page 2 page 11 the pelican - hobe sound...a letter from the hobe sound chamber of commerce page 2 a...

A Letter from

the Hobe

Sound Chamber

of Commerce

PAGE 2

A New

Mural is Proudly

Revealed in

Hobe Sound!

PAGE 3

A BIG

Thank You

to Renewing

Chamber Members!

PAGE 11

Vol. 26 Issue 3 Aug-Oct 2017

Hobe Sound Chamber of CommerceP.O. Box 1507Hobe Sound, Florida 33475Phone (772) 546-4724Fax (772) 546-9969www.hobesound.org

PRESORTED STANDARD

US POSTAGE PAIDWEST PALM BEACH, FL

PERMIT NO. 1865

Supplement to theStuart News

Or Current Occupant

Hobe Sound Chamber ofCommerce Calendar

August, September, and October 2017

■ August Meetings ■

Wednesday, August 2ndAMBASSADORS MEETING

12:00pm at the Chamber Office

Tuesday, August 8th and 22ndHOBE SOUND TOASTMASTERS MEETING

7:00-9:00pm at Hobe Sound Bible College, Administrative Building, Herron Center, 2nd Floor,

11298 SE Gomez Avenue, Hobe SoundOpen to Chamber members and the publicCall 772-546-4724 for more information.

Monday, August 21stBOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING


■ August Events ■

Friday, August 4th, 11th and 25th SCORE COUNSELINGFree Business Consulting

Chamber Office 10:00am-1:00pmVisit www.treasurecoast.score.org

to schedule an appointment

Thursday, August 10thMONTHLY CHAMBER BREAKFAST

8:00-9:15am at Indian River State CollegeWolf High Tech Center, 2400 SE Salerno Rd, StuartGuest Speaker: Laurie Gaylord, Superintendent of

Martin County SchoolsSponsored by Glen Alexander, Strategic Realty

Catered by Berry Fresh CaféAdvance RSVP: $14 Members/$17 Non Members

No RSVP: $17 Members/$22 Non MembersNo Shows will be billed

Register at www.hobesound.org

Tuesday, August 15thNEW MEMBER ORIENTATION LUNCHEON

12:00-1:30pm at Hobe Sound Bible CollegeHerron Center, Administration Building, 2nd Floor

11298 SE Gomez Avenue, Hobe SoundSponsored by The Law Office Brandon Woodward


Wednesday, August 23rdNIBBLES & NETWORKING LUNCHEON,

SUCCESS ON THE MENUNoon-1:30pm at Fresh Catch Seafood Grill

1411 SE Indian Street, StuartSponsored by Dr. Lisa Grassam-Smith,

Grassam Spine & Wellness Center RSVP Required: $25/Register at www.hobesound.org

Thursday, August 24thGOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

8:30am-9:30am at the Chamber OfficeRSVP Required,

Seating is Limited, www.hobesound.org

Wednesday, August 30thCOCKTAILS & CONNECTIONS

5:30pm-6:30pm at Floridians Fighting Falls8965 SE Bridge Road, Ste. 9, Hobe Sound

Sponsored by: Smart Source Promotional Productsand Stuart Family Chiropractic and Acupuncture

$5 each attendeeRegister at www.hobesound.org

continued on page 10

www.hobesound.org

THE

PELICANPELICANThe Hobe Sound Chamber’s Government Affairs

Committee was organized in June in order to educatemembers on local and state legislative issues while cre-ating a mechanism for the Chamber to advocate for theinterests of business in government. The goal is to con-nect elected officials to the committee and encouragethe business community to take an active role in under-standing Government and how they may participate inthe legislative process. Local and state governmentalinfluences are largely affected by the input of the com-munity they serve. This committee will serve as a con-duit to exchange ideas and priorities between the HobeSound community we serve and those who represent usin the policy and decision-making process.

The development of the Government AffairsCommittee has been a priority project of our ExecutiveDirector, Angela Hoffman, for more than a year. Angelagathered some key members of the chamber and chal-lenged them to put their talents to work for all of us.There are eight voting members on the committee. Anyvoting tie is sent to the President of the Board ofDirectors for the tie-breaking vote. At the very first meet-ing an action item was taken up regarding whether thecommittee should recommend to the Chamber Board ofDirectors to support the Martin County One Cent Sales

Tax referendum. Thiscommittee went straightto work and quickly andefficiently sent aninformed advisory opin-ion to the ChamberBoard of Directors.

The scope of thecommittee is not limit-ed to local government,but also state and feder-al matters that mayaffect the livelihood ofour membership. Wehave reached out tolocal and state elected leaders who have all expressedinterest in being actively engaged in the process.Meetings are open to all members and are held on the4th Thursday of each month at the Chamber office,but please RSVP as space is limited.

You can read more about the Government AffairsCommittee by clicking on the Chamber website athttp://www.hobesound.org/. Click on the link for theChamber then Committees.

The Purpose and Development of the Hobe Sound Chamber ofCommerce Government Affairs CommitteeBy Jon Pasqualone, Government Affairs Committee, Co-Chair

Jon PasqualoneGovernment Affairs Committee,

Co-Chair

That’s right, whoo hoo,it’s almost time for the 5thAnnual Dine Around HobeSound- Progressive DinnerParty. This amazing eveningof extraordinary dining,camaraderie and fun isscheduled for Saturday,October 7th, from 5:30pmto 10:00pm!

Each year this old fash-ioned Progressive Dinnerreceives rave reviews fromthe sellout crowd who beginthe evening at the HobeSound Golf Club withcocktails, hors d’oeuvresand mingling sponsored byMarlene Filer for CelebritiesFore Kids. Following thepopular “balloon bust”where you can win special gifts, the guests will separateand proceed to one of the homes of “celebrity chefs” who

will host a special, themeddinner, each with uniquecuisine as the main course.After enjoying a deliciousmeal, all guests will travel toFlash Beach Grille for anafter party featuring dessertand a night cap.

Each volunteer “celebritychef” will be providing avariety of delicacies sure toplease anyone’s taste buds.Dinner hosts have promisedsuch themed dinners asBahamian Beach Party,Authentic Italian andMediterranean/Lebanese.Watch the website andNews You Can Use fordetails. Tickets are $65 perperson to include all 3

courses and should be purchased at the Chamber Office.

5th Annual Dine Around Hobe Sound—Progressive Dinner

continued on page 2

Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce2017 Board of Directors

OfficersPresident: Jonathan Milton, Milton EngineeringConsultantsPresident Elect: Doug Smith, Janus InvestigationsTreasurer: Tony Barletta, Brightway Insurance/BarlettaAgencySecretary: Nicole Townsley, Merritt Family ChiropracticPast President: Ike Crumpler, Upstairs CommunicationsHistorian: Ralph Davino, Secure Storage of Martin County

Board of DirectorsGlen Alexander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Strategic RealtyMike Bingman . . . . . . . . . .Bingman’s Painting ServiceMichael Dooley . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Illustrated PropertiesMichael Ennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ennis ConstructionMarlene Filer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Celebrities Fore KidsSteve Landwersiek . . . . . . .Landwersiek and Associates

Investment Planning GroupJan McDonald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .AMAC InsuranceTrudi Onus . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SeacoastBank - MortgagesScott Parsons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .One Source SolutionsTheresa Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Beaches Hair StudioBrandon Woodward . .Law Office of Brandon Woodward

2017 President’s CouncilTom Balling . . . . . .Treasure Coast Irrig/Rood LandscapeStacey Brandt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jupiter Medical CenterAmy Brunjes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Florida Power & LightBlake Capps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Capps RoofingJohn Carr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .JRC Consulting GroupIke Crumpler . .Upstairs Communications InternationalScott Fay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bridge Boat & RV StorageMarlene Filer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Celebrities Fore KidsMarc Gaylord . . . . . . .Law Office of Marc R. GaylordLeon Gonyo . . . . . . . . . . . .Stuart Family Chiropractic

& Acupuncture CenterPaul L. Kleinfeld . . .First Florida Dev. & ConstructionSteve Landwersiek . . . . . . .Landwersiek and Associates

Investment Planning GroupGary Lesser . . . . . . . . . .Lesser, Lesser, Landy & SmithCandace Lopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Skin Serenity SpaRob Lord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Martin Health SystemJason Lovelady . . . .Carpenter’s Roofing & Sheet MetalPete Morello . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The UPS StoreDerreck Ogden . . . . . . .Word of Mouth Comp. & Elect.Ron Orr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Leave A Legacy PlanningJeff Sabin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Waste ManagementGuyton Stone . . . . . . . . . . . .Guyton’s Custom DesignsKevin Staten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bank of AmericaJames Stedham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CostcoSue Stutzke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Nightingale Private Care

