted during the school day. The subject of vaping also was brought up and discussed by Mr. Maine. Absolutely not vaping during school hours. Overall the superintendent is expecting a wonderful start for the beginning of the school and is looking forward to having all students back for the upcoming year.
The Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce plays a significant role in the Martin County and northern Palm Beach County business community. The Chamber is a business organization financed entirely by membership investments. It provides opportunities for members to stay connected, network, advertise, receive continuing education, business support and always gives back to their community. They are located at: 8958 SE Bridge Rd, Hobe Sound. Contact them at: 772-546-4724
Out2News.com is your local Treasure Coast online newspaper where you are the reporter, photographer and YOU report the news! Do you have something to say, an event to a talk about? An event you would like us to have covered.
Photo by: Courtesy of Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Out2News.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)
"Your Treasure Coast Newspaper & Photo Journal"
In Photo: Scott R. Berry, Executive Director Hobe Sound Community Chest
In Photo: Lainey Muenich -CEO Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce
In Photo: John Peterson - Chamber Treasurer - Edward Jones
Farmers Remain Careful Stewards of Our Natural Resources
Stata data details good news for air quality in the Glades during sugar harvest season
Stata data details good news for air quality in the Glades during sugar harvest season
Data from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Health shows air quality in the Glades was in the “good” range — the highest standard under Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards — for 200 out of 209 test days during the 2023-24 harvest period, or 95.7% of the time.
Measurements of PM 2.5 levels — fine particles under 2.5 micrograms that can decrease air quality — also show that the Glades average of 6.8 PM2.5 per cubic meter sat below the state average of 7.4. Farmers also turned to private monitors in the region to reinforce findings at the state level.
The average air quality in the Glades also sits well below the EPA’s new, tighter definition of “good” air quality, which dropped from a maximum of 12 PM2.5 per cubic meter to 9. That change took effect in May.
“Nearly all of U.S. Sugar’s farmers and employees are proud to call the Glades communities home, so we are thankful to also have some of the best air quality in the entire state of Florida,” said Community Relations Director Brannan Thomas.
“Farmers remain careful stewards of our natural resources, and we want the public to know that the latest period of data shows that concerns that farmers are adversely affecting our local air quality are completely unfounded.”
Subaru Share the Love Comes Wrapped in Love
Photos by: Ilena Luts
Approximately every three minutes, a person in the U.S. is diagnosed with a blood cancer like leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. The recovery can be long and often leaves patients feeling weak, cold, and isolated. That’s why Dyer Subaru in Vero Beach partners with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) and local cancer treatment centers to provide gifts of warm blankets and encouraging messages of hope for patients undergoing treatment. Dyer Subaru has joined with other Subaru dealerships throughout the country to help support nearly 350,000 cancer patients with blankets and encouraging messages of hope written by Dyer Subaru customers and staff members. It’s all part of the Subaru Love Promise, which believes in being a positive force in the communities, not just with donations, but with actions that set an example for others to follow.
The Subaru Love Promise has five core pillars — Environment, Health, Education, Pets, and Community — and the annual Subaru Share the Love® Event, aims to create change in the areas Subaru and its retailers care about the most. Subaru Share the Love has donated more than $288 million and supported over 2,300 hometown charities. The program has also helped protect, rescue, and care for more than 118,000 animals, and has donated and delivered more than 4.6 million meals to seniors, too.
For patients, what could be better than receiving that blanket, along with a few words of love and support from a kind stranger who wants to share encouragement and help you stay strong even during the long hours of treatment? Well, as it turns out, there’s even more love to go around. Patients also receive a small care package with body lotion, a soothing eye mask, some puzzles and games to help pass the treatment time, too. And while a blanket may seem to be a small thing, there isn’t one of us who doesn’t understand and appreciate the comfort of something as small as a warm blanket, a kind word, and the feeling of being seen and valued during the challenging moments of our lives.
Dyer Subaru is active in the community in so many ways, so it is only natural for them to participate in Subaru’s Share the Love Program by diving in and helping to continue to make Indian River and St. Lucie Counties an even better place to live and work. How wonderful that just by having your car serviced or choosing to purchase your next vehicle at Dyer Subaru, you’re also helping to do the same. And isn’t that what community is really all about? If you’d like to learn more about Subaru’s Share the Love Promise, stop by Dyer Subaru today.
Palm City Chamber of Commerce Hosts July Business & Breakfast
In Photo: Executive Director Darlene VanRiper, Martin County Taxpayers Association
Article & Photos by: Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Palm City - On Wednesday, July 31, 2024 the Palm City Chamber of Commerce enjoyed a Business & Breakfast at the Chamber office in Palm City. The speaker for the morning breakfast was Darlene VanRiper, Executive Director with Martin County Taxpayers Association. The subject for the breakfast was "Debunking the Myth of Growth in Martin County." Ms VanRiper spoke about the growth throughout the communities.
Martin County Taxpayers Association is a taxpayer watchdog and non-profit organization in Martin County. They are supported by local volunteers who review, monitor and report on tax and financials that impact taxpayers in Martin County. They write a newsletter to inform the community of local things going on. For more information contact them at: 772.285.7447.
The mission of the Palm City Chamber of Commerce is to serve as the principal advocate of the community and its businesses, acting as the catalyst in promoting the economic development of the Palm City area, stimulating jobs and improving the quality of life. The Palm City Chamber of Commerce is located at 2701 SW. Cornell Avenue in Palm City. 772.286.8121.
