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Lynne Barletta Awarded 2024 Community Advocate of the Year by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody
Stuart – Lynne Barletta, founder of the Florida Faith Alliance and a relentless advocate against human trafficking, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Community Advocate of the Year Award by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody through the annual Florida Human Trafficking Summit under the Victims Services Recognition and Awards program. This honor, presented at the annual Florida Human Trafficking Summit, acknowledges Barletta’s exceptional dedication to raising awareness, empowering survivors, and educating the community to protect Florida’s most vulnerable citizens.
Attorney General Ashley Moody expressed her admiration, saying, “Each year, we recognize outstanding Floridians for their extraordinary work in the fight to end human trafficking.”
In addition to her advocacy, Barletta is the founder of the Visionary School of Arts and creator of the Power of Art ® curriculum and online courses, both of which have become invaluable resources for survivors of trafficking and at-risk youth. The Power of Art ® curriculum was specifically designed to overcome trauma and allow child and adult survivors to find restoration and empowerment through art and utilizing the right side of the brain. Her program has now been implemented in Martin County schools and has helped more than 400 trafficked and abused children find healing and a renewed sense of hope.
Barletta’s dedication and leadership extends beyond the classroom. Over the years, she has personally delivered more than 100 presentations across Florida, speaking in schools, churches, and community organizations, which have resulted in tips coming in with arrests and rescues. Through her Florida Faith Alliance, she has partnered with law enforcement, school districts, and businesses to launch initiatives like the “Don’t Take the Bait” awareness videos and curriculum. This educational program includes videos that teach students, parents, and educators how to recognize and resist the approaches of traffickers and predators while providing essential tools to protect children. “Don’t Take the Bait!” is currently in Martin County and Indian River School districts with plans to expand throughout Florida and the nation.
The Florida Attorney General’s Office presents several awards each year to individuals making significant contributions in the fight against human trafficking, including Survivor Advocate of the Year, Community Advocate of the Year, Prosecutor of the Year, and Law Enforcement Official of the Year. Additionally, the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Juvenile Justice honor individuals from their departments for their work against trafficking.
Lynne Barletta’s recognition as the Community Advocate of the Year underscores her impactful efforts and creative approach to advocacy, education, and survivor empowerment. Her leadership and innovative use of art as a tool for healing have inspired action and saved lives across Florida, making communities safer for children and families.
For more information about Florida Faith Alliance and Lynne Barletta’s ongoing initiatives to end human trafficking, please visit www.floridafaithalliance.org.
Hibiscus Children’s Center Seeks Passionate
Childcare Workers to Join Our Team!
Treasure Coast – If you are passionate about helping children and making a meaningful impact in their lives, Hibiscus Children’s Center wants you. The organization is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect.
As part of the Hibiscus team, childcare workers play a crucial role in delivering compassionate care, ensuring children feel safe, valued and loved. Hibiscus provides a safe haven and life changing services to children living at the Tilton Family Children’s Shelter in Jensen Beach and teens at Hibiscus Village in Vero Beach. These services include mental health counseling, tutoring, a literacy program, career internships and vocational training.
In addition to competitive compensation, Hibiscus offers great benefits including a $1,500 sign-on bonus, fully paid health insurance, a 401(K) plan and paid leave. Hibiscus also supports a collaborative workplace where employees are valued and have a voice.”
“Hibiscus staff make a profound difference in children’s lives every day,” said CEO Matt Markley. “Our frontline workers don’t just help children survive, they help them thrive. We believe in creating a supportive environment not just for kids, but for our incredible staff as well.”
If you are interested in becoming a champion for children, please visit us at: HibiscusChildrensCenter.org to apply online. To be considered, you must have a high school diploma or GED, be at least 21 and ideally have one year’s experience working with at-risk children. We look forward to hearing from you!
Referendum to Buy Natural Lands in Martin County
Passes with Nearly 64% of the Vote
Voters approved a half-cent sales tax to raise funds to be used to purchase lands to protect water quality, natural areas and wildlife habitat in Martin County, beginning January 1, 2025.
Martin County – Martin County is a special place to live and unique among communities along Florida’s coast. Voters took decisive action on November 5 to preserve its character and protect its natural resources for generations to come by approving a one-half cent sales tax for conservation efforts.
The Martin County Forever referendum, which passed with nearly 63.93% of the vote, is a clear demonstration of the community’s commitment to protecting natural lands, water quality, and wildlife. Funds raised through the sales tax will go towards purchasing land from willing sellers in strategic areas that benefit our local ecosystem. This critical measure will generate over $18 million a year for ten years and enable the county to leverage that revenue to obtain grants from state and federal funding sources. Targeted lands include approximately 46,000 acres with ecological significance. The four regions include properties in the Blueways Program (undeveloped parcels “in town” along the water); Indian River Lagoon South; Pal-Mar; and the headwaters of the Loxahatchee and St. Lucie Rivers, the Indian River Lagoon watershed, and Pal-Mar.
“Martin County voters have spoken. We’ll now be able to move ahead with identifying the specific properties available for acquisition,” said Jim Snedeker, Chairperson of the Martin County Forever Campaign Committee.
“While those of us who worked on this initiative over the past two years are certainly celebrating this success, we know we must remain vigilant and ensure the funds that are raised are spent the way voters intended,” Snedeker added.
“But for right now, in the moment, we are overjoyed. This is an environmental legacy we are creating for our kids, our grandkids and future generations in Martin County. The vote and this victory speaks volumes about our community’s values and commitment to a sustainable, healthy environment.”
The Martin County Forever Campaign Committee offers a heartfelt thank you to all of its dedicated volunteers, to The Firefly Group for running the campaign, and to the many local organizations, environmental groups, and community advocates who supported the referendum. Their collaboration and efforts were instrumental in the sales tax referendum passing. Some of the key supporters include 1000 Friends of Florida, Audubon of Martin County, The Conservation Fund, Keep Martin Beautiful, Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, Florida Wildlife Federation, Friends & Neighbors of Martin County, Friends of the Everglades, Indian Riverkeeper, Rivers Coalition, River Kidz, Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce, Trust for Public Land, and Vote Water Florida.
This significant win for conservation reflects a collective vision for Martin County, where natural beauty, clean water, and abundant wildlife remain integral to our identity as a community,” added Snedeker. “The passage of this referendum marks the beginning of a decade of meaningful change, making it possible for Martin County to continue to be a special place, different from the overdeveloped cities and counties to the north and south of us. We have more work to do, and we look forward to the challenge.”
Hamilton Farms Announces U-Pick Grand Opening on November 9 & 10
Photo credit: Jessica Tedder
Fort Pierce - Hamilton Farms is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its u-pick on Saturday, Nov. 9 and Sunday, Nov. 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Families and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to join the Hamilton family for a celebratory weekend of fun, fresh air and the joy of picking one’s own citrus, sunflowers and zinnias at the u-pick, located at 1500 North Header Canal Road in Fort Pierce.
Hamilton Farms is a seasonal u-pick offering varieties of citrus, flowers and strawberries (starting in December) that can be picked during their particular seasons.
Owners and Operators Matt and Jenna Hamilton are fifth-generation farmers, and their three children, Benjamin, Jesse, and Abigail, are sixth. The Hamilton’s farming roots run deep in Florida, as Matt Hamilton’s family started farming tomatoes in the 1930s before his great grandfather, Jesse Hamilton, purchased their family’s first citrus grove in 1958.
“Watching our kids’ passion for planting seeds and picking the crops led us to the idea of opening a u-pick for fellow families to enjoy,” Matt Hamilton said.
Citrus, sunflowers and zinnias will be available to pick during the grand opening weekend, with scissors and two-gallon buckets provided. U-pick pricing is based on the amount picked and crop availability. The Hamilton Farms Market will offer freshly picked floral stems and citrus, in addition to other seasonal produce and local favorites.
Admission and parking will be free. Regular season u-pick hours are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from October thru March. Strawberry season will tentatively begin in December and end in March, depending on weather and crop availability.
Visitors are encouraged to dress for the outdoors, as the majority of the farm is grass, sand or dirt, and to visit hamiltonfarmsupick.com/faqs for frequently asked questions regarding what to expect when visiting the farm.
“Visiting the u-pick will be a wonderful way for families to have fun together, learn more about where their food comes from and enjoy being on the farm,” Jenna Hamilton said. “We look forward to welcoming our community to our family’s home away from home.”
For more information about Hamilton Farms, please visit hamiltonfarmsupick.com, call 772-216-7169 or email hamiltonupick@gmail.com. “Like” Hamilton Farms on Facebook at facebook.com/hamiltonfarmsupick and follow the farm on Instagram @hamiltonfarmsupick for the continuous updates about the farm’s offerings, hours and events.
In Photo: Hamilton Farms Owners and Operators Matt and Jenna Hamilton with their three children Benjamin, Jesse and Abigail at their family’s working farm in Fort Pierce, Florida.
In Photo: Hamilton Farms Owners and Operators Matt and Jenna Hamilton with their three children Benjamin, Jesse and Abigail at their family’s working farm in Fort Pierce, Florida
In Photo: Sixth-generation farmers Benjamin, Jesse and Abigail Hamilton at their family’s working farm, Hamilton Farms, in Fort Pierce, Florida
Marshall’s Store Grand Opening Supports Community’s Children’s Advocacy Center
GFNF Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) is the only the only CAC serving the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee counties. The CAC exclusively provides comprehensive support for the child and is the first point of contact for an abused child coming into foster care. We are thrilled to announce Marshalls has selected us as their charity partner for the grand opening of their new store opening on November 14, 2024, at 8:00 AM at 1733 St. Lucie West Blvd, Port Saint Lucie, FL 34986. This partnership provides much-needed funding and awareness of our essential services across the community.
“We are incredibly grateful to Marshall’s for choosing us as their charity partner,” says Stephanie Castellanos, Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center. “This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce our mission to the community, where we serve Saint Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, and Indian River counties. With increased awareness and support, we can continue to offer a safe physical and psychological Center for the resources needed to help children and families heal from trauma.”
Since opening in July 2022, the Children’s Advocacy Center located in St. Lucie West has served over 1,200 children through intervention and 1,000 children through child abuse prevention programs. Every day, our team provides a safe, supportive environment where children can share their stories just once, minimizing trauma and enabling their journey to healing. This partnership with Marshall’s comes at a crucial time, as we work to meet the rising demand for our services in family advocacy and comprehensive child support.
Join Us on November 14 at Marshalls Grand Opening, 1733 St. Lucie West Blvd, Port Saint Lucie, FL. A portion of the day’s proceeds will directly support the Children’s Advocacy Center’s mission. By attending and shopping, you can make a difference in the lives of children who need it most.