Ambassador CommitteeJanet Otten . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Director, Chamber StaffTheresa Smith, Beaches Hair Studio . .Committee ChairMelissa Davis, ServPro of Martin County . .Vice ChairLinda Wolf, ActiveCanvas Interactive Media . .SecretaryBill Brown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Glory AssociationCandace Lopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Skin Serenity SpaNancy Ferraro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ferraro LawShelly Gonyo . . . . . . . . . . .Stuart Family Chiropractic

& Acupuncture CenterGeorge Kleine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Smart SourceJan McDonald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .AMAC InsuranceSharyl Pratt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Illustrated PropertiesAmber Shirk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SeacoastBankKim Toth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Edward Jones

StaffAngela Hoffman, Executive Director

Janet Otten, Director of Member ServicesMary Palczer, Bookkeeper/Office Manager

VolunteersJudy Arbeznik, Carol Branch, Marge Cabaniss, Bonnie

Colonnese, Lois & Al Dillaire, Bette Evans, BarbaraGomez, Suzan Hughes, Lillian Johnson, Mary FrancesJordan, Bobbi Kauffman, George Kleine, Jeanne Nash,

Richard Nash, Rich Otten, Carol Stewart, & Jean Tierney

The Hobe Sound Pelican is published quarterly by theHobe Sound Chamber of Commerce

11954 SE Dixie, Hobe Sound, FL 33455772-546-4724

Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9:30am-3:30pm

Managing Editor:Janet Otten, Director of Member Services

Production:Theresa Dormi, Point Break, Inc.

Hobe Sound Pelican www.hobesound.org

Tickets will be available September 4th. “This event is extremely popular and tickets sell out

quickly,” said Nicole Townsley, Committee Chair andmember of the Board of Directors. “With the amazingand incredible menus planned by the various chefs, youwill experience a great dinner, make new friends and geta chance to visit a local country club and restaurant.” Shecontinued, “We have found over the past 4 years of host-ing this event that due to the personal nature of invitingfellow chamber members into our homes and showcasingarea restaurants, guests enjoy an extraordinarily personalevening solidifying chamber relationships and creating awarm and friendly sense of community. This is truly anight to remember, don’t miss it!” Order your ticketsearly so that you enjoy the cuisine you most like.

Dine Around Hobe SoundContinued from page 1

A Letter from the Hobe Sound ChamberThey say only two things in life are certain – death

and taxes, and we don’t know many people who are veryexcited about either one.

This fact was on our minds when we voted recently ata Hobe Sound Chamber Board of Directors meeting tosupport passage of Martin County’s proposed one-per-cent sales tax.

How did we come to this conclusion? We vetted thesales tax proposal from different perspectives. First, ournewly formed Governmental Affairs Committee, com-posed of several members representing a broad cross-sec-tion of industries and small businesses, weighed the issue.We also hosted County Commissioner Harold Jenkinsfor an informative discussion on the topic.

Commissioner Jenkins had recently initiated a success-ful motion during a commission meeting to limit the listof county projects identified to receive sales-tax fundingto strict essentials:

• Water quality• Infrastructure (including roads, public safety and

public buildings)This focus on the fundamentals was helpful. The Hobe Sound Chamber is overwhelmingly com-

prised of small-business owners. Running a small busi-ness commands several essentials, but chief among themis fiscal discipline (as well as endless effort and contagiousoptimism).

We rightfully expect fiscal discipline from our electedofficials. But rarely, outside of our vote during electionseason, do we have anything substantial to bargain within order to achieve it. The moment, however, presents uswith a rare exception. Right now, there is a 5.9 percentfee on our monthly FPL bills that goes directly to thecounty to address its infrastructure needs (generatingabout $9 million a year, as opposed to the sales tax, whichwould raise $23 million annually).

In a single vote, three county commissioners candrop that 5.9 percent fee down to less than a half-per-cent. We want to see this relief take place. In our sup-port for the sales tax, we’ve joined the growing chorusof other civic organizations supporting it, on account

of a drop in the franchise fee. The sales tax offers a practical advantage. It collects

revenue from the broadest number of contributors,including out-of-town residents visiting the area.Without it, the county relies heavily on property taxes,which can mean property-tax increases. Again, we’vejoined other organizations in calling for the county torefrain from ad-valorem tax increases for at least two yearsif the sales tax passes.

Finally, we talked about the optimism of small busi-ness owners. That is a genuine quality, but it doesn’t makeus naïve. We understand that as citizens of this amazingcountry and community, we have a sacred responsibilityto remain active and engaged in how local governmenthandles the resources we entrust them with. We will con-tinue to monitor county policies and spending and keepyou informed, and we certainly welcome and appreciatedoing the same.

Thank you for all you do for the Hobe SoundChamber and the Hobe Sound Community.


Community News

Stars and Stripes WaveProudly in Hobe Sound

The public was invited to celebrate Flag Day withthe artists and revel in the glory of the 30-foot flagmural at local AMVETS Post #14. The Hobe SoundMurals project continues to create a sense of placealong Hobe Sound’s main corridors with the newestmural, titled “Stars and Stripes.” Hobe Sound Mural#22 unfurls majestically with a 30-foot x 15-foot paint-ed American Flag and Bald Eagle imagery along thesouth wall of the AMVETS Post #14 at the corner of10450 SE Dixie Highway and Rohl Way. It is the 7thmural in the project to pop up along Dixie Hwy.

AMVETS, also known as American Veterans, is thelargest and oldest veterans service organization open toall veterans and their families. Their mission is “toenhance and safeguard the entitlements for allAmerican Veterans who have served honorably and toimprove the quality of life for them, their families, andthe communities where they live through leadership,advocacy and services.”

Local AMVETS First Trustee Danny Robinson, ini-tiated the idea for the mural with artist, Nadia Utto.

“I’m delighted to sponsor this mural to honor ourlocal chapter and members, and to celebrate the 18thanniversary of the post at its present location. The flagand bald eagle represent the ideas and values that everyveteran carries with them and we are so proud to havethem on our wall for all those who pass by to see.”

As is custom, Hobe Sound Mural Project coordina-tor, Nadia Utto invites area artists to contribute to themural projects. Jennifer Chaparro is the featured con-tributing artist for “Stars and Stripes.” Jennifer is anaccomplished painter, chalk artist, head ofAmazingStreetPainting and the non-profitInternational Street Painting Society, Inc. She is also theCommunications and Outreach Coordinator for theLighthouse ArtCenter in Tequesta. She has been invitedto create temporary and permanent works throughoutthe country and around the world. Most recently shewon the highly competitive People’s Choice award atthe Local Showdown within the 2016 CANVAS out-door Museum Show in West Palm Beach.

The Mural process began June 1st and wrapped upwith an artist meet and greet on-site, Flag Day,Wednesday June, 14th at 6:00pm. The public wasinvited to stay and enjoy a drink and appetizer withmembers at the Post.

Thanks to Benjamin Moore/Regal Paints in HobeSound for the donation of red, white, and blue paint.

Hobe Sound Murals began transforming the townwith creative murals in 2009, with the mission of“Creating an outdoor gallery of beautiful walls, honor-ing our past, present vitality, and future promise.”

This past fall, the Arts Council of Martin Countyhonored the entire Hobe Sound Murals project with itsSpecial Recognition Award at the 2016 mARTies event!

Hobe Sound Murals is one of the 21 towns thathave been designated to be part of the newly formedFlorida Mural Trail.

Hobe Sound Murals is a project of Landmark Arts,Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to “CreatingCommunity Culture.” For project information, contactNadia Utto at 561-762-9202, by email: [email protected], or visit www.landmarkarts.us.

Reduced Vessel RegistrationFees Effective July 1, 2017

Ruth “Ski” Pietruszewski, Martin County TaxCollector would like to make vessel-owners aware ofthe new fee reduction legislation, F.S. 328.72 (18)(b),which provides for reduced vessel registration fees fora recreational vessel that is equipped with a registeredEmergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon(EPIRB) or for a recreational vessel when the ownerowns a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB.)

Effective July 1, 2017 registration fees have beenreduced on vessels that have Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or Vessel ownersthat have Personal Locator Beacons (PLB's). If the pri-mary registrant owns more than one vessel that isequipped with an EPIRB, they will receive the reducedregistration fees for each vessel that is proven to have aregistered beacon with the NOAA. For the primaryregistrant who owns a PLB that is registered withNOAA, you are only allowed one fee reduction, nomatter how many vessels you own.

For registering your beacons please click the linkprovided for the NOAA at https://beaconregistration.noaa.gov/RGDB/index or call 888-212-7283 formore information.

Martin County SchoolDistrict’s School GradesAnnounced – Top Ten in State

Recently, the Florida Department of Educationreleased school grades. Since 1999, Florida has usedschool grades to communicate how well a school isperforming relative to state standards.

