FLORIDA BY THE NUMBERS Florida Outpaces the Nation in Annual Job Growth; Manufacturing Update with Florida Chief Manufacturing Officer Jason Mahon The August 2026 edition ofFlorida By The Numbersis now available. Florida continues to strengthen its position as one of the world's leading economies, with new data highlighting the state's economic growth, labor market, manufacturing excellence, inflation, and housing trends.Florida Chamber Foundation Senior Director of Economic Research,
Trouble viewing? View in your browser. Small Business Workshop The Every-day Negotiator, Master the Core Skills That Transform Your Business September 15, 2026 @ 12:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopThe Every-day Negotiator, Master the Core Skills That Transform Your Business Negotiation isn't just for big deals-it's a daily skill that shapes every part of your business. From pricing and
August 2026The Art of Caring William "David" SnyderOwner, CEOWhat To Look For When Searching for Care for Your Loved One. As we begin a new season, this newsletter focuses on an important question many families face: when is the right time to start looking for care? In my blog, The Art of Caring, I share my own insights when choosing home care and why planning ahead can give families time to ask questions and make informed decisions. Click here to read more. We
Welcome to the Stream Team Ian PricePlease join us in welcoming Ian Price to the Gulf Stream Council team! Ian will be joining the council as a District Executive serving the Everglades District. He brings with him more than four decades of Scouting experience, both as a Scout and as a dedicated volunteer leader. Ian first joined Scouting in 1984 as a Tiger Cub with Pack 606 in the South Florida Council. He continued through Cub Scouting, earned his Arrow of Light, and crossed over to Boy Scout
Sen. Rick Scott Calls on Congress to Pass Bills to Cut Red Tape, Help Small Businesses ThriveSenator Rick Scott is calling on Congress to pass a series of bills that will cut red tape and make it easier for Floridians to open small businesses.While Democrat Socialists are kneecapping the American Dream and forcing big government on American businesses, Senator Scott is calling on Congress to unshackle workers and entrepreneurs from burdens imposed by big government and instead
163 Children Rescued from Trafficking and Exploitation163 children, who were missing and being exploited, are now safe. Last week, we were part of Operation Statewide Shield, a coordinated recovery effort alongside the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Victim Services, and the Florida Human Trafficking Victims Fund to rescue 163 children from Florida ranging in age from infant to 17 from human trafficking and child exploitation. More than half of the children recovered were originally from
View this email in your browserA famous phrase "All politics is local," is most closely associated with Tip O'Neill, the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1977 to 1987. It couldn’t be more true today. The turnout for the primary was low in Martin County. Only 28.9%. Did you vote? If you did not…we would love to know why. Your response will be kept confidential. Mctaxpayers1950@gmail.com.The MCTA would like to congratulate all who won their races and also congratulate those who lost
Trouble viewing this email?Click here. August 2026‘Snooping’ on Dolphins Reveals Hotspots for Food and Friends Researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute have been “snooping” on dolphins – and what they heard offers new clues about where the animals socialize and hunt.Keep reading.Resilient Seagrass Species Could Help Reshape Coastal Restoration FAU Harbor Branch researchers have documented the restoration potential of a resilient
Ashley Capital Begins Pre-Leasing at Martin Commerce Park as Phase 1 Moves into Development Fully entitled 167-acre commerce park at I-95 Exit 110 in Palm City, Fla. will deliver 485,000 square feet of Class A industrial space available for lease Palm City, Fla. — Ashley Capital today announced that Martin Commerce Park has secured all final approvals and is officially moving into development, opening the door for businesses to secure space in one of the Treasure Coast's most strategically located
Trouble viewing? View in your browser. Amazon Small Business Workshop Preparing for Peak Season in Amazon’s Online Stores September 2, 2026 @ 12:00 pm EDTCost: FREEDuration: 75 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopPreparing for Peak Season in Amazon’s Online Stores Peak season is the single biggest revenue opportunity of the year—and the sellers who prepare early are the ones who win. In this high-impact session, you'll learn
Florida Department of Transportation FDOT Treasure Coast Traffic Report August 28, 2026 – September 4, 2026MARTIN, ST. LUCIE and INDIAN RIVER COUNTIES, Fla. – Treasure Coast traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction projects and maintenance work in Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials report. Please note, any full road, ramp or bridge closures have been highlighted below. For around-the-clock, real-time, I-95 traffic
Reminder! U.S. Service Academy Applications Close September 25thDear Fellow Floridian,Each year, I have the great honor of nominating some of Florida’s incredible young men and women to attend our nation’s U.S. Service Academies. As a Navy veteran myself, I am grateful for the opportunity to support young Floridians eager to attend our service academies and serve their country.Now, through September 25th, my office is accepting applications for students interested in attending the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S.