Dyer Difference Award Offers Hope for Families and Burn Victims
In Photo: General Managers William Peck and Dallas Steiger, Internet Manager Brian Shankman, Sales Manager, Rocco Calabretta, Demetrius Gollett Foundation founder Delores Andrews, Demetrius Gollett, and Chiquita Andrews
Photos Courtesy of Ilena Luts
Nobody ever plans to become homeless, but the truth is that any one of us could find ourselves in the situation, no matter how hard we work or how solid our upbringing. Despite being employed full time, sometimes even with a second job, the decrease in the availability of affordable housing throughout our region has made homelessness an issue for more families thank you might imagine. Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of hope to help navigate the challenges and speed bumps of life. In Indian River County, some of that hope comes from the Hope for Families Center, a nonprofit organization whose goal is to help transition homeless families to sustainable permanent housing through providing safe shelter, healthy food, and supportive services. The Hope for Families (HFC) Center provides transitional shelter, nutritious food, and community resources for 21 families currently, and though the organization is in the process of expanding to accommodate more than double that number, there are 130 additional families on the waiting list. To help ensure that families in crisis are able to continue working, going to school, and working towards self-sufficiency, the October Dyer Difference Award recognizes and honors HFC and the hope it provides for every member of a family.
In St. Lucie County, the October Dyer Difference Award was presented to friends and family members of Demetrius Gollett and the Demetrius Gollett Burn Foundation created in his honor. Gollett, now a high school senior, was just eight when a house fire claimed the lives of his great grandparents who were his caregivers and left him severely burned. In the past ten years, this brave young man has endured more than 40 surgeries and has heroically worked to maintain a normal childhood. The Foundation created in his honor is designed to help support burn survivors and others who have faced trauma, starting with its namesake, Demetrius Gollett. Their upcoming fundraiser, Ladies in Red on Fire for the Lord is slated for December 8th at the Polish American Club in Port St. Lucie.
In Photo: Indian River County Photos Courtesy of Ilena Luts: Dyer Executive Manager Jonathan Hardie presents the Dyer Difference Award to Lindsay Kross of Hope for Families.
Impact100 Martin Launches New Season of Philanthropy
with Goal of $500,000 in Grants
Stuart – Impact100 Martin will launch its 2024-25 season of passionate and compassionate philanthropy this November with a high energy kickoff and a challenging goal: increase membership to 500 members and award five $100,000 community impact grants.
“We’re going into our eighth season of making a lasting difference in our community with game-changing grants to local nonprofits,” said Maureen Cotter, President of Impact100 Martin. “Our members have demonstrated how $1,000 from each Impact member can be leveraged into $100,000 grants. By reaching 500 members this year, we could infuse half a million dollars into the community in one year. That’s impactful!”
The keynote speaker for this year’s kickoff is Carrie Morgridge, a prominent philanthropist, author and advocate for education and community improvement, and a founding member of Impact100 Martin. She and her husband John founded the Morgridge Family Foundation in 2008, and their work has evolved over the years, from funding programs that are close to home, to investing in wide-scale solutions that can potentially impact millions of people and animals and improve outcomes for communities and our planet.
Morgridge is the author of three books, including Every Gift Matters: How Your Passion Can Change the World and Courage Money: A Guide to Becoming a Venture Philanthropist. She has twice been invited to speak on the TED stage.
In just seven years, the members of Impact100 Martin have contributed more than $1.8 million in grants in five focus areas that are essential to building strong communities: Arts & Culture, Education, Family, Health & Wellness, and Environment, Preservation & Recreation.
“Part of the power of Impact100,” Cotter said, “is that each member has an opportunity to dig deeply into the projects that our applicants propose and cast a vote for the one she believes is strategic and sustainable, with measurable goals and outcomes. At our grants showcase last spring, we could all see that the decisions we made resulted in meaningful change within our community.”
The kickoff begins at 5 pm at the Kane Center on the campus of the Council on Aging Martin on Salerno Road on Thursday, November 7. For more details about the event, membership opportunities, and successful Impact100 Martin grants, visit
info@impact100martin.org.
House of Hope Is Serving Up Thanksgiving Dinner
With All the Fixings
Stuart –A Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings is a cherished American tradition. For thousands of food-insecure Martin County residents, though, the celebration is a financial impossibility without help from the community.
House of Hope is once again stepping in to help with its annual turkey drive and its goal of serving a holiday meal with all the trimmings to families in economic need. In the true spirit of the giving season, community members are invited to drop off a frozen turkey and any other food or monetary donations to any House of Hope pantry by November 15. Groups, organizations and neighborhoods are encouraged to conduct a food drive in their community to help those in need.
“Boxed and canned items are always in demand,” according to House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “Vegetables, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy – all of the things that help to make a meal festive are needed by our families. Thanks to our operations at the Growing Hope Farm, we’re also able to add fresh fruits and vegetables to our meal packages.”
In an innovative approach to getting fresh food to their clients, House of Hope developed hydroponic greenhouses as well as conventional in-ground beds and an orchard at their production farm in Palm City. “We’re growing our own,” Ranieri said, “so we can be sure our clients benefit from fresh produce along with other staples in their diet.”
The demand for food assistance remains high. “This year we have distributed over 1.1 million pounds of food through our four food pantries and the thirty food pantry partners that collect food from us regularly,” Ranieri said. “Our food bank partners are soup kitchens, shelters, smaller pantries and youth programs in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee Counties. They use House of Hope food to reach thousands more in need.”
Donations of turkeys and other foodstuffs or monetary donations can be brought to the House of Hope offices at 2484 SE Bonita Street in Stuart or any of the House of Hope food pantries in Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound and Indiantown by November 15. Monetary donations can also be made online at https://www.hohmartin.org/donate.
“With the generosity of our community and the harvests from our farm,” Ranieri said, “we can make this Thanksgiving one that’s filled with the spirit of gratitude and also healthy food.”
Families or individuals in need can contact House of Hope at 772-286-4673 to learn about eligibility and registration deadlines.
Treasure Coast International Airport Receives FAA Part 139 Certification
Treasure Coast - The St. Lucie Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that Treasure Coast International Airport (TCIA) was awarded the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 139 Certificate. This significant achievement marks a milestone in the airport's history and recognizes the commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, security and operational excellence.
“This is an historic moment for St. Lucie County. We started this formal process in April of 2023 and we now have the ability to provide commercial air service. A special thanks goes to the Board of County Commissioners for their direction, support and leadership,” said County Administrator George Landry. “This could not have been achieved without the efforts of our Airport Director Cameron Howard and the entire airport team. The staff at the airport from the maintenance crews to the administrative staff worked tirelessly to get the facility and airport ready for this certification. They are a great reflection of St. Lucie County. Our focus on the community, economic development and creating endless opportunities contributes to the success of everyone in St. Lucie County.”
The FAA Part 139 Certification opens significant opportunities for TCIA to attract commercial airlines and expand its services. Airlines seeking to operate at airports with the highest safety standards will now consider TCIA as a viable and attractive option. This certification also positions TCIA as a competitive player in the aviation industry, ready to meet the demands of growing air travel. With more commercial flights, residents and businesses in the Treasure Coast region will enjoy greater access to destinations, facilitating travel and commerce.
“After years of perseverance and unwavering dedication, our airport has officially earned its Part 139 Certification, opening the door to commercial service. This achievement is a testament to the resilience and hard work of our entire team, who never gave up on the dream. Today, we celebrate not just a certification, but a milestone that will transform our community and connect us to new opportunities,” said St. Lucie County Commission Chair Cathy Townsend.
The FAA Part 139 Certification is a rigorous and comprehensive certification process that ensures airports meet stringent federal safety standards. These standards cover various aspects of airport operations, including aircraft rescue and firefighting, wildlife hazard management, emergency planning and the overall condition of the airfield. The certification process involves thorough inspections and continuous compliance with FAA. With this certification, TCIA is now officially recognized to accommodate scheduled passenger-carrying operations by air carriers that operate aircraft with more than 30 seats. The certification also enhances the airport's ability to support large charter services, cargo operations, and a variety of other aviation-related activities.
What is FAA Part 139 Certification?
Part 139 is a set of regulations administered by the FAA, requiring airports to comply with comprehensive safety and operational standards, including:
Regular safety inspections
Aircraft rescue and firefighting services
Emergency planning and response coordination
Wildlife hazard management
Runway maintenance and lighting
These requirements are designed to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew during commercial flight operations.
Benefits of Certification for Treasure Coast International Airport
The certification allows TCIA to elevate its role in regional transportation, encouraging economic growth and making it a more attractive destination for airlines and travelers. Local businesses, tourism and the broader Treasure Coast community will benefit from increased air traffic, enhanced connectivity and improved access to domestic and potentially international flights. The airport’s improved capabilities as a Part 139-certified facility signal its readiness to accommodate new commercial carriers and aviation services while maintaining its commitment to safety and efficiency.
Hibiscus Children’s Center Presents
“An Evening in Paris” to Benefit Children
Martin County – Get ready for an unforgettable evening of elegance and excitement at the Hibiscus Children’s Center, “An Evening in Paris” Casino Night. This showstopping event will be held on Friday, November 15th at Hutchinson Shores Spa & Resort.
This lovely evening will feature a casino, gourmet dinner and dancing to the sounds of DJ Brian Lemen. The festivities begin at 5:30pm with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, then head to the Casino to roll the dice! Each guest will receive a $100 voucher for chips and additional vouchers can be purchased throughout the evening. The top three highest rollers will have the chance to win incredible prizes!
All proceeds directly benefit children living at Hibiscus Children’s Center. Children receive life-changing services including educational and literacy services, medical and dental services, and mental health counseling. Hibiscus often receives children at all hours of the day and night. These children enter the shelter hungry and scared, with little more than the clothes on their backs. The stress endured from being removed from their home is traumatic. They walk through the doors of Hibiscus and into the staff’s hearts and the healing begins. It is because of your unwavering support that Hibiscus continues to provide safe haven and life changing services every day to vulnerable children.
Hibiscus Children’s Center is deeply grateful to our generous sponsors: Merci Beaucoup -
Braden & Braden Architects & Planners, Joan Damson, Michael & Nancy Del Priore, Richard & Deb Kessler, and Ted & Pat Tiemeyer; Bon Chance - Albert M Covelli Foundation and Jo Covelli, B.D. & Jane McIntyre Foundation and Charles McIntyre, Robert Crandall & Ellyn Stevenson, RBC Wealth Management - Pam Dallas & Gordon Nearing, Frank & Patricia Noonan and Richard & Nancy Zappala; LaVie En Rose - John & Andi Brennan, Sally Batz & Henley Sandidge, Dr. Al & Pam Gardner, Elizabeth Herold, Dick & Molly Hoffman, David & Joyce Powell, and Robert Weissman Foundation; Can Can - Timothy & Maureen Cotter, Richard & Cathleen Lennon, Kate Mikkelson – Edward Jones Investments, and RE/MAX of Stuart.
Special Thanks to Mark Greene, our Call to the Heart Auctioneer. Hibiscus Children’s Center thanks every sponsor, supporter and volunteer who is helping to make a difference for the children and give them a brighter future filled with hopes and dreams.
Event Co-chairs Kelley DeCowski and Kate Mikkelson, along with a dedicated committee of volunteers, have been busy planning for this exciting evening. Tickets are $250.00 per person and sponsorship packages are available with great recognition opportunities for your business. Contact us today for more information and to purchase your tickets at HibiscusChildrensCenter.org or Lori Swift at lswift@hcc4kids.org. We look forward to seeing you at An Evening in Paris to support the Hibiscus kids!