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In Photo: Christina Macintosh. Mike Gonzalez and Liz Ciampi
Humane Society of the Treasure Coast Thrift Store Hosts Stuart Martin County July Breakfast
In Photo: Chamber Chairwoman/Trustee Lisa Grassam-Smith - Grassam Spine & Wellness, Sarah Fisher, Kelly Ellis, Amber Mounger, Ashton Standish, Alyssa Bean, Courtney Zanetti - Humane Society of the Treasure Coast
Photos Courtesy of Sue Hedgepath - Stuart Martin County Chamber of Commerce
Stuart - On July 23, 2024 the Stuart Martin County had another breakfast for their members at the new thrift store in Wedgewood Commons in Stuart. The Human Society of the Treasure Coast was the sponsor for the breakfast. The thrift stores have provided a substantial portion of revenue and support for the shelter's lifesaving and life-enhancing programs and services. At the thrift store you will everything from trendy, designer clothing to mid-century furniture, linens, houseware, art, and jewelry.
Did you know you just might find your new best friend? In the past year, almost 100 kitties found their forever homes by being adopted through their thrift stores! You can also donate furniture? For pickup they ask you schedule 1-2 weeks in advance. Call them at 772-286-6909.
The Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business in the community. We shall strive to inform and unite the business community and represent and promote business interests. The Chamber shall promote a dynamic business environment, an expanding economic base, quality neighborhoods and schools, healthy ecosystems and responsive, efficient government. The Chamber shall act as the steward to balance economic and environmental concerns in planning for the county's future. For more information call them at:772.287.1088
Out2News.com is your local Treasure Coast online newspaper where you are the reporter, photographer and YOU report the news! Do you have something to say, an event to a talk about? An event you would like us to have covered.
Photo by: Courtesy of Robin Hall - Out2News.com
Out2News.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)
"Your Treasure Coast Newspaper & Photo Journal"
In Photo: Steve Klaassen - Colorado Pawn & Jewelry, Ron Bowan, Chamber Trustee/Director Chuck Geary - Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC & Trustee Gary Owens - Owen Insurance Group
In Photo: Amber Mounger - Humane Society of the Treasure Coast and friend
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What To Do When Your Employee Sues You
Dealing with an employee lawsuit can be challenging and stressful situation for any employer. It’s essential to handle such situations carefully and in compliance with the law. Here are some key steps to sonsider if you find yourself facing an employee lawsuit.
Consult with an employment attorney: As soon as you become aware that an employee is suing you or your company, seeking legal advice from an experienced employment attorney is crucial. An attorney specializing in employment law can provide valuable guidance, assess the merits of the claim, and help you navigate the legal process.
Review and preserve relevant documents: Collect and review all relevant documents related to the employee’s employment history, including contracts, performance evaluations, disciplinary records, and any other relevant communications. Preserve these documents to ensure they are readily available for your attorney and any legal proceedings.
Notify your insurance carrier: If you have employment practices liability insurance (EPLI), it’s essential to notify your insurance carrier promptly. EPLI can provide coverage for legal expenses and potential damages associated with employee claims. Informing your insurance carrier ensures that you comply with any requirements and allows them to guide you through the claims process.
Maintain open communication with your employee: It is generally advisable to maintain open lines of communication with the employee who filed the lawsuit. However, consult with your attorney to determine the appropriate level and manner of communication to avoid any potential legal pitfalls. Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt or liability.
Conduct an internal investigation: In some cases, conducting an internal investigation may be necessary to gather facts and assess the validity of the employee’s claims. This investigation should be handled carefully and impartially. Consider involving a neutral third party, such as an HR consultant or investigator, to ensure objectivity and fairness.
Develop a legal strategy: Work closely with your employment attorney to develop a sound legal strategy based on the specific circumstances of the case. Your attorney will guide you through the legal process, advise you on potential defenses, and help you determine the most appropriate course of action, such as settlement negotiations or litigation.
Document all interactions and decisions: Throughout the lawsuit process, it’s crucial to keep detailed records of all interactions, decisions, and steps taken. This documentation can serve as evidence and support your position if the case progresses to court. It can also help demonstrate that you have followed proper procedures and acted in good faith.
Consider settlement options: Settlement negotiations can be a viable option to resolve the lawsuit without going through protracted litigation. Your attorney can help assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case and negotiate a fair settlement that protects your interests. Weigh the potential costs, time, and reputational impact of a trial against the benefits of reaching a settlement.
Prepare for litigation, if necessary: If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, be prepared for the possibility of litigation. Your attorney will guide you through the litigation process, including gathering evidence, preparing witnesses, and presenting your case in court. Be diligent in complying with all court deadlines and requirements.
Focus on preventive measures: While dealing with an employee lawsuit, it’s crucial to evaluate your internal policies, procedures, and employee management practices. Identify any areas of weakness or potential liability and take proactive steps to prevent future claims. Regularly review and update your employee handbook, provide training on employment laws, and maintain open lines of communication with your employees.
Remember, each employee lawsuit is unique, and the steps outlined here are general guidelines. Consulting with an experienced employment attorney who can provide tailored advice based on your specific circumstances is essential. By taking prompt and appropriate action, you can navigate the legal process more effectively and protect your rights and interests as an employer.
As always, if you have any questions about buying or selling a business, or business law generally, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
Click photo above for St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce Business Directory