For the fourth consecutive year, Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel – Florida Injury Lawyers has been voted a Guide to Florida Best of Florida winner in the Personal Injury Law category. Best of Florida recognizes leading businesses and organizations throughout the state based on votes from the public. For our firm, that makes this honor particularly meaningful. Rather than relying on formal advertising, our firm has grown through relationships, referrals and the reputation we have built by providing
REMEMBERING OUR FALLEN HEROES Joseph - Five years ago, the world watched in horror as Afghanistan descended further into chaos. But one day remains especially painful to remember: August 26, 2021, when a bombing at Abbey Gate at Hamid Karzai International Airport took the lives of 13 American heroes. These 13 men and women embodied the very best of our nation. They answered the call to serve, knowing the risks, and willingly put themselves in harm’s way to protect vulnerable people,
View this email in your browserCorrected Website Links The Johnny & Terry Gray Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregivers Support Program– Fall 2026 –The Dementia Caregiver’s Support Group is designed to provide information and education to enhance the health and quality of life for people living with dementia and those caring for them. As caregivers have different roles depending upon their previous role in the relationship.Registration required for all groups. Space is
U.S. Department of Transportation (MARAD) Designates Chapman School of Seamanship a Maritime Center of Excellence for Domestic Workforce Training and Education Federal designation recognizes Chapman’s maritime training, workforce outcomes, and role in preparing the next generation of America’s maritime professionalsSTUART, Fla. — August 25, 2026 — Charles F. Chapman School of Seamanship has been designated a Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education by the U.S. Department
Hello Bunny,Florida's economic success didn't happen by accident. It's the result of decades of intentional leadership, pro-business policies and a commitment to free enterprise that continues to make Florida one of the America's most competitive economies. That's why the Florida Chamber launched the Free Enterprise Florida competitiveness campaign—to highlight why businesses continue choosing Florida and why protecting our state's competitive advantage requires
NATIONAL PARKS WEEKJoseph -More than 400 national parks stretch across this country, from battlefields where history was made, to the homes of presidents and innovators, and landscapes you can't find anywhere else on earth. At home, that includes Florida’s treasured Everglades. Today, August 25th the National Park Service turns 110, and they’re marking the celebration with an entrance fee-free day for all U.S. citizens. This is a great way to get out and experience the beauty of this great
The Mayfield Minute - August 23, 2026 Good Morning! Celebrating Passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution This Wednesday, August 26th, we celebrate Women's Equality Day, commemorating the adoption of the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibited states from denying citizens the right to vote based on gender. On August 26th, 1920, U.S. Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby signed the proclamation certifying the
Our Mission is to stop discharges into the St. Lucie River from Lake Okeechobee and to fight for a safe, healthy and ecologically balanced St. Lucie River Estuary and Indian River Lagoon, and the natural resources that are vital to the economy and quality of life of Martin County and the Treasure Coast. Rivers CoalitionAugust 2026 Newsletter Next MeetingThursday, September 24, 2026 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Stuart City Hall Chambers121 SW Flagler Ave, Stuart, FLThis meeting is in person and via Zoom, and
Dear Community Partner, On Tuesday, October 13, we will convene 150-200 multidisciplinary professionals for the Domestic Violence Summit- From Awareness to Action: Safety. Solidarity. Solutions.This first-of-its-kind regional event will equip professionals to recognize risk, understand trauma, strengthen documentation and evidence continuity, improve referral pathways, and coordinate the next safe step.Featured presenter Jim Schmidt of The Gabby Petito Foundation will lead practical
View this email in your browser The Right Whale: Tales of Resilience & Hope Get Your Tickets! Right whales are one of the most endangered large whales on the planet—and their story is one of remarkable resilience, scientific discovery and hope. Join Florida Oceanographic Society on Saturday, August 29 for a special screening of The Right Whale: Tales of Resilience & Hope at the Marriott Hutchinson Island
HOME | ABOUT | CONTACTAugust 19, 2026Benefits of Strategic Partnerships for Business Growth In today's business landscape, collaboration often outshines solitary efforts, with strategic partnerships becoming key to success. These alliances enable businesses to leverage each other's strengths, resources, and expertise, driving mutual growth. Access …Acquisition Experts LLCWhat is an email alias, and how does it protect your privacy? An email alias gives users an alternative email
Discover Our Integrated Medical Psychiatry ProgramOur program provides patient-centered care for vulnerable populations who are struggling with their mental health. Our clinical team can accommodate and treat several medical comorbidities, including:Wounds: Stage 3 or 4 (pending assessment)Stroke and other neurological disordersSleep apneaIncreased respiratory support for patients on CPAP and BiPAPComplex comorbidities (seizures, diabetes, high BP, CHF, COPD, UTI)OxygenCatheterization (foley/suprapubic)Oral