Celebrating a Decade of Success
Crossover Mission’s 10th Annual Gala
Vero Beach – Crossover Mission is thrilled to announce its Annual Gala, a special event marking its 10th anniversary of empowering underserved youth in Indian River County. This year’s Gala will be an extraordinary celebration, not only of Crossover’s decade-long impact but also of the progress made in transforming the lives of more than 500 student athletes since its inception. The evening will be highlighted by the return of Crossover Alumni, who will join in celebrating the milestones and successes of the past ten years, along with a unique, high-energy performance from Crossover's Dribble Team. Watch these talented student athletes showcase their incredible skills in a synchronized display of precision, rhythm, and teamwork—a captivating demonstration of the discipline and dedication at the heart of Crossover’s program.
Guests will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the ongoing renovations of Cossover Mission’s Center for Excellence, which stands as a testament to its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching environment for Indian River County student athletes. The 40,000 sq. ft. facility enables Crossover to deliver year-round academic and life skills mentoring, basketball training, and additional family support to the youth it serves.
This Gala is not just a celebration but also a reflection of the vital work that Crossover Mission does for the underserved youth in our community. By focusing on the Four A’s—Academics, Attitude, Athletics, and Attendance—Crossover ensures that its student athletes are equipped with the tools they need to succeed both on and off the court. The event will also underscore the importance of community support in continuing its mission to make a lasting difference in the lives of these young individuals.
Tickets are $250 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Visit crossovermission.com/gala to purchase tickets online or call 772.257.5400.
We invite members of the media to join us for this momentous occasion, with opportunities to interview Crossover co-founders, board of directors, and student athletea. Please contact Director of Development Triana Romero to RSVP or for more information about the event at 772.257.5400, tromero@crossovermission.com.
City of Fort Pierce Launches Residential Rehabilitation Program
Fort Pierce – The City of Fort Pierce’s Grants Administration Division is excited to announce the opening of its Residential Rehabilitation Program, aimed at providing assistance to eligible homeowners within the city. Starting Friday, November 1, 2024, at 8:00 AM, the program will begin accepting applications, with the submission period closing on Monday, November 25, 2024, at midnight.
A total of $1,000,000 has been allocated to this initiative, consisting of $717,020 from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and $282,980 from the State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) Residential Rehabilitation funds for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. These funds will help income-eligible applicants rehabilitate their homes, enhancing the quality of life for families within the City of Fort Pierce.
Applications will be processed on a first-submitted, first-qualified, first-eligible basis, and funding is subject to availability. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply promptly.
Program Requirements and Details
All applicants must attend a mandatory orientation before submitting their applications.
Orientation registration is available at: https://www.cityoffortpierce.com/FormCenter/Grants-Administration-21/Residential-Rehabilitation-Registration-147
Applications will not be reviewed without proof of orientation attendance.
For detailed program information and a list of required documents for application submission, please visit the City of Fort Pierce’s website: https://www.cityoffortpierce.com/170/Grants-Administration-Division
This program is made possible through funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) Program.
Contact Information
For additional information or assistance, please contact the Grants Administration Division:
Phone: 772-467-3161
Email: GrantsAdministration@cityoffortpierce.com
Council on Aging St. Lucie Denim & Diamonds
In Photo: Committee- Jennifer Ross, Yvette Cruz, Robert Driscoll, Antoinette Rolle, Community Champion Award recipients Ilena Luts, Joy Lees of Dyer Chevy, Lacinda Mouton (COO), Laurie Hoy-Orlik, Andriana Jallouk Raynor, and Roje Gonzalez
Article by: Yvette Cruz / Photos by: MaryAnn Ketcham
On Thursday, September 19th, the Council on Aging of St. Lucie, Inc. (COASL) hosted its Inaugural Fall Gala, Denim & Diamonds Fundraiser, Dinner & Dance event.
COASL provides meals and other services to seniors who have an immediate need for meals, Adult Day Care, in-home services, respite care, and transportation.
There are over 400 seniors who are on the waitlist for approval for services. COASL relies on funding from grants that meet the needs of the seniors.
With the generosity of our Sponsors and Community supporters, COASL was able to raise more than $25,000 at the Fall Gala. This is a great start to helping COASL continue to make an impact in the community.
Over 130 community supporters made donations, participated in a 50/50 drawing, a silent auction and celebrated COASL’s 51 years of excellent senior citizen services.
The night was filled with delicious food prepared by Santa Lucia River Club at Ballantrae, with Christa Stone of B-94.7 as our emcee, and music from DJ Royalty, the Gala was a fun-filled event.
The Council on Aging of St. Lucie, Inc. is grateful to its community of supporters! Please contact COASL at 772-336-8608 or visit their website at COASL.com to learn more.
In Photo: Padrick Pinkney with CEO and President Darrell Drummond
In Photo: SLC Commissioner Linda Bartz and Leidys Lorenzo
In Photo: COASL Sponsors
In Photo: Christine Rigg
In Photo: A great time on the dance floor!
In Photo: DJ MC Royalty
In Photo: Melissa Giarratano of Primary Care Solutions with Paula Kiley
Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing Joins the AllTrails Public Lands Program
Stuart – The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing has teamed up with the Martin County Environmental Resource Division to participate in the new Public Lands Program, launched by AllTrails earlier this year.
The announcement comes ahead of National Public Lands Day (September 28), which encourages volunteer efforts and celebrates the historical, cultural, and environmental treasures found throughout the nation’s public lands.
Part of the Tourism Office’s ongoing Explore Natural Martin ecotourism initiatives, this collaboration is designed to provide visitors and residents with enhanced access to more than 25 trails across all major county-managed preserves, ensuring safer, more responsible outdoor exploration.
The comprehensive mapped routes are now live on the free AllTrails app. These listings include information about Leave No Trace principles, important site details, and other interesting tidbits.
Land managers can also create and update routes and issue real-time alerts to help the public navigate the trails safely. QR codes linking directly to the free AllTrails app and specific routes will be installed at trailheads to make accessibility even easier for users.
AllTrails is the most trusted and widely used outdoor recreation platform. Named the 2023 iPhone App of the Year, the service enables users to explore curated trail routes in natural areas around the world. Currently, more than 250 land management agencies participate in the program, including the U.S. National Parks Service, the Nature Conservancy, various state park agencies, and more.
“We’re thrilled to work with AllTrails to expand access to Martin County’s remarkable natural areas,” said Nerissa Okiye, Martin County Tourism Director. “This program will not only help people discover the natural beauty of our trails, but will also support the mission of Explore Natural Martin by encouraging responsible outdoor recreation and ongoing environmental stewardship.”
The AllTrails platform is used by over 65 million outdoor enthusiasts worldwide and is a proud 1% for the Planet Partner, contributing part of its annual revenue to organizations that support equitable access to outdoor spaces, such as the Leave No Trace organization, the Conservation Alliance, and Camping to Connect.
Download the free AllTrails app to get started and learn more about exploring Martin County’s trails.
Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing Wins Shining Example Award at Southeast Tourism Society's Annual Connections Conference
Stuart – The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing recently earned a prestigious 2024 Shining Example Award, presented by the Southeast Tourism Society.
The team won the Best Niche Marketing Award for a multifaceted campaign promoting their ecotourism program, Explore Natural Martin. The campaign included print and digital components, public relations tactics, influencer partnerships, original content pieces, and more. In total, the campaign garnered over 200 million impressions and drove more than 100,000 visits to the ecotourism microsite.
The coveted award was presented during the Southeast Tourism Society’s annual Connections Conference, held in Auburn, Alabama. Each year, tourism leaders are chosen by a selection committee to receive these sought-after awards for their accomplishments in tourism marketing, revenue growth, and individual contributions to the industry. The awards cover 13 categories, including the Chairman’s Award and the Dorothy Hardman "Spirit of STS" Award.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from the Southeast Tourism Society,” said Nerissa Okiye, Martin County Tourism Director. “Our Explore Natural Martin efforts reflect our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Martin County while inviting visitors to discover and enjoy it responsibly. This award is a testament to the hard work of our team and the partnerships we’ve built to showcase the unique environmental assets and attractions that make our destination so special.”
A full list of the Shining Example Award winners will be posted shortly on the STS website: https://www.southeasttourism.org/
Kitty Catalina Raises Money for Shelter Animals
In Photo: Author and animal rescue advocate Sherry Dunn, who was the presenting event sponsor
Article & Photos by: Doreen Poreba
Kitty Catalina — the purr-fect event for cat and wine lovers
Palm City — The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast recently held its seventh annual Kitty Catalina Wine Mixer, which raised over $5,200 to help the no-kill shelter's adoptable animals. Animal rescue advocate and international best-selling author Sherry Dunn was the presenting sponsor and was on site showcasing her children's book, "Maddie & Jasmine."
Almost 90 attendees mixed and mingled with friends while sampling a variety of wines from Keel and Curley Winery, Florida Orange Groves Winery, San Sebastian Winery and Secret Gardens Winery, all Florida wineries. Chef Amy from Heritage Kitchen at Secret Gardens provided light bites.
At the end of the event, guests were hoping to have their raffle ticket number called for the 17 prizes that were available.
Of course, the superstars were the cats and kittens, as supporters gave them additional love throughout the evening. Because of Dunn's sponsorship, the adoption fee was waived during the event for felines over one year old. Additional sponsorship support was generously provided by TC Palm, Seacoast Bank and Publix.
Although it rained most of the evening, the night skies were capped off with a double rainbow over the humane society's Memorial Garden.
For more information about future events, contact Alyssa Bean, community events specialist, at 772-600-3215, or Events@hstc1.org.
In Photo: Bob Lepa, Judith Just, Diana and Glenn Schreiner
In Photo: Volunteers Neda Story and Kimberly Smart
In Photo: Melony Zaravelis and Brittany Robinson with Blair
In Photo: Michele and Sam Adler with Salem
In Photo: Liz and Martin County Commissioner Ed Ciampi
In Photo: Lisa Alloe and Jeff Taylor
In Photo: Michelle Johnson is all smiles as she claims her basket of goodies
Community Foundation Awards Grant to Education Foundation
In Photo: (From left)
Candice Tedesco and Jinara Reyes recently joined Pamela Amsbaugh and Lisa Rhodes on the Foundation & #39;s staff
Photo by: Doreen Poreba
Stuart — The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties has awarded a $49,000 grant to the Education Foundation of Martin County.
This funding will support the Education Foundation’s efforts to continue strengthening organizational operations and programs by investing in staff expansion and retention. This will benefit Martin County public schools, teachers and students.
Lisa Rhodes, the Education Foundation’s executive director, expressed her gratitude to the Community Foundation for its important support.
“This grant will enable us to successfully grow our operations and expand our programming,” said Rhodes, “Our goal of increasing student reading proficiency is one of many benefits that this grant supports.”
For more information on the Education Foundation and its programs, visit www.educationfoundationmc.org.
Referendum to Buy Natural Lands in Martin County on the Ballot Nov 5 Gains Momentum
If approved, funds raised from half-cent sales tax would be used to purchase lands to protect water quality, natural areas and wildlife habitat in Martin County
Martin County – Martin County is a special place to live and different from areas to the north and south. Residents want to keep it that way.
“The recent outcry from the public about the proposed plans to build golf courses in our beloved Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a stark reminder of why we must take matters into our own hands. We need to buy and protect environmentally sensitive lands in Martin County right now,” said Jim Snedeker, Chairperson of the Martin County Forever campaign.