Overall, seven schools increased one letter grade,including all of the traditional high schools. CrystalLake Elementary increased by two letter grades earningan “A”. The District earned an “A” grade, and is in thetop ten highest scoring school districts in the state.

“I am proud of the work that our teachers, staff andadministrators are doing to impact student learning,”said Superintendent Laurie J. Gaylord. “With tremen-dous gains at the majority of our schools, we have

much to celebrate. I am delighted of the work beingdone in the Martin County School District, educatingall students for success,” she said.

Martin County School District School Grades 2016-17 2015-16Elementary Schools Bessey Creek Elementary A ACitrus Grove Elementary A ACrystal Lake Elementary A CFelix A. Williams Elementary A BHobe Sound Elementary B CJensen Beach Elementary B BJ.D. Parker Elementary C CPalm City Elementary A APinewood Elementary B BPort Salerno Elementary C CSeaWind Elementary B CWarfield Elementary B CMiddle SchoolsDr. David L. Anderson Middle B BHidden Oaks Middle A AIndiantown Middle C CMurray Middle B BStuart Middle A A High SchoolsClark Advanced Learning Center A AJensen Beach High School A BMartin County High School B CSouth Fork High School B C

More information on school grades can be found at:http://schoolgrades.fldoe.org/.

The Martin County School District (MCSD, anAcademically High-Performing School District inFlorida since 2004, is fully accredited by AdvancED,the parent organization of the Southern Association ofColleges and Schools Council on Accreditation andSchool Improvement. More information about MCSDcan be found online at www.martinschools.org.

Heartfelt Thanks to All WhoParticipated

The Treasure Coast showed its generosity in a big wayduring the 25th Annual National Association of LetterCarriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on May 13th.

More than 200 volunteers helped sort and deliver263,000 pounds of food to Treasure Coast Food Bank -enough for more than 219,000 meals! That’s a record thatcontinues to grow each year and means an additional12,000 meals over last year for people in Indian River,Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties.

Thank you to Walmart Distribution Center in FortPierce for providing trailers to collect food at three of thesites, and Move for Hunger, Coastal Van Lines, andWhite Glove Moving & Storage for helping to collectfood that has continued to come in. And a special thanksto all Treasure Coast residents who filled a bag with food.Treasure Coast Food Bank applauds the NationalAssociation of Letter Carriers who work so hard each yearto make Stamp Out Hunger possible.

Photo ProvidedThe new mural is revealed at the local AMVETS Post #14 at the cornerof 10450 SE Dixie Highway and Rohl Way in Hobe Sound.

PUT

YOUR

$$

WHERE

YOUR

♥ISHobe Sound, FL 33475

772.546.2292License EC13001299

Celebrating 50 Years

of Quality Service!

•Residential•Service Calls•Commercial•Generators

www.hobesound.org

Local Author’s InspiringNew Book Now Availableon Amazon.com

Nathaniel Reed, former Assistant Secretary ofInterior, shares memories of events that helpedshape this nation's environmental laws during aperiod of environmental renaissance. Reed’s careerhas been based on deeply-held principles thatreflect his love of nature, but his success has comefrom solutions that require bipartisan support.Anyone who wants to see a path forward for envi-ronmentalism should understand how the trail gotcut in the first place, and Reed shares those behind-the-scenes stories. His new book, Travels on theGreen Highway: An Environmentalist’s Journey, tellsthe how and the why, and it’s a fun read. His inspir-ing life story should energize anyone who caresabout the air we breathe, the water we drink andthe planet we share. Available on Amazon.com.

Photo ProvidedNathaniel Reed

Community Leaders Honoredfor Their Work on LocalTobacco Prevention Issues

On May 18, the Tobacco Free Partnership of MartinCounty presented their annual Tobacco PreventionAwards to local community leaders at the organiza-tion’s quarterly meeting.

The Tobacco Prevention Awards are presented eachyear to groups or individuals who have made an excep-tional contribution towards the goals of the TobaccoFree Partnership.

Sandhill Cove was recognized for their successfulimplementation of tobacco free workplace and residen-cy policy. They adopted a tobacco free grounds policyin early 2017 and have seen a positive response fromboth their residents and employees.

Shannon Nazzal was recognized for her efforts inaiding youth sports leagues throughout Martin Countyin their adoption of tobacco free policies. As a result,many leagues in the county voluntarily went tobaccofree, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke for theiryoung athletes.

Jennifer Ahern of Children’s Services Council wasrecognized for her advocacy efforts to reduce tobaccomarketing at the point of sale. Her work helped tocounteract the efforts of the tobacco industry to targetyouth in Martin County with advertisements andproduct placement.

Each year, the QuitDoc Foundation Partners withWSTU-AM for a tobacco prevention PSA Contest.Mike Thomas of WSTU-AM was awarded MediaPartner of the Year for his hard work and dedication tothe success of the annual contest.

Paul Nicoletti, City Manager at the City of Stuart,was recognized with a Partner of the Year award uponthe occasion of his retirement for his countless effortsto strengthen tobacco free social norms at the City ofStuart and his work on policies, such as the City ofStuart’s ordinance banning electronic cigarettes frompublic indoor spaces.

Community News

Photo ProvidedKim Nash and Dr. Barry Hummel of Quit Doc Foundation presentJennifer Ahern (center) of the Children’s Services Council with award.

Each year, The Tobacco Free Partnership recognizeskey leaders from the Students Working AgainstTobacco (SWAT) Program. This year, OutstandingYouth of the Year awards were presented to RoseRooney of Stuart Middle School, Elliott Steward ofMurray Middle School, Ignacio Valdez of MartinCounty High School, Dominique Jadusingh of SouthFork High School, Mairead Brady of Jensen BeachHigh School, Leah Hebden of the YMCA and AristoOnassis of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County.

Michael Williams, the SWAT Advisor from the Boys& Girls Clubs of Martin County, was named theSWAT Advisor of the Year. Williams has one of themost active SWAT Clubs in Martin County, and hastraveled with his clubs to SWAT trainings throughoutthe state.

Murray Middle School and Stuart Middle Schooltied for this year’s SWAT Club of the Year. Both clubsparticipated in outreach efforts throughout MartinCounty this year, participating in events like the HobeSound Christmas Parade and the Martin County Fair,in addition to raising awareness of anti-tobacco socialnorms among middle school students with several edu-cational projects throughout each campus.

The work of the Tobacco Free Partnership wouldnot be possible without the support and the effort of allof its members. This year’s award winners once againdemonstrated a special commitment to tobacco pre-vention that is continuing to make a positive differencein Martin County.

For more information on the work of the TobaccoFree Partnership, or to become a member, contact KimNash at [email protected], or visit tfp-martin.org.

Shelter Pups & Coffee CupsDebuts at Palm CityStarbucks

The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast haskicked off a new program called “Shelter Pups andCoffee Cups!” in partnership with Starbucks in PalmCity. Each Thursday, a volunteer picks up one of theshelter’s adoptable dogs and takes the pet to Starbucksfrom 9:30am until 10:15am. A Starbucks employeetreats the dog to a “Puppuccino.”

“Puppuccinos are basically just whipped cream in acup and the best part is that it’s free of charge,” said

Sarah Fisher, the Humane Society’s volunteer pro-gram manager and mobile adoption coordinator.

In addition, each shelter dog taken to Starbuckswill be the featured dog of the week and the pet’sadoption information will be displayed on theStarbucks’ bulletin board.

“This program is just one additional way toincrease our shelter dogs’ chances of getting adoptedand into their forever home,” explained Fisher. “Weare grateful for Starbucks’ support.”

The participating volunteers include Shaun Kelly,Jennifer Renfro, Paige Trenchard and LisaCirminiello. All of these volunteers are trained tocomplete an adoption so customers can adopt rightfrom Starbucks and bring the dog home if it is agood fit.

Volunteers who are interested in participating inthe program should contact Sarah Fisher via email [email protected] or by calling her at 772-600-3217.

Since 1955, the Humane Society of the TreasureCoast, 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave. in Palm City,has been the leading advocate for homeless, abusedand abandoned animals in Martin County.

The HSTC provides the Treasure Coast’s mostprogressive spay-neuter and adoption programs anddynamic humane education services. The HSTC haslong had partnerships with like-minded organiza-tions. The HSTC does not euthanize to make spaceat its shelter, there are no time limits on how longanimals stay in its care, and no companion animal isturned away for any reason.

For more information, visit http://www.hstc1.orgor call 772-223-8822.

Photo ProvidedWill Guizerix, a barista at the Starbucks in Palm City, and ShaunKelly, a volunteer with the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast,watch Ace, a shelter dog, gulp down his first puppuccino.