On the Martin County ballot on November 5 is a referendum to Protect Water Quality, Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitat through a half cent sales tax. If approved, it will raise over $18 million a year for ten years to acquire and preserve approximately 46,000 acres of land in specific areas. The amount of land targeted for purchase and permanent protection is more than four times the size of JD State Park. The lands to be purchased from willing sellers would help to improve water quality in our rivers and waterways, ensure safe drinking water sources, preserve wildlife habitats and open spaces, and create more recreational opportunities.
Safeguards Built into the Referendum
Martin County Forever advocates worked with county staff to structure the referendum with built-in safeguards to ensure the funds raised are only spent the way voters intended. The land purchases will be overseen by a Citizens Advisory Committee, with activities conducted with public transparency and annual audits required. Only lands within four key areas are identified for purchase. Those areas are: Blueways, 400 acres of “in town” parcels, adjacent to local waterways; Indian River Lagoon South, 27,000 acres of critical importance to the health of the Lagoon; Loxahatchee and St. Lucie Headwaters, 9,800 acres essential to the health of both rivers; and Pal-Mar, 8,500 acres of high-quality wetlands in Martin County.
Key Facts About the Half Cent Sales Tax:
In 10 years, it would generate about $183 million.
More than a third of the total (37.5%) would be paid by people who don’t live in Martin County.
The dollars raised locally could leverage matching funds from federal, state and other land conservation sources.
The current sales tax rate would increase from 6.5% to 7%.
Importantly, just like our current sales tax, the half-cent increase would NOT apply to groceries, prescription medications or school supplies or to the portion of any purchase over $5,000.
“This referendum puts the future of Martin County in our own hands,” said Merritt Matheson, former Mayor of the City of Stuart, environmental advocate and strong supporter of the referendum. “We urge all Martin County voters to educate themselves on the referendum, get involved and help spread the word. The clock is ticking. If we don’t buy the land now, it can be developed and gone forever.
Many Ways to Be Part of the Campaign
Volunteers are needed to spread the word and campaign organizers have some fun ways to get the message out to voters. A song, “Let’s Buy the Land” was produced to make the campaign more memorable. The folksy tune and heartfelt lyrics are a fun way to get across a serious message, according to Martin County Forever organizers. The song is easy to learn and available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and other streaming services. A full cut video featuring the song as well as shorter versions are also available to watch and share through Martin County Forever’s YouTube channel.
For more information, visit www.martincountyforever.com. Follow Martin County Forever on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
Additional Referendum Information.
Here’s how the official referendum wording will appear on the ballot:
Lands to Protect Water Quality, Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitat
Shall Martin County protect its water quality and unique character by acquiring critical natural lands in Martin Couty within the Indian River Lagoon South, Pal-Mar, Loxahatchee and St. Lucie Headwaters, Blueways areas and provide municipal infrastructure allowed by law, by levying a one-half percent (0.5%) county sales tax for 10 years starting January 1, 2025 with Annual Audit and Citizen Oversight?
Jim Snedeker and Merritt Matheson are available for interviews
House of Hope Creates Disaster Kits with Grant from The Community Foundation Martin-St. Lucie
Stuart – If you live paycheck to paycheck, it’s almost impossible to gather the supplies you’ll need before a hurricane or the resources you’ll need to recover.
The House of Hope staff know this story all too well: low income families who go into a hurricane without the ability to stock up on supplies, households who lose precious perishable food when the electricity goes out, hourly workers who can’t get paid because their places of employment are shuttered.
Thanks to a designated disaster-relief fund established through The Community Foundation of Martin-St. Lucie, nonprofits like the House of Hope are able to be proactive in providing clients with hurricane-preparedness kits before the storm and responding quickly after it.
“Historically, in the middle of the storm, I would be preparing to reach out to our clients and friends to say, ‘Okay, it’s real. The storm hit. We’re going to need to help the frontline organizations really quickly’,” The Community Foundation Martin-St. Lucie CEO Elizabeth Barbella said. “And when the dust settled, we’d be reaching out to organizations asking for some type of simple application and then deploying the resource.”
The Local Disaster Relief Fund gives donors an opportunity to set aside funds in advance of a hurricane or other disaster. Their proactive philanthropy gives nonprofits like House of Hope the knowledge that resources will be there when needed.
“Now we can plan, knowing we will have the resources in place and ready to go when our clients need them,” House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri said. “It will make us an effective resource for the lower income community, and it will be almost instant, like flipping a switch.”
This summer House of Hope began using funds from the program to assemble 1150 hurricane preparedness kits, including 250 that have additional supplies for those experiencing homelessness. Supplies include non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, water, tarps, hand sanitizer, manual can opener, garbage bags, a first aid kit, tents, bug spray, and string bags.
Without this assistance, most of the organization’s clients wouldn’t be able to stockpile supplies, said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “It’s a couple hundred bucks they don’t have in their budget.”
House of Hope is taking the lead in working with partner agencies in neighboring counties, distributing support to Mustard Seed and GraceWay Village in St. Lucie County and Our Village in Okeechobee County.
“We’re grateful to The Community Foundation and its donors for the incredible foresight to plan ahead and put a structure in place that will greatly benefit the people we serve,” Ranieri said. “The Local Disaster Relief Fund in an ingenious concept and a lifesaver.”
To learn more about House of Hope or make a donation, visit House of Hope’s website at www.hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673.
Community partners and volunteers, including a team from Macy’s, helped House of Hope pack supplies into 1,150 kits for vulnerable households and for individuals experiencing homelessness in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee Counties so they’ll be better prepared for hurricane season.
In Photo: Community partners and volunteers, including a team from Macy’s, helped House of Hope pack supplies into 1,150 kits for vulnerable households
CTWH Announces Partnership with Monique Burr Foundation
In Photo: Sarah Marie Henry - Executive Director of Catch the Wave of Hope
Article by: Jackie Holfelder / Photo by: Catch the Wave of Hope
The Monique Burr Foundation for Children (MBF), a nonprofit organization located in Jacksonville, was founded in 1997 to educate and protect children and teens from all types of bullying, abuse, and other types of child victimization using evidence-based and evidence-informed prevention education programs.
Sarah Marie Henry, executive director of Catch the Wave of Hope (CTWH), recently announced a new partnership with MBF.
The CTWH team completed the Monique Burr Foundation’s Facilitator Training in the Child & Teen Safety Matters Curriculum, which gives CTWH leadership the credentials and resources to offer MBF curriculum in any Florida school at no charge to the school.
This evidence-based curriculum is approved by the Florida Board of Education and meets the state mandate on Human Trafficking Prevention for all K-12 grade students.
This important designation allows schools to outsource this required program. It is especially important because not all human trafficking training programs have state approval.
Henry says that when schools permit Catch the Wave of Hope staff present the MBF program to their students, it decreases the workload for school personnel while equipping youth with the information they need to protect themselves from this ever-increasing threat to their safety and well-being.
To find out more about how Catch the Wave of Hope can bring this important educational tool to your school, contact Sarah Marie Henry at sarahmarie.henry@catchthewaveofhope.org.
City of Fort Pierce Gold Hammer Award Nominations Are Now Open
Fort Pierce – The City of Fort Pierce is excited to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the prestigious Gold Hammer Awards. Mayor Linda Hudson invites residents and business owners to participate by recognizing those in the community who have made significant improvements to their properties through new construction or rehabilitation efforts.
The Gold Hammer Awards celebrate the dedication and commitment of individuals who have enhanced the beauty and value of their homes or businesses, contributing to the overall vibrancy of the Fort Pierce community.
Winners of the Gold Hammer Awards will be announced during the upcoming Coffee with the Mayor event, scheduled for Friday, October 18, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. at the Fort Pierce Yacht Club located at 700 N. Indian River Dr., Fort Pierce, FL 34950.
Nominations are open until Friday, September 30, 2024. Submissions can be made easily through the online nomination form available at https://cityoffortpierce.com/FormCenter/City-Clerk-26/Gold-Hammer-Award-Nomination-Form-138.
For more information regarding the Gold Hammer Awards or the nomination process, please visit Gold Hammer & Neighborhood Gem | Fort Pierce, FL - Official Website (cityoffortpierce.com) or contact the City Clerk’s Office at 772.467.3065.
Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing Wins Two Awards at Visit Florida's Flagler Awards
Stuart -The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing has received a prestigious Shining Example Award, presented by the Southeast Tourism Society.
The team brought home the Best Digital Marketing Award for exceptional use of digital marketing tactics to promote their “Summer of Fun” campaign. Developed in partnership with Atlanta Magazine, the buzzworthy collaboration generated over two million impressions and engaged potential visitors living in the key Atlanta drive market through custom e-mail marketing efforts, digital ads, social media content and more.
The revered award was presented during the Southeast Tourism Society’s annual Connections Conference, held in Jackson, Mississippi. Each year, tourism leaders are chosen by a selection committee to receive these sought-after awards for their accomplishments in tourism marketing, revenue growth, and individual contributions to the industry.
In total, 13 awards were presented across 12 individual categories. Additional winners in this year’s program included Visit Myrtle Beach, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou and North Little Rock Tourism.
“With so many talented tourism marketing professionals and incredible destinations sprinkled across the Southeast, it’s truly an honor to see our team’s efforts recognized in the 2023 Shining Example Awards,” said Ian Centrone, Martin County Tourism Program Manager. “As always, we’re extremely grateful to our partners and local stakeholders for their ongoing support.”
A full list of the Shining Example Award winners will be posted shortly on the STS website: https://www.southeasttourism.org/shining-example.
Ardie R. Copas and Treasure Coast Hospice Celebrate “Bi” Centennial Birthdays for Veterans
In Photo: Veterans Francis O'Connell and Edward J. Courtois with Treasure Coast Hospice staff
Article & Photos by MaryAnn Ketcham
Retired World War II veterans Chief Warrant Officer Francis O'Connell and Petty Officer Edward J. Courtois were surrounded by a gathering of local dignitaries, friends, relatives, and fellow residents of the Ardie R. Copas State Veterans' Nursing Home in Tradition as they celebrated their milestone 100th birthdays.
The room was filled with warmth and gratitude as Ardie Copas and Treasure Coast Hospice staff members came together to plan this special occasion, not only to mark the extraordinary longevity of these two remarkable men, but also to pay homage to their distinguished and selfless service to their country.
As they entered the room in regal attire, the gentlemen were greeted with cheers and warm introductions by Treasure Coast Hospice Veteran Volunteer Dorothea Morris, who served in the U.S. Air Force. She thanked them for their service and presented them with red, white, and blue blankets, a miniature encased flag, a commemorative Veteran challenge coin, and a personalized certificate, which are all part of Treasure Coast Hospice’s Veteran Recognition Program.
Treasure Coast Hospice is a Level Five We Honor Veterans Partner with Veterans Affairs and other veterans organizations. As part of the Veteran-to-Veteran program, Morris honored Courtois and O'Connell by affixing a pin to their chests in gratitude for their sacrifices.
Angel Robertson, a representative for U.S. Congressman Brian Mast, presented a letter of appreciation from the Congressman, first to Petty Officer Courtois. It read in part, "Your service in the U.S. Navy during World War II is a testament to your courage and patriotism."
The letter to Chief Warrant O'Connell showed equal gratitude. "Your service in the U.S. Marines demonstrates your honor and dedication to preserving our freedoms." Mast’s letter also thanked O’Connell for his sacrifice as a nine-month POW.