Help-U-Sell Treasure CoastRoberta Pickens5213 SE Inkwood Way, Hobe Sound, FL 33455772-286-9996www.helpuselltc.comBusiness Classification: Real EstateOrganization Description: Help-U-Sell is a differentkind of real estate company and they are pleased tobring it to the Treasure Coast. Their fresh approachbusiness model takes advantage of the technologyadvances of the last few years allowing them to be ableto charge differently for their services. Instead of a bigpercentage based on the sales price of your home, theycharge a low set fee that saves their clients thousandsover what a percentage-based commission model wouldcost. They provide a premium full-service program soyou sacrifice nothing while saving substantially. Theyhave dedicated Buyers Agents whose only job is to findtheir buyers the perfect home. Buyer and Seller bothbenefit from their different approach to real estate. Calltoday to find out how they can Help-U-Sell!

Jupiter Island ManagementLouie Morell11930 SE Shell Avenue, Hobe Sound, FL 33455772-932-7507www.jiemfl.comBusiness Classification: Property Management/HomeWatchOrganization Description: Jupiter Island EstateManagement offers comprehensive management ofluxury real estate. Specializing in owner's representa-tion and private estate management. Their qualifiedteam of professionals oversee your home's day-to-dayactivities 24/7. Their customized services include yearround maintenance, interior and exterior propertychecks, housekeeping and administrative services.

Liz McKinley Photo & DesignLiz McKinley48 Rio Vista Drive, Stuart, FL 34996772-463-7710www.lizmckinley.comBusiness Classification: PhotographersOrganization Description: Liz McKinley Photo &Design offers a variety of services.Liz has a degree in Graphic Design, specializing inprint media such as brochures, ads, logos, programs,postcards, etc. As a Photographer, Liz specializes inevent photography, candids, portraiture and also pro-vides virtual tours for realtors and businesses for onlinemarketing. She is also the Society Editor of StuartMagazine. "I am grateful everyday for my line of workwhich is not only enjoyable, but gives me the opportu-nity to interact with so many people along the way.”Liz is always personable and professional.

New Wave RealtyMartin P. Brown4285 SW Martin Highway, Palm City, FL 34990772-266-8591www.martinbrownrealtor.comBusiness Classification: Real EstateOrganization Description: As a Realtor with NewWave Realty, that has been servicing Martin Countysince 1987, Martin Brown will assist you with buying,selling or finding investment properties with honestyand integrity. Marty has 10 years of Hobe Sound liv-ing experience and he has been providing free SCOREbusiness counseling to small business owners in thecommunity for 14 years. He has a 40-year marketingsales background enabling him to be in a unique posi-tion to assist with your real estate needs.

Hobe Sound Pelicanwww.hobesound.org

Welcome New Members:Abaco PoolsChristine Morell11930 SE Shell AvenueHobe Sound, FL 33455772-402-5032www.abacopools.comBusiness Classification; Pools Maintenance, Repair andSupplyOrganization Description: Abaco Pools manages all ofyour pool service needs: cleaning, maintenance, repairsand remodeling. They are dedicated to exceeding theircustomers' expectations and have a strong team of indi-viduals who are all proficient in their area of expertise.Their company is passionate about what they do andtheir teams dedication reflects in its customer serviceand job performance.

Berenguer PeriodonticsGaston Berenguer, DMD969 S Federal Highway #201Stuart, FL 34994772-288-4444Business Classification: DentistsOrganization Description: Since 2005, Dr. GastonBerenguer has provided the highest quality dental careavailable in this area. He is originally from SouthFlorida and an officer in the United State Army. Heearned his undergraduate degree in Biology fromFlorida State University and his dental (D.M.D.)degree from the University of Florida. He is BoardCertified by the American Board of Periodontology.As an experienced clinician in the field of cosmeticperiodontology and dental implantology, he has both arecognized specialty certificate and a master degree inperiodontics. Dr. Berenguer will work with all dentistsin the Treasure Coast, North Palm Beach and beyondas a team member to plan and treat your comprehen-sive dental needs.

Casa Del VinoSilvia Mininni11330 SE Federal Highway, Hobe Sound, FL 33455772-675-2228Business Classification: Retail SalesOrganization Description: Casa Del Vino is a smallwine shop located in Hobe Sound, FL. Stocked exclu-sively with Biodynamic, Organic and Sustainablygrown wines. Their selection focuses in Italian, Frenchand Domestic family estates. They are passionate indiscovering small hidden gems; their selection is dom-inated by food friendly wines. Wines that are terroirdriven, which deliver a sense of place. They are pas-sionate about the people behind these wines and theirstories. There's no snobbery here, just some good old-fashioned wine geekery. “A perfect place to start a loveaffair with wine."

Ferraro LawNancy Ferraro11450 SE Dixie Highway, Hobe Sound, FL 33455732-266-7159Business Classification: AttorneysOrganization Description: Nancy Ferraro is proud toannounce the formation of the Ferraro Law firm. Themission of Ferraro Law is to assist clients in estate plan-ning, probate and wills matters, as well as general fam-ily law issues. To explain the law in understandableterms and make the law accessible to everyone is themain goal of Ferraro Law.

Pinnacle Lighting GroupGeorge Winterling4279 Roswell Road, Ste 208, Atlanta, GA 30342Local: 1517 SW Balmoral TraceStuart, FL 34997561-762-5800www.pinnaclelightinggroup.comBusiness Classification: Landscape & IrrigationServicesOrganization Description: Since their founding in 2000,Pinnacle Lighting Group has specialized in providingspectacular outdoor lighting that dramatically increases aproperty’s splendor, safety, and visibility long after thesun has set. Whether you’re interested in accentuating thearchways and columns of your estate with splashes oflight, or you long to bask in the beauty of a moonlitevening night after night, they offer outdoor lightingsolutions to suit any property or purpose. PinnacleLighting will plan and install exterior lighting systemswhile keeping two key functions in mind: optimizing thebeauty of your property and improving its safety andsecurity. They cater to homeowners, architects, landscapearchitects, interior designers, home builders and remod-elers, and landscape contractors. PLG uses the latesttechnology and innovative lighting design concepts.

Re/Max of Stuart – Dawn Van Dyke, LLCDawn Van Dyke729 SW Federal Highway #100, Stuart, FL 34994772-245-6611www.movetothetreasurecoast.comBusiness Classification: Real Estate

Robin Campbell, Keller Williams Realty, JupiterRobin Campbell4455 Military Trail, Ste. 100, Jupiter, FL 33458561-352-6393www.robincampbell.yourkwagent.comBusiness Classification: Real EstateOrganization Description: Robin Campbell, KellerWilliams Realty of Jupiter has been serving Martin andPalm Beach Counties since 2011. All clients receive acomprehensive consultation to ensure success in satisfy-ing each client's real estate needs. Whether it is the per-fect residential home, vacation home, investment prop-erty, or vacant land, Robin Campbell, Keller WilliamsRealty of Jupiter will serve with utmost integrity.


Local Law Firm is U.S. Newsand World Report’s Best LawFirm of 2017By Angel Adams

There are not many personal injury law firms that cansay they have been in business for 90 years and havenever formally advertised. A member of Hobe SoundChamber of Commerce President’s Council, ManagingPartner Gary S. Lesser is the third generation to leadLesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith.

In today’s ad-driven society, we wanted to know howGary’s firm has done it. “My grandfather Joseph Lesserstarted the firm in 1927 with a simple mission of help-ing our clients and the community. We still live by thatmission today.”

The firm has had a resurgence since Gary took over in1992. “When I joined the firm, it was my father and Iwith a part-time secretary,” said Lesser. Twenty-five yearslater, the firm has three locations, including one inStuart, with ten attorneys who work directly on cases andcommunicate with their clients on a regular basis. Thefirm focuses on personal injury cases and gets its work byreferral and ‘word of mouth.’ They have secured largeverdicts and settlements, with over 265 years of com-bined experience.

Community is another major ingredient that has keptLesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith growing all these years. Inhonor of their 90th anniversary, the firm’s entire staffpledged to give back 3,000 service hours to the commu-nity. Locally, Partner Chad Hasting was recently namedas the new Chair for the United Way of Martin County.Attorney Josh Ferraro, a Martin County native, helpedto found and is serving as President of the new MartinCounty P.A.L. (Police Athletic League) Association andcurrently serves as vice-president of Keep Martin CountyBeautiful. Earlier this year, Stuart Mayor Tom Campenni

Business Briefs

Photo ProvidedAttorneys Gary Lesser (left), Tom Campenni, Mayor of the City ofStuart, and Chad Hastings (far right) earlier this year acceptingProclamation celebrating Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith’s 90thAnniversary.

PUT

YOUR

$$

WHERE

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presented the firm with a Proclamation celebratingLesser, Lesser Landy & Smith’s 90th Anniversary.