As a chorus of 'Happy Birthday' rang out, guests saluted the two heroes, and cupcakes were passed around. It's not every day that the opportunity to celebrate a 'Bi'Centennial arises with two American veteran heroes commemorating their 100th birthdays and being recognized for their service to a grateful nation.
For more information, visit TreasureHealth.org.
In Photo: Carolyn (O'Connell) Matthews dances with her uncle Chief Warrant Officer Francis O'Connell
In Photo: Petty Officer Edward J. Courtois dances with Rose Sanon
In Photo: Inomer Gorut, LPN and Dorothea Morris, Volunteer at Treasure Coast Hospice We Honor Veterans
In Photo: Chief Warrant Officer Francis O'Connell, Petty Officer Edward J. Courtois
In Photo: Navy and Army Veteran Calvin Heathman reads the military bios of Edward J. Courtois and Francis O'Connell
In Photo: Petty Officer Edward J. Courtois with friends Chicky Hanson, Elaine Martell and Patti Lee Wagner
In Photo: Dorothea Morris, Volunteer at TC Hospice We Honor Veterans pins Chief Warrant Officer Francis O'Connell
In Photo: Petty Officer Eddie Courtoise makes a grand entrance
In Photo: Natalie & Francis Corrigan, Riverland Veteran's Club
In Photo: Sherika Ayers, Activities Director at Ardie R. Copas
House of Hope Forges New Partnership with Foxwynd Foundation
Stuart – When the House of Hope staff learned about the mission of the Foxwynd Foundation, newly founded in 2024, they knew it could be the beginning of a perfect partnership.
The Foxwynd Foundation is based in Pennsylvania, but dedicated members of the Bentley family that began the foundation are using funds to create “a catalyst for transformational change” all across the country.
The Foxwynd Foundation describes its mission as being “a lifeline for communities in need by enhancing access to key pillars of human dignity and potential such as healthcare, housing, and sustainable environmental initiatives.”
House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri realized immediately how closely that resembles the House of Hope mission to empower residents to overcome hunger and hardship.
“Like the Foxwynd Foundation, we put huge value on respecting the dignity of the people we serve,” he said. “The emphasis on sustainable environmental initiatives also fits with our efforts throughout our organization, but especially at the Growing Hope Farm, to use natural resources wisely and be good stewards of the environment. In fact, our efforts won an Environmental Stewardship Award just this year from Keep Martin Beautiful.”
The Foxwynd Foundation DAF funded the Foxwynd Foundation's generous donation to the House of Hope. Half of the funds received will help House of Hope procure perishable items for its pantries and food bank partners. “Perishable items aren’t typically donated and have a short shelf life,” Ranieri said, “but we know that foods like milk, butter, eggs, chicken, turkey and meats are important parts of the well-rounded healthy diet that we try to provide for our clients.”
The other half of the grant will be used to support the operations of the Growing Hope production farm in Palm City, where greenhouses, orchards, and a packing house enable House of Hope to grow fresh produce for its Client Choice pantries and food bank partners. At peak production, the farm is now producing well over 1,500 packages of fresh produce weekly.
“We’re very grateful to the Foxwynd Foundation for their confidence in us,” Ranieri said. “While House of Hope is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, we continue to grow and find new ways to help our clients and the community.”
To learn more about House of Hope or to make a donation, visit House of Hope’s website at www.hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673.
The 2024 Dancing with the Martin Stars Line-Up Announced for the
Martin County Healthy Start Coalition
Stuart - Competition among the2024 Dancing with the Martin Stars contestants is hotter than the weather. Nine professional dancers are teaching their volunteer partners the intricate steps of the waltz, cha-cha, foxtrot and tango in preparation for the big showdown on Saturday, September 21.
Dancing with the Martin Stars is the popular signature event of the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition. Held annually at the Lyric Theatre in Stuart, this year’s competition has already sold out.
“We’re so grateful to all of our dancers, sponsors and supporters,” Martin County Healthy Start Coalition CEO Samantha Suffich said. “The funds we raise through this fun event go directly to our mission of ensuring that in Martin County, every baby is born healthy, every mother is supported, and every father is involved.”
Because of the huge number of people who want to attend the competition, Martin County Healthy Start Coalition has added a Livestream Watch Party. Guests will be able to see the entire competition livestreamed into the Ross Hall at the Pittenger Center on the campus of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Stuart. Tickets to the Watch Party, which include food and a drink ticket, are available at https://www.mchealthystart.org/dancing-with-the-martin-stars/2024-stars-dancers/ . Space is limited.
This year’s Martin Stars lineup includes Christian Anderson, dancing with local professional Daisy Krakowiak-Wiebe; Casey Caplan, with Brian Spector; Lorna Day, with Angel R. Tamayo III; Matthew Durbin, with Emily Matos; Jonathan Garich, with Tanya Chaves; Stephanie Martinez, with Michael Chaves; April Milner, with Eliseo Ruiz; Matthew Right, with Eva B. Velez and directed by Marianella Tobar; and Sue Whittington, with Jang Don.
For months the dancers have been learning their steps and choosing fabulous costumes. That’s only part of the challenge, however. They have also been raising funds with a variety of mini events like dinners, wine tastings, and auctions to boost their fundraising totals.
The goal for this year’s event is $280,000. “The dancers have just blown us away with their passion and enthusiasm,” Suffich said. “We truly believe that they’re going to reach the goal and exceed it.”
For more information, visit https://www.mchealthystart.org/dancing-with-the-martin-stars/2024-stars-dancers/.
“Building for Tomorrow” is the Focus of the Florida Resilience Conference in Early September
Florida’s resilience to storms, hurricanes, rising seas, energy demands, and threats to the state’s infrastructure will be the focus of the 3rd Annual Florida Resilience Conference in Bonita Springs from September 11 to 13, 2024.
This year’s conference focus is “Building for Tomorrow.” “Florida’s unique geography makes it imperative that we gather our best leaders and strategists and learn from their research and experience about ways to increase our state’s resilience,” said David Rathke, Executive Director of Resiliency Florida. “The future of Florida to continue our economic growth and simultaneously preserve our natural treasures truly depends on our ability address these issues holistically,” said Pepper Uchino, President of the Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association.
During the three day conference, sessions will be conducted on legislative policies and priorities critical to resilience efforts, vulnerability assessments, innovations and partnerships, beach nourishment projects, hurricane recovery efforts, and case studies from the field. Attendees will include members of the Legislature and legislative staff, local officials, environmental organizations, coastal engineers, tourist development councils, community associations, and citizens from across the state who are concerned about resilience issues.
The conference also includes the 67th annual meeting of the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association and the 8th annual meeting of Resiliency Florida. The FSBPA functions as a league of cities and counties on beach and coastal issues, providing information and working with stakeholders throughout Florida on issues related to beach erosion and preservation, and Resiliency Florida is the leading Florida voice on state and regional planning and adaptation for climate and extreme weather impacts.
Registration for the conference is available online through September 6 at www.floridaresilienceconference.org and then onsite at the Hyatt Regency in Bonita Springs. For more information and the conference agenda, visit the Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association at www.floridaresilienceconference.org.
Kiwanis Club of Stuart Shines with Worldwide Award
In Photo: Accepting the Silver Award for the Kiwanis Club of Stuart were, from left, Secretary Bob Burson, Florida Division Governor Prairy Rhiel, President Virginia Hill, and Board Member Branden Baird.
Stuart – The Kiwanis Club of Stuart has received international recognition of Kiwanis Park at Woodlawn, reaching an impressive milestone in its mission to improve the lives of children. The park is a long-standing community service project in downtown Stuart.
In early March, the club was selected as one of the top 20 finalists in the Kiwanis International Signature Project Contest, a competition that highlights exemplary work carried out by Kiwanis Clubs worldwide. The Stuart club was later notified of its advancement to the top 10 finalists.
A delegation consisting of President Virginia Hill, Secretary Bob Burson, Board Member Branden Baird, and Florida District Governor Prairy Rhiel represented the club at the Kiwanis International Convention held July 4 in Denver. At the convention, the Kiwanis Club of Stuart made its mark by winning the second place Silver Award.
"The four of us were incredibly humbled and honored to accept on behalf of all Kiwanians who have worked on this park over the last 35 years to make it what it is today," said President Virginia Hill. She emphasizes this was a collaborative effort that has not only included club members but also highlighted the vital partnership with the City of Stuart and the invaluable contributions of community partners and volunteers.
This prestigious contest attracted nearly 600 entries from over 8,000 Kiwanis clubs located in more than 90 countries, all dedicated to improving the lives of children.
To qualify for the finals, clubs had to showcase projects that have a substantial impact on their communities and demonstrate sustainability, enhance Kiwanis' image and reinforce membership and community partnerships.
“For the past 35 years, our club has transformed the Kiwanis Park into a cherished community asset,” said President Hill. “The project took root in 1988 in response to a vision for a dedicated recreational space. The club initiated a partnership with the city, leading to groundbreaking ceremonies in 1990.”
Over the decades, the park has witnessed expansive growth and enhancements. Major additions, including new pavilions, an accessible playground, and the recently inaugurated "Destination Playground," have drawn residents and visitors alike. While the park thrives, the club is committed to ongoing improvements. Future plans include adding benches, accessible ground cover under the swings, and special reading and art areas.
The club remains open to new members, inviting those interested in making a difference to join their gatherings held every first and third Tuesday at Manero's Restaurant. For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Stuart and its numerous projects, visit their website at KiwanisClubofStuart.org.
In Photo: Virginia Hill, President, Kiwanis Club of Stuart, addresses the Stuart City Commission regarding the Club's Silver Award and recognizes the city's support of the Kiwanis Park at Woodlawn.
In Photo: Playgrounds was celebrated in March during the club’s annual Pancakes & Reading in the Park event. The park has four playground areas and multiple Little Free Libraries stocked by Kiwanians.
Time to Apply for Live Your Dream Awards
In Photo: 2024 Award winners.
Article by: Jackie Holfelder / Photo by: Soroptimist of Stuart
Since 1972, Soroptimist International’s Live Your Dream Awards program has been helping women who are working to better their lives through additional schooling and skills training.
The financial support they receive often makes the difference in allowing them to continue with the education that is so precious to them.
This spring, Soroptimist International of Stuart (SIS) was able to present three women with 2024 awards at their Awards Dinner in May.
On August 15, the application portal for the 2024 Live Your Dream Awards opened and the enrollment process – which is completely online – couldn’t be simpler.
The parameters for the Live Your Dream award specify that the recipient must be a primary breadwinner for themself and their dependents, be attending an undergraduate degree program or a vocational skills training program, and have a financial need.
Recent winners have used their monetary awards at local schools such as IRSC and Keiser University to pursue degrees and careers in nursing, digital media, health care management, and social work, among other fields.
Eligible applicants can submit their application between August 15 - November 15.
Ultimately, a Live Your Dream Awards finalist has the potential receive up to $16,000 to help offset tuition costs, purchase books, get transportation, or find reliable childcare so she can worry less about how to pay her bills and focus on reaching her dreams.
For more information or to apply for a Live Your Dream Award online, visit www.soroptimistofstuart.org.
Efforts to Place East Stuart on National Register of Historic Places Gains Media Attention
Stuart - The City of Stuart’s initiative to have the East Stuart community placed on the National Register of Historic Places garnered significant media coverage this week, including features in both print and television news.
Steve Cooper, a member of the East Stuart Historical Advisory Committee, was interviewed by WPBF anchor and reporter Jade Jarvis about the application process (see link below for the news segment). City Commissioner Eula Clarke, along with historian Palm Weaver, president of Historic Property Associations, also discussed the effort with Treasure Coast Newspapers reporter Keith Burbank. Weaver, who was hired by the city to prepare the East Stuart application, provided insights into the survey conducted to assess whether individual properties within East Stuart qualify for listing on the National Register and if the neighborhood itself could be recognized as a historic district.
The proposed boundaries for the historic district are defined as S.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to the north, S.E. 10th Street to the south, the Florida East Coast Railway tracks to the west, and S.E. Tarpon Avenue to the east (see link below for the full online news article).
The journey to officially designate East Stuart as a historic community began in 2022, with the final application submitted this spring. Pinal Gandhi-Savdas, Executive Director of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), is optimistic that the City will receive news on the application’s status later this year.
"If East Stuart receives this designation, it will enable the protection and preservation of historic buildings," said Pinal Gandhi-Savdas.
The Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast Continues to Shine with Special Needs Events
The Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast remains steadfast in its dedication to inclusivity by offering special events tailored specifically for families with special needs. These events, crafted for smaller groups, ensure that children can enjoy their museum experience without feeling overwhelmed.
In the past, the museum has hosted a range of successful special needs events, such as a delightful Valentine's Day celebration, a magical meet and greet with Santa, and a fun-filled summer day. These activities have been met with enthusiastic approval from families, and the museum is thrilled to announce more upcoming events.
Save the dates for these special needs events:
Back to School Event: August 18th
Trick or Treating: October 6th
Holiday Event: December 15th
Additionally, the museum offers Sensory Sundays, sponsored by Colorado Pawn & Jewelry, on the second Sunday of every month. These sessions provide a serene and welcoming environment for children with sensory sensitivities, allowing them to engage with the exhibits at their own pace.
"Families have shared their appreciation for our events, highlighting that they provide a welcoming environment where children of all abilities can enjoy themselves. They value having a space designed specifically for kids, allowing them to have fun and be themselves without any judgment," said Christina McIntosh, Events Coordinator at The Children's Museum.
To maintain a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants, all special needs events at The Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast require registration to keep attendee numbers low.
For more information about these events or to learn how you can sponsor an activity, please contact Christina at community@childrensmuseumtc.org or call 772-225-7575 ext. 204. The museum looks forward to welcoming families and creating memorable experiences for children with special needs in the community.
United Against Poverty Hosts Hand UP Luncheon: A Day of Inspiration and Learning
In Photo: The Committee
Article by: Sean Howald /Photos by: MaryAnn Ketcham
Port St. Lucie – United Against Poverty St. Lucie County was delighted to host its annual fundraising event, the Hand UP Luncheon, on Friday, August 2, 2024, at the St. Lucie Mets Stadium, located at 31 Piazza Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986. The afternoon featured inspiring personal success stories and an introduction to United Against Poverty's impactful work. The event was designed as a lunch-and-learn, providing an introduction and overview of our programs and services aimed at lifting lives. All proceeds raised from the luncheon will directly fund UP St. Lucie's programs and services, which focus on empowering families and individuals to achieve sustainable economic self-sufficiency.
“We are so grateful for the opportunity to see the community support for our mission. Our model, of a hand up, not a handout, is meant for people who need help making ends meet. Your contribution is vital because poverty does not discriminate,” said Sean Howald, Executive Director, St. Lucie Campus, United Against Poverty.
The funds raised will support the Success Training Employment Program (STEP), a three-phase adult workforce training program designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. Additionally, the funds will go towards supporting Crisis Stabilization, the Member Share Grocery Program, Workforce Development, and Education Programs at UP St. Lucie County.
Visit www.upslc.org to make a donation and to learn more about United Against Poverty and its programs and services.
In Photo: SLC Superintendent of Schools Jon Prince and PSL City Councilwoman Stephanie Morgan
In Photo: Linda Rusciano, Sean Howald, Brandon Nobile and Dawn Knupp
In Photo: Yoli Fox and Yari Adams
In Photo: Katie & Owen Hartley with Paul and Michael Trabulsy of Southern Eagle Distributing
In Photo: Travis Leonard and State Rep Toby Overdorf
In Photo: State Rep. Dana Trabulsy, Nikita & Rhett Lloyd
In Photo: PSL Police Chief Rich Del Toro and Michael Rusciano
In Photo: Jason Yarborough, Meghan Favole, Sean Howald and Deb Doherty
In Photo: John Cesar, Elaine Williams, Thom Epsky and Jacky Ruiz
In Photo: Laura Barnes and SLC Property Appraiser Michelle Franklin
In Photo: Kelly Haynes, Christine Cardif-Lewis and Caity Mendez
Dyer Difference Award Supports Education and Survivors
In Photo: General Manager Jonathan Holmes and Alissa Scott from The Inner Truth Project.
Photos by: Ilena Luts
While it may be a shock to many, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), over half of women and almost one in three men have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes. One in four women and about one in 26 men have experienced completed or attempted rape. On the Treasure Coast, there is only one secular organization which assists survivors with therapeutic services and community education on prevention and trauma.
In July, the Dyer Difference Award honors the work of that organization, the Inner Truth Project, which assists up to 3,000 individuals in St. Lucie, Indian River, Martin, and Okeechobee Counties every year. The Dyer staff family understands the importance of the Inner Truth Project and wholeheartedly supports its mission to create a community free from gender violence and victim-blaming, where survivors are accepted, understood, and experience better mental and physical health.
In Indian River County, the Dyer Difference Award for July is all about technology and education, as the award assists Master’s Academy’s self-paced learning center and vocational technology program. Approximately 350 students at Master’s Academy will be able to learn new skills and work at their own pace because the Dyer Difference Award has helped to equip students with the technology they need to succeed in a fast-moving, tech-based society and workplace environment.
The Dyer Difference Award is all about celebrating the beauty and kindness in our midst. For the Dyer family and the members of the Dyer staff, the award and the $6,000 in donations made monthly between the St. Lucie and Indian River Counties are all about helping to make a positive difference in the community. For the recipients, it’s an acknowledgement of their tireless efforts to do the same and a much-needed financial boost to help further their missions. If you’d like to nominate a non-profit organization for the Dyer Difference Award, please visit www.dyerdifference.org or find Dyer Difference on Facebook.
In Photo: Thomas McGee, Brandon Reynolds, Rick Brewer, Jonathan Hardie, Lynda Carlson, Eden Tarpey, students : Nataniel Laluz Mathew Peacock
4th Annual Christmas in July Toy Drive a Success
In Photo: Major Deanne Jones, Kathy Span, Lori Baird and Judy Scott
Article by Wendy Voliva / Photos by MaryAnn Ketcham
Jensen Beach – The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary hosted its 4th Annual Christmas in July toy drive and fundraiser co-chaired by Judy Scott and Kathy Span at the Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House on Thursday, July 18, 2024. This sold-out island casual event raised over $7,500 and collected more than 300 toys for The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Christmas Assistance program.
Every child deserves to experience the joy of opening a gift on Christmas morning. With the love and support of the community, The Salvation Army Angel Tree program provides Christmas gifts to thousands of children on the Treasure Coast. Once a child has been registered and accepted as an Angel, their Christmas wish list is shared with donors in the community who purchase new clothing and toys. The gifts are distributed to the family and placed under their family's Christmas tree.
The Salvation Army of the Treasure Coast hopes to adopt over 1,900 children through the Angel Tree program this year. “We are so thankful for the Women’s Auxiliary and everyone who helped support this year's event. We are not only providing Christmas for these children, but we are also providing hope," said Major Deanne Jones. “In helping those in need, The Salvation Army is only as successful as those in our community that are willing to come alongside us and be a part of the lives of others.”
Registration for the Angel Tree program opens in October. For more information about the Angel Tree program and other Salvation Army services, visit salvationarmymartin.org or call 772-288-1471.
The Women’s Auxiliary group has supported local Salvation Army programs through fundraising and volunteer events for over twenty years. For membership information, please get in touch with the membership committee chair, Lori Baird, at 954-732-4729 or bairdlori21@yahoo.com.
For more information about the programs and services of the Salvation Army Martin, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee counties, visit salvationarmymartin.org. or call 772-288-1471.
In Photo: Major Deanne Jones, Caroline Timmann and Nita Denton
In Photo: Kathy & Charlie Stracuzzi
In Photo: Carolyn & Wayne Magdelena
In Photo: Caroline Timmann, Karen Dyess, Cheri Vancura, Nita Denton and Kristin Zenelovic
In Photo: Majors Nathan & Deanne Jones
In Photo: The Knit Wits- Brenda Auer, Lois DeCarlo, Sue Yarusso, Sharon Daniels, Elaine Conlin and Bonnie Haefele
Supporting Families The Impact of Hibiscus’ Parents as Teachers Program
Martin County - Hibiscus Children's Center has been a cornerstone of support for children and families for almost 40 years across the Treasure Coast. One of its standout initiatives is the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program. This essential service equips families with the resources and tools they need to create nurturing and stable homes for their children. Last year, PAT made a significant difference in the lives of 58 families across Martin and Okeechobee Counties.
PAT is a parent education and home-visiting program that plays a crucial role in guiding new parents. It focuses on teaching them essential skills to foster positive child development and prevent child maltreatment. The program is structured around four primary goals: Increasing parents' knowledge of early childhood development and improving their parenting practices; Providing early detection of developmental delays and health issues; Preventing child abuse and neglect; and Enhancing children's school readiness and overall success.
Jenna's story is a testament to the profound impact of the PAT program. A young mother of a one-year-old, Jenna was pregnant with her second child when she joined the program. Facing the challenges of raising two young children, she was not in school and was living with her family. However, her active participation in the PAT program marked a turning point. She utilized all the resources made available to her. Through the support and resources provided by PAT, Jenna enrolled in college, found employment, and eventually moved into her own apartment with her children. She expresses deep gratitude for the connections and support that transformed her life.
The PAT program has been pivotal in changing the lives of families and instilling hope for a brighter future. If you would like more information about the array of Hibiscus programs provided or to see how you can get involved to help children and families in our community, please visit us at: HibiscusChildrensCenter.org.
Contact: Tracy Savoia
VP, Marketing & Media Relations
Hibiscus Children's Center
House of Hope Awarded 3 Community Impact Grants from United Way of Martin County
In Photo: United Way President & CEO Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, House of Hope staffers Deidra Kinnaman, CEO Rob Ranieri and Amy Belisle, and United Way Board Chair-Elect Elliott Paul celebrate the 2024 Community Impact Awards to House of Hope.
Photo Credit: Sevin Bullwinkle Article by: Reilly Weidner - Firefly Group
Stuart – With more than 21,000 people depending on them for assistance every month, House of Hope gratefully accepted three 2024 Community Impact Grants awarded by the United Way of Martin County in June.