The legal community has also recognized the firmwith some prestigious legal honors such as U.S. Newsand World Report’s Best Law Firm for 2017. The threenamed partners - Gary Lesser, Joe Landy & MickeySmith - were all awarded Super Lawyer status. GaryLesser and Partner Chad Hastings were again awardedFlorida Trend’s Legal Elite status, and Partner Joe Landywas recently named Top 10 Nursing Home Trial Lawyersin Florida for his ethical, professional and legal represen-tation of nursing home abuse cases.

“It is about working hard for our clients and caring forour community that has helped keep our firm in businessfor over 90 years,” said Gary Lesser.

For more information, please contact Lesser, Lesser,Landy & Smith, PLLC located at 615 SW St. LucieCrescent, Ste. 107, Stuart, FL 34994. Telephone: 772-283-6839 and web site: www.lesserlawfirm.com.

Bank of America SupportsBetter Nutrition and Healthfor Martin County Residents

House of Hope has received a $5,000 grant awardfrom Bank of America to support the agency’s four ClientChoice pantries and three nutrition gardens which serveMartin County residents.

Bank of America’s generous support will assist Houseof Hope’s pantries in procuring nutritious food for theirclients as well as growing and harvesting produce fromtheir nutrition gardens. With the completion a newClean Room, the organization is also able to prepare,flash freeze and package fresh produce to store and dis-tribute year-round. These efforts will enable House ofHope to offer a variety of healthy offerings at their ClientChoice pantries.

Feeding America reports that 13.3 percent of MartinCounty is food insecure which comprises 19,980 localresidents, 3,996 of which are children. With a direct cor-relation between this population and obesity relatedchronic illnesses, House of Hope has prioritized nutritioneducation and healthier food choices in its distribution ofthousands of pounds of food each month to householdswho otherwise struggle to access a balanced diet.

Founded in 1984, House of Hope now touches thelives of about 6,000 per month with services that includebasic needs -- food, clothing, furniture, financial assis-tance -- and long-term case management that helps peo-ple build life skills for a more self-sufficient future. Theagency has service centers and thrift stores in Stuart,

Photo ProvidedLeft to Right: Steve Kowalski, Merril Lynch senior resident director;Christine Delvechio, Merril Lynch financial advisor; Elaine Clem,Bank of America mortgage broker; Rob Ranieri, CEO of House ofHope; Doug Sherman, Bank of America market executive; MarucaDiego, Bank of America vice president and financial manager; andTammy Matthew, Bank of America business banker.

Hobe Sound, Indiantown and Jensen Beach. For more information about House of Hope, visit

hohmartin.org or schedule a tour 772-286-4673.

Firefly Group Named “2017Best Places to Work in MartinCounty”Award-winning public relations firmrecognized for third time as a bestplace to work

Measured against 37 standards for an excellent workingenvironment, the Firefly Group, a Florida-based publicrelations and marketing firm serving clients throughoutthe country, has received the coveted 2017 Best Placesto Work in Martin County award from CareerSourceResearch Coast.

“When I founded Firefly in 2003, my vision was tocreate a work environment where people could enjoythemselves and be more informal - but also produce greatresults for clients,” explained Stacy Ranieri, founder,president and Chief Illuminator of the Firefly Group.“Most workers spend more time at their places ofemployment with their co-workers than they do in theirown homes with their families. So I think it’s importantto be able to wake up every day and look forward togoing to work, to walking into a nurturing and positiveenvironment. That’s what we have at Firefly. It’s a high-energy place where we work on some very intense, cre-ative and strategic client projects and activities but wealso take time to have fun and don’t take ourselves tooseriously,” added Ranieri.

Criteria for determining the Best Places to Workincluded an evaluation of turnover rates, growth of theworkforce, opportunities for promotion, investment inemployee training, benefits and more intangible perks.Some of Firefly’s added-value activities for employeesinclude complimentary breakfast every Friday, birthdaylunches and flexible work schedules.

The Firefly Group is a three-time recipient of theBest Places to Work award, having also been recognizedin 2011 and 2012. The staff, affectionately known as“fireflies,” range in age from Millennials to Boomers,with nearly 100 years of collective experience in publicrelations, marketing and event management, and adiverse client base that includes business of all sizes,large landowners, government agencies and many non-profit organizations.

Founded in 2003, the Firefly Group is the largest, full-service public relations and marketing firm on theTreasure Coast with a diverse client base that includesbusinesses of all sizes and industries as well as non-profitorganizations and government entities. Firefly has beenrecognized with more than 80 awards from regional andstate-wide public relations and advertising associations.The firm provides comprehensive, strategic and creativesolutions for it clients. From branding, logo and websitedevelopment to marketing communication materials andspecial events to media relations and full-scale public rela-tions campaigns, Firefly uses creative storytelling and thebest tools and tactics to help their clients successfullyachieve their goals and reach their target audiences. Formore info about the Firefly Group go to www.fireflyfory-ou.com or connect with Firefly on Facebook at/TheFireflyGroup or on Twitter at @FireflyGroupPR.

Photo Provided(From left) Pat Austin, Megan Morris (who was there in spirit), MelissaZolla, Tiffany Smith, Stacy Ranieri, Jordan Pinkston, and Dawn Mille


DreamMaker Bath & KitchenNamed “President’s ClubAward” Winner Again

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of SE Florida (inStuart) is happy to share the news that Showplace WoodProducts named them a "President’s Club Award" win-ner for exceptional Showplace cabinetry sales for thesixth year in a row! Showplace is employee owned and isDreamMaker’s premier “Made in America” custom cab-inetry line as well as their cabinet refacing partner. Everyclient project is made-to-order and carries a limited life-time warranty. Showplace products are finished in awide range of popular stains and paints (including a vari-ety of grays by popular demand) to fit traditional, oldworld, and contemporary styles, and they have nowadded floating vanities to their style choices.

Additionally, the May 2017 ratings are in and of the38 DreamMaker locations nationwide, the Stuart loca-tion ranked #3 in total sales year-to-date! They of courseare VERY proud of this and wish to thank all of theirloyal customers for coming back to them when they'reready for their next remodeling project, and for referringtheir friends and neighbors to them too!

Lastly, they are very pleased to announce their affili-ation of 7 years with GuildQuality, North America'sleading customer satisfaction survey provider for theresidential construction industry. GuildQuality gathersunbiased feedback from DreamMaker clients, and pro-vides the company with the responses in real-time sothat they have the opportunity to follow up and resolveany issues that exist. Homeowners, now more than ever,rely on experiences from previous customers beforeselecting a company to trust with their remodeling proj-ect. DreamMaker strives to provide the best experience

Photo ProvidedLeft to Right: Betsy Young (Office), Dave Morelli (Vice Pres.), JenGribben DeMeo (Designer), Laura Young (Designer), Fred Jorn(Showplace Territory Mgr.), Sarah Parmental (Office), and KarinneDakis (Designer)

possible for their clients and invites you to visit theirGuildQuality profile page (by clicking on theGuildQuality link in their website) to read customercomments and ratings, see project photos of work thatthey've completed in the area, and more.

DreamMaker is locally owned, has an A+ rating withthe Better Business Bureau, and has been serving theTreasure Coast since 1987. So when you’re ready to talkabout your remodeling project, DreamMaker will bethere to provide a high quality experience for you.

To learn more about DreamMaker, visit their websiteat www.DreamMaker-Stuart.com, visit their design cen-ter at 6118 SE Fed. Hwy., Stuart (just south of Cove Rd.in the Port Cove Plaza by Tropical Smoothie), or callthem at 772-288-6255 to schedule a complimentaryconsultation with one of their three designers to discussyour remodeling needs.

NEWS FLASH: DreamMaker will be opening a sec-ond location this fall in the Three Palms plaza in Jupiterto serve theirr friends in the south! Watch for news of theGrand Opening!

Business BriefsSouth Florida Water MgtDistrict Receives Award

Kurt Spitzer, Executive Director of the FloridaStormwater Association presented the Caulkins WaterFarm project with the 2017 Excellence Award at theannual conference in June. Envisioned by BoydGunsalus, Lead Environmental Scientist for SouthFlorida Water Management District and designed byMelissa Corbett, P.E., President of The MilCor Groupcivil engineering firm, the project was recognized for itsinnovative and cost effective approach to reduce harmfulLake Okeechobee discharges to the St. Lucie River andEstuary. The water farm is a public/private partnershipbetween South Florida Water Management District andland owner George Caulkins. An astounding success, the450 acre pilot project nearly quadrupled its initial waterstorage projections. A 3,000 acre expansion project isnow under construction. For more information:www.facebook.com/CaulkinsWaterFarm/.

It all started with a routine trip to the store -- sud-denly you hear a screeching of tires and the harshsound of metal hitting metal. In the split second beforeyou can brace yourself, you feel your car moving fromsome unseen force! You’ve been Hit!