The three grants, totaling $110,750, will support Project HOPE, which offers an array of cost-free services including basic needs, case management, financial assistance, clothes closets, and referrals to other resources in the community that assists clients with developing plans to become financially independent and self-sustaining; Client Choice Pantries and Food Bank services, which provide individuals and families with dignified and efficient access to healthy and nutritious food and supports 30 other agencies in the area with food and supplies, all at no cost; and Centers for Enrichment, where individuals can take advantage of free classes and services focused on health and wellness, education, English literacy, career readiness, access to technology, and arts and culture.
In presenting the award, United Way of Martin County President and CEO Carol Houwaarts-Diez said of House of Hope, “Your dedication to empowering Martin County residents and addressing critical needs is game-changing.”
House of Hope has made its mark on the community not only with the number of people served but also the innovative ways it has created to meet its mission. “Food is vital,” said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri, “and we’re proud that we were able to support our community by distributing 1.3 million pounds of food last year. And that food is made more nutritious thanks to the fresh fruits and vegetables we produce on our Growing Hope Farm.”
“But it’s more than the food itself,” Ranieri continued. “It’s the many services we bring together to help our clients set goals for themselves and lay out plans that will lead them to a healthy, empowered future.”
This year the United Way awarded 38 community impact grants to 27 nonprofit agencies in Martin County, totaling $958,000. An addition $992,437 was allocated to support other local non-profit program services through direct designations and funding for the United Way's internal programs, including Leaders United, Students United, Ride United, Volunteer United, United Way Holiday Project, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA). That’s a total of $1,951,237 invested in the community in just one year. House of Hope has been a United Way partner since House of Hope was founded in 1984 and continues to work closely with the United Way leadership to address critical needs throughout Martin County.
House of Hope is now celebrating its 40th anniversary in a typical House of Hope way – by finding new opportunities to serve people in need. Currently, the staff is inviting the community to donate 40 items for its hurricane-preparedness pantry or 40 items for the school supply drive. “The needs are endless,” Ranieri said, “but fortunately so is the generosity of our community.”
To learn more about House of Hope or to make a donation, visit House of Hope’s website at www.hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673.
Treasure Coast Hospice Celebrates Great Place to Work Certification
Recognition Marks Fifth Year in a Row
Stuart – For the fifth consecutive year, Great Place to Work Institute and its senior care partner Activated Insights have recognized Treasure Coast Hospice with certification as a Great Place to Work. The certification process involved surveying 100% of employees from across the organization and evaluating more than 60 elements of team members’ experience on the job. These included employee pride in the organization’s community impact, belief that their work makes a difference, and feeling their work has special meaning. Rankings are based on employees’ experiences, no matter who they are or what they do.
“Being recognized as a Great Place to Work for the fifth consecutive year is an incredible honor,” said Treasure Coast Hospice President and CEO Jackie Kendrick, CHPCA. “This achievement is a testament to our team’s commitment to our mission, our patients and families, and each other, and it underscores the importance Treasure Coast Hospice places on fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for our staff.”
The recognition marks the fifth year in a row that Treasure Coast Hospice has been certified as a Great Place to Work. This year, 92% of staff members responding to the survey said that it is a great place to work compared to 57% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company.
According to the 2024 survey results, 98% of employees said they “feel welcomed” upon joining the team and 96% responded that their “work has special meaning.” Other reasons Treasure Coast Hospice was chosen as a top place to work were because staff rate the service delivered as excellent, are proud to tell others where they work and feel good about the ways the organization contributes to the community.
“We applaud Treasure Coast Hospice for seeking certification and publicly sharing its employees’ feedback,” said Dr. Jacquelyn Kung of Great Place to Work’s senior care partner Activated Insights. “These ratings measure its capacity to earn its own employees’ trust and create a great workplace for high performance.”
House of Hope Receives Grant from Mariner Sands Charity Week Fundraising Events
Stuart – House of Hope is the grateful beneficiary of Mariner Sands Golf and Country Club’s 2024 Charity Week, a week of events that Mariner Sands residents stage every year to raise funds for community nonprofits.
The $70,500 awarded to House of Hope will support Project HOPE: Helping Others Progress through Empowerment, which helps individuals and families to receive basic help like food and clothing, financial assistance for items like rent and utilities, and opportunities to change their lives and become self-sufficient.
The grant will also help to support House of Hope’s Centers for Enrichment, especially the programs at the KinDoo Center for Enrichment in Indiantown. Classes and programs at the Centers for Enrichment in Golden Gate, Jensen Beach and Indiantown include English as a Second Language, Kindergarten readiness, smoking cessation, homework help, art classes, and more.
“The number of our neighbors who need help continues to grow,” said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “This past year alone, we assisted 21,000 people, distributed almost 1.3 million pounds of food including fresh fruits and vegetables, welcomed 625 individuals to programs at the Centers for Enrichment, and reached 4,700 children and adults with nutrition education and gardening programs. That’s a huge undertaking, and we can only do it with the help of generous community members like the residents of Mariner Sands.”
"We are delighted to partner with the House of Hope and contribute to their impactful work within our community," said Jack Flanagan, President of Mariner Sands Charity Week. "This grant exemplifies our shared commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those in need here in Martin County"
House of Hope is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year by encouraging the community to think 40 – 40 items donated to help those in need of hurricane supplies, 40 school supplies for children in need, 40 items donated to the House of Hope Thrift Stores that benefit House of Hope programs, and contributions of any amount to keep House of Hope on the forefront of assisting and empowering Martin County residents trying to overcome hunger and hardship.
To learn more about House of Hope or to make a donation, visit House of Hope’s website at www.hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673.
CTWH is Forging Important Partnerships in the Community
In Photo: Board members of Human Trafficking Coalition of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee: Ali Hernandez, Mindi Fetterman, Karissa Bolden, Terry Burke, Carol Rodriguez, Libby Snider, and Sarah Marie Henry.
Article by: Jackie Holfelder / Photo provided by Catch the Wave of Hope
It’s been an active several months for Catch the Wave of Hope (CTWH) as the nonprofit continues to forge important relationships and collaborations in its mission to prevent the sexual exploitation and trafficking of children through awareness and education, while providing restoration to survivors.
CTWH has joined the SART team (Sexual Assault Response
Team) on the Treasure Coast, a part of the Sexual Assault
Assistance Program of the Treasure Coast. This team includes victim
advocates and other experts in the field.
SART is the first team to respond to sexual assault cases. It exists so that no survivor of sexual violence residing on the Treasure Coast or Okeechobee must go through crisis alone, regardless of age, circumstances, or their decision whether to involve law enforcement. The group is comprised of trained advocates, counselors, and administrators and all communications with staff are confidential.
CTWH is also now part of DCF’s (Department of Children and Families) Sex/Labor Trafficking MDT (Multidisciplinary Team). Sarah Marie Henry, Executive Director of the 501(c)(3), attends meetings at which all parties come together to discuss services, resources, and plans of actions to assist children affected by human trafficking.
Participants include DCF staff, investigators, case managers, therapists, Guardians ad Litem, and other related resources.
Catch the Wave of hope recently completed Certified Facilitator Training in the Monique Burr Foundation's “Child and Teen Safety Matters,” which is Florida Board of Education-Approved for Schools and meets the state’s mandate for Child Trafficking Prevention Education for students grades K-12.
And, importantly, CTWH is partnering with the Human Trafficking Coalition of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee, Circuit 19, to launch a Resource Listserv for both adult and child survivors of human trafficking. This listserv is an email-based resource that will be used to better identify survivor needs and continue to grow and strengthen partnership between agencies, Law Enforcement, FBI, victim advocates, mental health therapists, attorneys, and many more parties working in the community to meet needs of trafficking survivors.
Catch the Wave of Hope collaborates with other service providers to prevent the duplication of services and to fill gaps in services that are not currently available to survivors. We take a trauma-informed, survivor-centered approach to everything that we do and we build our organization based on feedback from the community and those we serve.
To learn more, visit www.catchthewaveofhope.org.
Council on Aging Martin Offering Circle of Safety for Loved Ones with Memory Issues
Stuart- It only takes a moment – a loved one with memory issues wanders away, and the panicked search begins. Sometimes the person is found quickly and returned safely – but not always.
The Council on Aging Martin County is offering a better way to help individuals with cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s and the families that love them.
The Circle of Safety Program provides SafetyNet bracelets to those in need. The bracelet is lightweight and worn around the ankle, where it stays in place and isn’t bothersome like a wrist bracelet. It stays on all the time. It’s waterproof. And it’s free.
“We see the heartbreak in families when a loved one wanders. When we were offered a grant from the WellMed Charitable Foundation for a program that really works and is cost-free for our families, Council on Aging jumped at it,” said Council on Aging Martin CEO Karen Ripper.
The bracelet uses the latest technology to help protect and locate individuals before they are hurt or lost or worse. The bracelet gives off a signal that is read by a special tracking system monitored by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff’s deputies are trained, certified and equipped with SafetyNet Search and Rescue receivers to act quickly in an emergency. The signal works even in densely wooded areas, buildings, shallow water, and areas where even GPS and cellular technology aren’t effective.
“With the Sheriff’s Office, the Council on Aging, and families working together,” Ripper said, “we can build a circle of safety and protection around our most vulnerable loved ones.”
Martin County residents can get enrollment information for the Circle of Safety Program by calling the Council on Aging Martin at 772-223-7800 or visiting its offices at the Kane Center, 900 SE Salerno Road in Stuart. More information is available at its website www.coamartin.org.
ARC Of the Treasure Coast Received $1 M in Critical Funding
Stuart – ARC of the Treasure Coast is pleased to announce it will receive $1 million in state funding to build the Therapeutic Intervention Program Center in Port St. Lucie. The appropriation is part of the new $116.5 billion budget recently approved by Governor Ron DeSantis. The new budget kicks in on July 1st.
T.I.P. (Therapeutic Intervention Program) is a special education program that uses a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet an individual’s emotional and behavioral needs. TIP allows therapists to look beyond a subject’s disabilities and create positive change through speech therapy, physical therapy, and problem-solving skills, just to name a few.
“This center and the TIP approach will be life changing for the children, adults and their families we work with on a daily basis,” said Keith Muniz, President and CEO of ARC of the Treasure Coast. “We are so thankful to Florida lawmakers and Governor DeSantis for their commitment to the disability community.”
A special thank you to Senator Gayle Harrell of Stuart and Rep. Dana Trabulsy of Fort Pierce for their relentless support of ARC of the Treasure Coast services and programs.
The next step will be to find a location for the center in Indian River County. Several possible sites are being considered.
Stuart Fire Rescue Maintains ISO 1 Rating
Stuart - The City of Stuart Fire Rescue Department has once again received a Class 1 Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO). An ISO 1 rating for a fire department is the highest possible rating given by the Insurance Services Office (ISO). The ISO evaluates fire departments and their communities based on their fire suppression capabilities and assigns a Public Protection Classification (PPC) score from 1 to 10, with 1 being the best.
A rating of 1 signifies that the fire department has superior fire protection services, which includes well-trained firefighters, excellent equipment, and effective emergency communications systems. This rating can benefit the community by potentially lowering property insurance premiums and demonstrating a high level of fire safety and preparedness.
How ISO Fire Ratings Impact Your Community
By classifying communities’ ability to suppress fires, ISO helps communities evaluate and improve their public fire protection services. The program also provides an objective, countrywide standard that helps fire departments plan and budget for facilities, equipment, and training.
In addition, this grading schedule plays an important role in the underwriting process at insurance companies. ISO documents state that most insurers — including the largest ones — use PPC information for underwriting and calculating premiums for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
City of Stuart Fire Rescue Fire Chief/Fire Marshal Vince Felicione explains, "We are evaluated every 5 years, and we received our initial rating of Class 1 in April 2019. Last week we were told that this year's re-evaluation we maintained our Class 1 rating."
As of recent data, there are approximately 400 fire departments in the United States that have achieved an ISO Class 1 rating. This prestigious rating is a testament to the department's excellence in training, equipment, response times, and overall fire prevention and suppression capabilities.
The City of Fort Pierce Partners with Forerunner for a New Floodplain Management Platform
Fort Pierce – The City of Fort Pierce is proud to announce a new partnership with Forerunner, a cutting-edge floodplain management platform that delivers actionable, property-level flood risk information. This collaboration aims to enhance the city's floodplain management, compliance, and community outreach efforts, providing a one-stop shop for nearly 50,000 residents to easily access vital flood risk information.
As part of this partnership, Fort Pierce will launch a new flood risk portal. This user-friendly tool is designed to make it simpler for residents, real estate and insurance professionals, developers, and others to access detailed flood risk information for individual properties. The portal will include building and insurance compliance requirements as well as elevation certificates.
“One of the best ways we can protect our community from flood damage is by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions and get prepared,” said Paul Thomas, Building Director for the City of Fort Pierce. “Although we are fortunate to not face category 5 hurricanes every year, we want to ensure we are ready if and when one comes our way.”
Fort Pierce faces the unique challenge of managing both coastal and riverine floodplains, along with heavy rainfall from coastal storms, tropical storms, and hurricanes. While the city hasn’t experienced a major hurricane event since Hurricane Wilma in 2005, it remains committed to prioritizing flood risk management both now and in the future.
“Keeping residents informed about flood risk and making resources easily accessible are some of the most impactful ways to increase resilience and mitigate damage,” said Susanna Pho, Co-Founder and COO of Forerunner. “We’re excited to support the Fort Pierce community in their public education efforts and in the exceptional floodplain management work they’re doing every day.”
Residents can learn more by visiting the new flood risk portal on the city’s website at https://cityoffortpierce.com/133/Flood-Protection.
The city’s floodplain management operations will be integrated into a new multi-functional tool that will provide residents with flood risk data and documentation for individual properties.
Contact Martin County to obtain information, request a service or report a concern – available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Request public records, report road or sidewalk damage, inquire about library holds and more! Requests are routed to the proper County department and, if desired, you can receive status updates or track the progress of your request.
The 2024 Dancing with the Martin Stars Line-Up Announced for the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition September 21
In Photo: Carol Briseno of Martin County Parks & Recreation and her dancing partner Jang Don walked away with top honors and the coveted trophy for highest combined scores in both dancing and fundraising for 2023
Stuart - With a burst of silver confetti, the 2024 Dancing with the Martin Stars contestants discovered on May 16 which local professional dancers will be their partners for this year’s dancing competition on September 21 to benefit the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition.
Nine volunteers from all walks of life have signed on to the challenge to dance like a star in a professionally choreographed performance, plus raise funds from supporters eager to cheer them on.
“If you’ve ever had to dance in front of a crowd that came with high expectations,” Martin County Healthy Start Coalition CEO Samantha Suffich said, “you know the courage and determination it takes. We’re so grateful that our 2024 Martin Stars are willing to take the stage to help in our mission to ensure that every baby is born healthy, every mother is supported, and every father is involved.”
This year’s Martin Stars lineup includes Christian Anderson, dancing with local professional Daisy Krakowiak-Wiebe; Casey Caplan, with Brian Spector; Lorna Day, with Angel R. Tamayo III; Matthew Durban, with Emily Matos; Jonathan Garich, with Tanya Chaves; Stephanie Martinez, with Michael Chaves; April Milner, with Bob Murray; Matthew Right, with Marianella Tobar; and Sue Whittington, with Jang Don.
Will it be a waltz, a cha-cha, a tango, or a foxtrot that takes them to victory? The answers will be revealed on September 21 at 7 pm at the Lyric Theatre in downtown Stuart.
Dancers will be judged on their performance and will also earn points for the funds they’ve raised in the quest to become the 2024 Champion. Last year’s event raised more than $200,000 for the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition mission. This year’s contestants are determined to beat that amount.
“If you have a favorite dancer, or just want to support the work of the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition,” Suffich says, “we encourage you to give them a vote of confidence on our website and to join us at the event in September. And just a word of warning, it always sells out!”
Sponsorships ranging from $600 to $20,000 are still available. For more information, visit https://www.mchealthystart.org/dancing-with-the-martin-stars/2024-stars-dancers/. Ticket sales begin in August.
Fort Pierce Transforms the New State of Our City Address into Digital Video Series
Fort Pierce – The City of Fort Pierce is excited to announce the transformation of the Annual State of Our City Address into a groundbreaking digital video series. This innovative approach aims to make the Address more accessible and engaging than ever before, allowing viewers to explore a range of topics and accomplishments at their own pace.
Traditionally a single event, the State of Our City Address will now be released as a series of video segments, each focusing on specific themes and highlights from the past year. From infrastructure updates to community initiatives, viewers can expect a dynamic experience that showcases the diverse facets of the City of Fort Pierce.
"By transitioning the State of Our City Address into a digital video series, we are opening up new avenues for engagement and interaction with our community," said Mayor Linda Hudson. “This format allows us to delve deeper into the achievements and initiatives of Fort Pierce while providing residents with the flexibility to explore topics of interest at their convenience."
The digital video series will be available for viewing on the City of Fort Pierce’s YouTube Channel, the City’s website, and its social media channels, ensuring broad accessibility across various online platforms. Each segment will feature interviews, visuals, and commentary from Mayor Hudson and City Commissioners offering unique insights into the city's progress and future direction.
Videos for the State of Our City Address will include:
Keep Fort Pierce Beautiful: Highlighting initiatives aimed at enhancing the city's aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability.
Parks and Recreation: Showcasing recreational spaces and programs that promote wellness and leisure activities for residents of all ages.
Fort Pierce Police Department: Providing an overview of the department's efforts to ensure public safety and foster positive community relations.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Relocation: Offering an update on the relocation project aimed at enhancing infrastructure efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Solid Waste Management: Discussing strategies for sustainable waste management practices and community engagement.
Youth Programs: Featuring programs and opportunities designed to empower the youth and nurture future leaders.
The Florida Highwayman Museum and History Center: Celebrating the rich cultural heritage preserved through institutions like the Florida Highwayman Museum.
Fort Pierce Animal Adoption Center: Highlighting efforts to promote animal welfare and responsible pet ownership within the community.
Affordable Housing: Addressing initiatives aimed at ensuring accessible housing options for residents.
Indian Hills Golf Course: Recognizing the recreational and economic contributions of the Indian Hills Golf Course to the community.
Fort Pierce City Marina: Showcasing developments and amenities offered by the Fort Pierce City Marina, a hub for boating enthusiasts and visitors alike.
Sunrise Theater: Celebrating the cultural significance of the Sunrise Theater as a premier entertainment venue in the heart of downtown Fort Pierce.
Be sure to watch the first installment of the State of Our City Address digital series, featuring Keeping Fort Pierce Beautiful, by visiting the 2024 State of Our City Address.
Stay tuned for more videos delving into Fort Pierce's achievements, objectives, and future plans. You can catch this video series on the City of Fort Pierce’s YouTube Channel, website, and social media platforms. For more information, please visit the City of Fort Pierce’s website at https://www.cityoffortpierce.com/.
Caribbean American Cultural Group and Frances-Marie Coke Launch When Banana Stains Fade – A Stunning Jamaican Family Saga
In Photo: Dr. Kimberley Lowe and Frances-Marie Coke
Article by Frances-Marie Coke, Photos by MaryAnn Ketcham
Port St. Lucie -The Holy Faith Episcopal Church Hall buzzed with anticipation and excitement last Friday as CACG and PSL author and educator Frances-Marie Coke collaborated for the second time on a book launch.
Members and friends of CACG, and the author, turned out in their numbers to hear readings and participate in discussions about the book’s characters and themes.
Opening the proceedings, Vice-President Neville Lake praised Coke’s contribution to CACG, an established non-profit organization serving the Treasure Coast through festivals, balls, and church services, as well as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and back-to-school events that benefit the community. CACG marks its 40th anniversary this year, and is especially proud of its annual Dr. Martin Luther King celebration and its flagship scholarship program, which has supported college-bound students to the tune of over $166,000 to date.
Attendees at the launch paid close attention to Coke’s reading of snippets from the book, partook in refreshments, had their purchases signed by the author, and shared lively comments about the novel and the event. They were especially pleased that part proceeds from all book sales will be contributed to CACG.
When Banana Stains Fade belongs in the hands of readers searching for authentic explorations of social inequities, distorted self-image, family conflicts, and the price of courting love’s impostors. According to the author, “I felt compelled to record the island’s beauty alongside its struggles, and to celebrate the resilient, courageous “Jamaican Family,” which despite being described as irreparably broken, remains the island’s backbone.”
Can faith and resilience overcome legacies of a dirt-poor banana field, flawed traditions, and family estrangement? Award-winning Jamaican-Canadian author Rachel Manley thinks so. “In a narrative that is hard to put down, Coke traces both a family’s story and the modern history of her island Jamaica, her message ultimately uplifting: ‘…her glorious little island prevails.”
Copies of When Banana Stains Fade are available from the author, at major booksellers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble (in paperback and e-book formats), and at the publisher’s website – https://www.blackrosewriting.com/
Frances-Marie Coke is a Jamaican educator living in Port St. Lucie. Her books include Intersections – an anthology of poems, and The Spirit of Clovelly Park her teacher’s memoir.
Learn more about her writing at https://www.francesmariecoke.com/ or reach her at 772-261-4067. Contact: PR Team pr@blackrosewriting.com
Readers can learn more about CACG at its website cacgpsl.org, at 772-834-2522, or by emailing cacginc1948@yahoo.com
In Photo: Michelle "Mush" Irons Emcee
In Photo: Colleen Ramharrack
In Photo: Standing - Michelle "Mush" Irons, Colleen Ramharrack, Carroll Buddle
Seated -Opal Sangster and Beverley Lambert
In Photo: Author Frances-Marie Coke and Ms. Lorraine Hunter
In Photo: Lindy Gough and CACG Vice-President Neville Lake
In Photo: France-Marie Coke's newest release, "When Banana Stains Fade."
In Photo: Ms. Marcia Allen, violionist
In Photo: Sitting- Paulette Crawford, Dorothy McFarlane, Jackie Gaynor, Mavis Brown, Carol Crosdale Standing-: Marvin Crawford
In Photo: Bennu Ra Hetep and Dennis Rookwood
In Photo: Gladstone Campbell
In Photo: Dr. Paulette Crawford and Ms. Dorothy McFarlane
COUNTY PROJECTS
County projects prioritized within the CIP include roads, bridges, wastewater and stormwater systems, and other projects that serve the public good and help ensure safe and thriving communities. CLICK HERE!
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Private developer projects found in the Proposed Developments map include residential, commercial and industrial applications which are currently under review or have been approved. CLICK HERE!