It’s tempting to minimize your own injuries becauseyour car has sustained little or no damage. More andmore research shows that occupants can be injuredconsiderably more than what you’d expect by a dentedfender or a busted taillight.

If you visit the emergency room, you may be given aclean bill of health because thankfully there are no bro-ken bones. You might get a prescription to reduce themuscle spasms caused by structural changes in yourneck or lower back. But the drugs numb your entirebody. You’ll be too loopy to even drive. And the pillswon’t heal inflamed tendons and ligaments. Musclerelaxers won’t fix torn muscles. A cervical collar won’trestore the graceful forward curve in your neck. Thedrug solution is designed to cover up the pain, hopingyour body can adapt to the structural changes causedby the accident. If your body doesn’t adapt, you mayhave to learn to live with headaches and back pain, orrisk becoming addicted to the medication.

Instead, you need a health care professional thattruly understands soft tissue injuries, spinal bio-mechanics and rehabilitation strategies. In other words,you need a thorough chiropractic examination and

experienced care toresolve your injuries.

Regardless of whowas at fault, there aretwo things that youmust do:

1) Seek professionalhealth care help. Thelonger you wait beforereceiving the appropri-ate care, the more scartissue is formed. Thisincreases the time nec-essary to resolve yourproblem. It’s never toolate; however the sooner you act the faster true healingcan be accomplished.

2) Seek professional legal help. Sadly, you may needto seek legal counsel to protect your rights and makesure that you can receive the health care you need.Many insurance companies are betting on the fact thatyou won’t pursue the benefits to which you are entitled.That is like being a victim twice!

If you have questions or concerns regarding an acci-dent contact our office today. We are always availableto help and answer any questions you may have.

Yours in Good Health, Dr. Leon GonyoD.C.,F.I.A.M.A. of Stuart Family Chiropractic &Acupuncture Center. Located at 6096 SE. FederalHwy, Stuart, FL 34997. For more information, pleasecall 772-781-0193 or visit the website: www.stuartfam-ilychiro.com.


Southern Breeze EnterprisesBarry McLaughlin9278 SE Sharon StreetHobe Sound, FL 33455561-701-5445Business Classification: Environmental ConsultingSponsored by: Barbara McLaughlin, Smart Source andBrandon Woodward, The Law Office of BrandonWoodwardOrganization Description: Southern Breeze Enterpriseswas formed after an actual work experience in Africawhere a school for women and children was helpedgreatly by a solar powered water system. Here in Floridathere is a tremendous opportunity to benefit your busi-ness operations by reducing your energy costs with a sus-tainable solar investment. This investment will enableincreased profits that can support business growth andexpansion needs. As a bonus, this sustainable effort willenhance and promote your company's ecological profile.Don't miss out on the reduced costs in effect now.

TJB Services, LLCTyler J. Biddle10233 SW Village Parkway, Unit 208Port St. Lucie, FL 34987772-678-9253www.tjbservicesllc.comBusiness Classification: Cleaning Residential &CommercialOrganization Description: TJB Services cleans Carpets,Tile & Grout, Upholstery & Oriental Rugs. Theyfocus on listening, communication, being early, careful-ly executing quality cleaning, and doing what they saythey will do. TJB Services is ecstatic to deliver topnotch quality and service to your home or business.

Welcome New Members:

Welcome Affiliate Member:Wells Fargo Home MortgageTracey Prazer12327 SE Indian River Drive So.Hobe Sound, FL 33455954-568-9699

Dr. Leon GonyoStuart Family Chiropractic and

Acupuncture Center

Accidents HappenBy Dr. Leon Gonyo, Stuart Family Chiropractic and Acupuncture Center

Chad Hastings Appointed toMartin County United Way

Lesser, Lesser, Landyand Smith announcedthat attorney ChadHastings is the newChair for the MartinCounty United Way.Hastings has been astrong supporter of theUnited Way of MartinCounty for many yearsand has served in severalboard roles with theorganization, includingserving as CampaignChair of the 2015-2016 United Way campaign raisingover $2.7 million for the organization, the most moneyever raised by United Way of Martin County.

Chad has been a dedicated community leader inMartin County creating the Treasure Coast JusticeAssociation, serving as chair of the Trial LawyersCommittee and serving as President of the MartinCounty Bar Association. He is a past graduate ofLeadership Martin County and currently serves ontheir Board of Directors.

For more information about Lesser, Lesser, Landy &Smith, please visit: www.lesserlawfirm.com.

Stuart Community CelebratesNew Enrichment Center

The Golden Gate community celebrated the grandopening of the Golden Gate Center for Enrichment onJuly 29. Local residents gathered their families andfriends to enjoy free food and beverages, face painting,snow cones, children’s games and prizes, live music anddancing, information booths and more.

Partner agencies and sponsors offered a variety of chil-dren’s activities as well as introducing them to programsand services available to the community. The MartinCounty Sheriff ’s Office Grill Team barbequed lunch forattendees while DJ Louie G Entertainment and localGuatemalan band Marimba Maya Quetzal entertainedthe crowd with lively music.

House of Hope CEO, Rob Ranieri, emceed the GrandOpening ceremony by inviting key partners to addressthe hundreds of party attendees to explain both thebuilding’s history and its exciting future.

House of Hope thanks the partnering sponsors of theGolden Gate Center for Enrichment grand opening cel-ebration: Martin County Community Foundation,United Way of Martin County, Amerisweeps, MartinCounty Sheriff ’s Office, Impressive Click, MarimbaMaya Quetzal and DJ Louie G Entertainment.

The Golden Gate Center for Enrichment is located at3225 S.E. Dixie Highway in Stuart. For more informa-tion, contact House of Hope by calling 772-286-4673.

Chad Hastings

There are less than 125days till the 32nd AnnualHobe Sound Chamber ofCommerce Christmas Parade.The parade is proudly spon-

sored by Treasure Coast Irrigation/Rood Landscape andBridge Boat & RV Storage and will be held on Saturday,December 2, 2017 at 1:00 PM.

A panel of judges will select winners and trophies willbe awarded in the following categories: Best Overall, BestReligious, Best Marching, Most Humorous, MostOriginal and Best Hobe Sound History.

There is NO entry fee. Presenting this parade is theChamber’s gift to the community. Entry forms are avail-able now. Last year’s participants will receive an entryform in the mail. Contact the Chamber if you have notyet received one. Deadline for applying is Friday, October6th. The long lead time is necessary in order to publishthe parade information, prepare line-up of entries andholiday advertisements in the November/December/January issue of The Pelican. In addition, participatingorganizations will have plenty of time to plan their entries.

The number of entries is limited, so it is imperativethat you get your entry form in early if you plan to bepart of this amazing hometown, time-honored event!Entry forms received after October 6th will be placed ona waiting list and called if there is a cancellation.

For sponsorship information or to get an entry formcall the chamber office, 772-546-4724.

Mark YourCalendar!


Chamber

Stuff

You Need

to Know!

• Note the Food Truck event hosted by theChamber, “3rd Saturday Gourmet” is back. Fall datesare September 16th and October 21st. The event willthen resume again in 2018 for the months of Marchthru June.

• Dates for member breakfast sponsors and guestspeakers for 2018 are already filling up fast. If you areinterested in sponsoring or speaking at a breakfast,Coffee Talk, or Luncheon, please call Jan to discusswhat dates are still available and get the details – 772-546-4724.

• Remaining open for sponsorships in 2017 are forthe September Coffee Talk and the October NetworkingLuncheon – Help us close out this year’s calendar.

• We will send you an Agreement via email for youto read, sign and return to reserve your date.

• You are welcome to attend the new GovernmentAffairs Committee meetings, the fourth Thursday ofeach month at 8:30am in the Chamber office. AnRSVP is required as seating is very limited. Go to:www.hobesound.org.

• Soon we will be preparing the next edition of theHobe Sound Map. There will be opportunities toadvertise on the map. You will get a call from a repre-sentative from Town Square Publications.

• Ambassador Committee Needs YOU! There cur-rently are openings for new Ambassadors. Ambassadorsare an important part of our Chamber. They are theface of the Chamber. By greeting members at events,attending ribbon cuttings, and helping with check-in itis the best way to meet other members and get to knowthem and the businesses they represent. There is onerequired meeting per month in addition to attendingevents. Call Jan for information and to sign up, 772-546-4724.

• It is the advertisers in The Pelican that make thispublication possible. Please be sure to visit those busi-nesses and if you’d like to be an advertiser, please let Janknow. A Rate Sheet with details and contract will beemailed to you. There are several ad sizes to fit any budg-et. Remember, 5,800 copies are distributed 3 times a yearas well as 6,300 of the November/December/Januaryissue. That’s a lot of exposure for your business for a veryreasonable advertising rate.

• Another advertising option relating to The Pelicanis the insert. It is only $80 to place an insert in the 550copies that we direct mail to our members. For details,call Jan at the Chamber office.

• Call Mary at 772-546-4724 if you are interested indoing an e-blast advertisement, upgrading your Chamberwebsite listing or advertising on the website. Mary hasthe fees and dates associated with these opportunities.

• Remember, to make the most of your chambermembership it is important for you to attend the net-working events so that others may get to know you.People do business with people they know!!

• And remember: Put your $$ where your ♥ is –Do business with Chamber members!

The South Florida Water Management District’s(SFWMD) five Stormwater Treatment Areas (STAs)sent the cleanest water ever produced by these facilitiesto the Everglades over this past water year. STAs areshallow constructed wetlands that use plants to natural-ly remove excess phosphorus from the water.

During Water Year 2017 (May 1, 2016 to April 30,2017), 57,000 acres of STAs treated 1.1 million acre-feet of water. These constructed wetlands reducedphosphorus levels to an overall average concentrationof 15 parts per billion (ppb). This is the lowest overallaverage phosphorus concentration on record forSFWMD’s STAs since the District began operatingthem and tracking annual water year performance in1994. Since inception, the STAs have prevented morethan 2,329 metric tons of phosphorus from going intothe Everglades.

“Taxpayers have invested billions of dollars intorestoring the Everglades because of the importance ofthis one-of-a-kind ecosystem,” said SFWMDGoverning Board Chairman Dan O’Keefe. “Theserecord results show that Florida taxpayers are gettingthe return on their investment they deserve; clean waterand a healthy Everglades for generations to come.”

This water year, water entered the STAs with anaverage total phosphorus concentration of 96 ppb andflowed out to the Everglades after treatment with anaverage concentration of just 15 ppb.

In western Palm Beach County, STA-3/4, SouthFlorida’s largest treatment area, had its best perform-ance with an average outflow phosphorus concentra-tion of 11 ppb. Also in Palm Beach County, STA-2performance resulted in an outflow phosphorus con-centration of 14 ppb. These two STAs received aidfrom the recently completed A-1 Flow EqualizationBasin (FEB), a component of Gov. Rick Scott’s $880million Restoration Strategies Plan, a series of proj-ects aimed at achieving Everglades water qualityrestoration goals.

The massive A-1 FEB, which the SFWMDGoverning Board recently opened for public recreation,

provides some water quality treatment before allowingwater to be sent to these STAs at a controlled rate. Thisprocess optimizes the conditions within the STAs forphosphorus removal. Statistics show that the averagephosphorus content of water flowing into STA-3/4during the 11 water years prior to routine A-1 FEBoperations was approximately 108 ppb. The averagephosphorus content of water entering STA-3/4 fromthe A-1 FEB in Water Year 2017 was about 61 ppb, a43 percent reduction.

“Clearly this component of Gov. Scott’s bold andforward-thinking Restoration Strategies Plan is work-ing as intended,” O'Keefe said. “With the completionof the remaining Restoration Strategies projects by2025, the Governor’s vision of a clean and restoredEverglades will become a reality.”

The STAs were first constructed in 1994 in an effortto reduce the concentration of phosphorus entering theEverglades Protection Area, which includes EvergladesNational Park and the three Water Conservation Areasin Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties;and, ultimately, to achieve water quality standardsestablished for the Everglades. Due to the successfuloperation of the STAs, Restoration Strategies andimplementation of a source control program requiringfarmers in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA)south of Lake Okeechobee to reduce phosphorus priorto STA treatment, about 90 percent of the EvergladesProtection Area has already met this goal.

Everglades Stormwater Treatment Areas Have Record Year

Hobe Sound Pelican

■ September Meetings ■

Wednesday, September 6thAMBASSADORS MEETING


Tuesday, September 12th and 26thHOBE SOUND TOASTMASTERS MEETING



Monday, September 18thBOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING


■ September Events ■

Friday, September 2nd, 8th, 22nd and 29th SCORE COUNSELINGFree Business Consulting



Monday, September 4thLABOR DAY

Chamber Office Closed

Tuesday, September 12thCOFFEE TALK

8:00-9:00am at Chamber OfficeGuest Speaker: Lonnie Koyama, Lead Economic

Development Specialist SBATopic: SBA Programs for Sales Training

Seating is limited to the first twelve who sign upNo fee to attend


Thursday, September 14thMONTHLY CHAMBER BREAKFAST

8:00-9:15am at Miles Grant Country Club 5101 SE Miles Grant Road, Stuart, FL 34997

Guest Speakers: Representatives from Town of HobeSound Committee, Martin County Sheriff ’sDepartment and Martin County Fire Rescue

Department regarding Incorporation of the Town of Hobe Sound

Sponsored by Todd Harris, Crown Car CareAdvance RSVP: $14 Members/$17 Non-Members

No RSVP: $17 Members/$22 Non-MembersNo Shows will be billed


Saturday, September 16th3RD SATURDAY GOURMET

5:00pm-9:00pmDowntown Hobe Sound, Dixie Highway between

Mars and Apollo StreetsFood Trucks, craft vendors, music and more

Wednesday, September 27thBUSINESS AFTER HOURS

5:30-7:00pmVisionary Schools of Arts, 1724 SE Indian Street andBrightway Insurance, 1728 SE Indian Street, Stuart

$10 Members/$15 Non-membersRegister online at www.hobesound.org

Thursday, September 28thGOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

8:30am-9:30am at the Chamber Office11954 SE Dixie Highway, Hobe Sound

RSVP Required, Seating is Limited, www.hobesound.org

■ October Meetings ■

Wednesday, October 4thAMBASSADORS MEETING

12:00pm Chamber Office

Tuesday, October 10th and 24thHOBE SOUND TOASTMASTERS MEETING



Monday, October 16thBOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

5:30pm Chamber Office

■ October Events ■

Friday, October 6th, 13th, and 27th SCORE COUNSELINGFree Business Consulting



Saturday, October 7thDINE AROUND HOBE SOUND

PROGRESSIVE DINNER5:30pm-10:00pm

Begin the evening at Hobe Sound Golf Club for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres hosted by

Marlene Filer for Celebrities Fore KidsProceed to the home of your choice of

one of the “celebrity chefs” And finish the evening at Flash Beach Grille

for dessert and a nightcapTickets on sale September 4th, $65 per person at

www.hobesound.org

Wednesday, October 11thINSIDE HOBE SOUND TOUR

8:30am-2:30pmBegins at the Chamber office and proceeds by bus

to points of interestFree and open to the public

Box lunch available for $10.00Call the Chamber to reserve a seat 772-546-4724

Thursday, October 12thMONTHLY CHAMBER BREAKFAST

8:00-9:15am at Hobe Sound Bible CollegeSchmul Dining Center,

11295 SE Gomez Avenue, Hobe SoundGuest Speaker: Rob Lord, CEO Martin Health System

Sponsored by Quit Doc FoundationAdvance RSVP: $14 Members/$17 Non Members

No RSVP: $17 Members/$22 Non MembersRegister at www.hobesound.org

Wednesday, October 18thNIBBLES & NETWORKING LUNCHEON,

SUCCESS ON THE MENUNoon-1:30pm

Details TBA, watch News You Can Use and theChamber website, www.hobesound.org

Saturday, October 21st3RD SATURDAY GOURMET

5:00pm-9:00pmDowntown Hobe Sound, Dixie Highway between

Mars and Apollo StreetsFood Trucks, craft vendors, music and more

Wednesday, October 25thBUSINESS AFTER HOURS

5:30pm-7:00pm Annual Trent Steele Halloween Bash

Steele Law, 10995 SE Federal Highway, Hobe SoundRegister at www.hobesound.org

Thursday, October 26thGOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

8:30am-9:30am at the Chamber Office11954 SE Dixie Highway, Hobe Sound

RSVP Required, Seating is Limited, www.hobesound.org

Tuesday, October 31stCOFFEE TALK

8:00-9:00am at Chamber OfficeSpeaker/Sponsor: Jennifer Segala,

Gateway School of Real Estate$10 Members/$15 Non-membersRegister at www.hobesound.org

Hobe Sound Chamber ofCommerce Calendar

August, September, and October 2017continued from page 1

www.hobesound.org

Domino’s Pizza – N. Corcoran Enterprises, Inc.Neal Corcoran668 N U.S. Highway One, Tequesta, FL 33469954-429-3030www.dominos.com

A big group of friends and family and Chamber Ambassadors wereon hand to welcome Neal Corcoran and Domino’s Pizza to the HobeSound Chamber and as a new business in Tequesta.

Casa Del VinoSilvia Mininni11330 SE Federal Highway, Hobe Sound, FL 33455772-675-2228

RibbonCuttings…

From left to right: Richard Nash, Office Volunteer, Amber Shirk,Seacoast Bank, Linda Wolf, ActiveCanvas, Jan McDonald, AMACInsurance, Sharyl Pratt, Illustrated Properties, Shelly Gonyo, StuartFamily Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center, Nancy Ferraro, FerraroLaw, Alessandro Uperi, Silvia’s grandson, Siliva Mininni, Casa DelVino, Franco Uperi, Silvia’s husband, Theresa Smith, Beaches HairStudio, Rich Otten, Keyes Company, Bill Brown, Glory Association,and Jan Otten, Hobe Sound Chamber

Ferraro LawNancy Ferraro11450 SE Dixie Highway, Hobe Sound, FL 33455732-266-7159

From left to right: Jan Otten, Hobe Sound Chamber, Trudi Onus,Seacoast Bank, Bill Brown, Glory Association, Candace Lopes, SkinSerenity Spa, Ralph Davino, Secure Storage, Nancy Ferraro, FerraroLaw, Jan McDonald, AMAC Insurance, Shelly Gonyo, StuartFamily Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center, Amber Shirk, SeacoastBank, Linda Wolf, ActiveCanvas, Melissa Davis, Servpro of Martin& St. Lucie, and Angela Hoffman, Hobe Sound Chamber


Since 1993Jupiter Medical CenterMetz Construction Company

Since 1996The Framery

Since 1997Law Office of Marc R. Gaylord

Since 2003Southern Pride Gourmet Foods

Since 2004AMAC Insurance

Since 2005Carrere General ContractorsHobe Sound DeliPro-Tech Fire Sprinklers

Since 2006Auto Air & More

Since 2007Almar/Jackson PoolsAmbrose Advanced Carpet CleaningCaring Children Clothing ChildrenFlash Beach GrilleFlorida Living Realty – Michelle TuckerKeith and Sons Landscaping

Since 2008Hope International MissionsPatrick HayesStuart Family Chiropractic and Acupuncture

Since 2009Loblolly Marina

Since 2010Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina

Since 2011B’ing the Best, Inc./McDonald’sCSI – Carpenter Security IntegratorsFlorida Fire Marshals & Inspectors AssociationHobe Sound Soccer ClubKeyes Company – Gena DuvallSt. John’s Greek Orthodox Church

Thank You Renewals:

Since 2012Gayle Harrell, State RepresentativeHobe Sound Art GalleryHobe Sound Community ChestJ. O. Jones PlumbingJunior AchievementLandwersiek & Associates Investment Planning GroupThe Law Office of Brandon WoodwardOld Dixie Café NorthStrategic Realty Services

Since 2013Fun Tours TravelHobe Sound ShipCenterMiles Grant Country ClubSelectShred

Since 2014First Florida Development & ConstructionFlo GodinoKeyes Company – Tom Whitehouse

Since 2015Audi Stuart/Infiniti StuartBelanger & Belanger Main Street RealtyChampions ClubCrown Car CareDiMeo Family DentalEdward Jones – Paul NunleyFirst Florida Solutions Insurance AgencyGrassam Spine & Wellness CenterJC ConsultingPlace of HopeReal Estate Book of Martin CountyThe Milcor GroupV.F.W. Hobe Sound 10132Vortex Security

Since 2016Brown & Brown InsuranceFlamingo SignsGroup One Safety & SecurityOrganic SolutionsParamount Disaster RecoveryRenu Medical AestheticsSkin Serenity SpaTwo Men and a Truck

Governor Appoints NewCouncil Members to theChildren’s Services Councilof Martin CountyBy: Jennifer Ahern, Manager of Outreach and Communications forChildren’s Services Council of Martin County

The Children’s Services Council of Martin Countywelcomes new Council Members. Governor Rick Scottannounced on Friday June 9th one reappointment andtwo new appointments to the Children’s ServicesCouncil of Martin County.

William “Bill” Tulko, of Hobe Sound is a retiredfinancial executive and CPA. Bill is currently serving asthe Chairperson of the Children’s Services Council ofMartin County and has been reappointed for a secondfour-year term.

Angela Hoffman, of Hobe Sound, is the ExecutiveDirector of the Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce.Angela also serves on the Martin County BusinessDevelopment Board and Chairs the Hobe Sound EarlyLearning Center’s Advisory Committee. Angela will filla vacant seat and is appointed for a four-year term.

Susan Burrows, of Jensen Beach, is a retired princi-pal of the Challenger School. Susan currently serves onthe Board of Directors for the ARC of Martin Countyand is also filling a vacant seat for a four-year term.

The Children’s Services Council of Martin Countyis composed of ten members:

Five ex-officio Council Members (appointed byvirtue of their office or position), including: • Juvenile Court Judge • Member of Martin County Board of CountyCommissioners • Member of Martin County School Board • Circuit 19 Administrator of the FloridaDepartment of Children and Families or his/herdesignee • Superintendent of Martin County Schoolsand five Florida Governor's appointees to serve termsof four years each.

To learn more about the Children’s Services Council ofMartin County, visit www.cscmc.org, friend the Councilat www.facebook.com/cscmc or call Mgr. of Outreachand Communications at 772-288-5758 ext. 102.

Photo by Leo Arbeznik, Images in ParadiseAngela Hoffman, Executive Director of the Hobe Sound Chamber ofCommerce


Picture Page

Photo by George KleineMay Cocktails & Connections, Guyton’s Custom DesignsGuyton Stone, explaining his state of the art equipment and display-ing a work currently in process.

Photo by Hobe Sound ChamberRibbon Cutting at Casa Del Vino. Ambassadors: Sharyl Pratt,Illustrated Properties; Amber Shirk, Seacoast Bank; Theresa Smith,Beaches Studio; Jan McDonald, AMAC Insurance; and RichardNash

Photo by BrookdaleJune Business After Hours Brookdale Tequesta Assisted Living &Memory Care, from left: Amber Shirk, Seacoast Bank: CandaceLopes, Skin Serenity Spa; Jan Otten, Hobe Sound Chamber; and JimFreitas, Bonner Mobile Bar

Photo by Hobe Sound ToastersHobe Sound Toasters, Toastmasters International Club #1206922The Circus has come to town!

Photo by George KleineMay Cocktails & Connections, Guyton’s Custom Designs, from left:Tara Biek, Real Estate Book of Martin County; Angela Hoffman,Hobe Sound Chamber and Tyler Biddle, TJB Services examine someof the equipment in Guyton’s workshop.

Photo by Hobe Sound ChamberWelcome committee for Angelo’s Too Ribbon Cutting, sitting:Candace Lopes, Skin Serenity Spa; Shelly Gonyo, Stuart FamilyChiropractic and standing: Madeline Rowe, Chamber Intern;Melissa Davis, Servpro of Martin & St. Lucie Counties; Jan Otten,Hobe Sound Chamber

Photo by BrookdaleJune Business After Hours, Brookdale Tequesta Assisted Living &Memory Care, from left: Loretta Kocik, Boys & Girls Club of MartinCounty; Richard Ward; Allola McGraw, Social Member; RalphDavino, Secure Storage; and Gigi Suntum, Caring Children,Clothing Children

Photo by BrookdaleJune Business After Hours, Brookdale Tequesta Assisted Living &Memory Care, from left: James Jones, James O. Jones Plumbing;Allola McGraw, Social member; Eric Wesel, Jupiter Island Pools;Guest; Dr. Leon Gonyo, Stuart Family Chiropractic andAcupuncture Center; Shelly Gonyo, Stuart Family Chiropractic &Acupuncture Center; and Dean Lopes, Skin Serenity Spa

Photo by BrookdaleBusiness After Hours, Brookdale Assisted Living and Memory CareAudrey Burzynski, Floridians Fighting Falls; Flo Godino, SocialMember

Photo by Hobe Sound ChamberJune Coffee Talk, from left: Debbie Banta, Elliott Museum; JimBrown, Social Member; Louie Morell, Jupiter Island Management;Tara Biek, The Real Estate Book; Stephanie Sunderhaus, KellerWilliams—Jupiter; Ilona Scully, Around Towne Magazine; JenniferSegala, Gateway School of Real Estate; Brian Embick, BeExactHome Inspections; Rich Otten, The Keyes Company; CandaceCallahan, Humane Society of the Treasure Coast; Bill Brown, GloryAssociation; Peter Einhorn, The Fur Seasons

Photo by Hobe Sound ChamberRich Otten, Keyes Company, chatting with Franco Uperi at the CasaDel Vino Ribbon Cutting.

Photo by Hobe Sound ChamberJune Breakfast at Miles Grant Country Club, from left: AngelaHoffman, Hobe Sound Chamber Executive Director; Kathy Barnesand Betty Weed, Miles Grant Country Club Board of Directors

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