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Nine attorneys from Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel – Florida Injury Lawyers have earned recognition from their peers for excellence across personal injury, medical malpractice and insurance law in the 2027 editions of The Best Lawyers in America® and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America. Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser and Partners Joseph B. Landy, Glenn E. Siegel, Michael S. Smith, Michael V. Baxter, Joshua D. Ferraro, Steven J. Clarfield and Jeffrey F. Gordon are recognized in
Small Business Workshop Grow Your Business and Increase Sales Through Exporting September 1, 2026 @ 6:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopGrow Your Business and Increase Sales Through Exporting Nearly 95% of the world’s population lives outside the United States, which means additional sales growth is likely from exporting.Advantages:Exporting is a business that can be started
Accessing Nonprofit Grants, Sponsorships, and ResourcesAugust 19th @ 10:00 am Fee: $10Location:Online WorkshoThis workshop provides a high-level overview of the online spaces that are major sources of funding and nonprofit resources.Divided into three (3) sections, the discussion provides instruction on:(1) the best grant databases and websites(2) where to locate corporate sponsors(3) nonprofit resources that will help you further your missionLearn More and Registration >>About Our Instructor Cheryl Smith,
View this email in your browser2026 Cancer Survivorship ProgramAugust & September Classes Oncology Rehabilitation for Pelvic Floor DisordersPelvic floor disorders (PFDs) are common in cancer patients, particularly those with gynecological, prostate, or colorectal cancers, due to treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy causing muscle damage, nerve damage, or scarring. Symptoms include incontinence, pain, and sexual dysfunction. Specialized pelvic floor physical therapy is highly
Dear Fellow Floridian,Right now, America’s foreign adversaries see a loophole in our immigration system to exploit birthright citizenship. It’s called birth tourism.Last year, I introduced the Stopping Adversarial Foreign Exploitation of Kids in Domestic Surrogacy (SAFE KIDS) Act to prevent adversarial nations, including Communist China, from using American surrogates to obtain U.S. citizenship for their children and traffic infants abroad. This practice results in horrific abuse of infants and children; it
MARTIN, ST. LUCIE and INDIAN RIVER COUNTIES, Fla. – Treasure Coast traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction projects and maintenance work in Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials report. Please note, any full road, ramp or bridge closures have been highlighted below. For around-the-clock, real-time, I-95 traffic information, visit www.fl511.com. For updated lane closure information, please refer to www.d4fdot.com. Follow us on X
Small Business Workshop Business Contracts Must Knows August 18, 2026 @ 6:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopBusiness Contracts Must Knows This webinar is designed to help business owners who want to learn more about creating business contracts for their businesses.The webinar will provide tools to help business owners avoid common mistakes when using contracts.Webinar topics will
Registration is now open for the Domestic Violence Summit- From Awareness to Action: Safety. Solidarity. Solutions.Tuesday, October 13, 20268:30 AM-3:30 PMMIDFLORIDA Event Center | Port St. Lucie, FloridaRegistration: $125 per personFeatured presenter Jim Schmidt, Board Member of The Gabby Petito Foundation, will lead sessions focused on lessons from the Gabby Petito case, trauma and victim behavior, high-risk indicators, documentation, evidence continuity, and coordinated response.This first-of-its-kind
e Mayfield Minute - August 16, 2026 Good Morning! National Nonprofit Day Tomorrow, we celebrate National Nonprofit Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the valuable contributions of nonprofit organizations in our communities and across the nation. Observed annually on August 17th, National Nonprofit Day commemorates the Tariff Act of 1894, which first exempted nonprofits from federal income taxes. Nonprofits are the backbone of our communities,
Dear Friends, Election Day is only days away, and now is the time to make your voice heard. No matter where you stand on the issues shaping Martin County’s future, local elections give each of us an opportunity to have a say in the decisions that affect our community. Early voting is underway now through Saturday, August 15. Election Day is Tuesday, August 18. Here’s something voters may not realize: Most of our local races will be decided in the August election, including races for Martin County
One Week in Georgia Changed What Naomi Thought Was Possible! "My favorite part was going to Coca-Cola World and trying out different soda flavors from each country." Ask Naomi about her favorite part of family vacation and she will not tell you about the hotel or the pool. She will tell you about tasting sodas from countries she had never been to! That is what she
View this email in your browserFew who move to Florida really understand how important water is to our state. Not just for recreation but because we are a peninsula and a very shallow one at that. The control and movement of water are so essential that special water districts were formed by the government. They are special taxing authorities. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has the responsibility in our area. Here is an explanation. Please let us know your thoughts at
ONE YEAR SINCE THE TRAGEDY IN FORT PIERCEJoseph -One year ago this week, three Floridians lost their lives on Florida’s Turnpike near Fort Pierce due to the complete and utter recklessness of a foreign truck driver with an illegal CDL license. These Americans were simply driving down the highway, only a few miles from my home, when they crashed into a tractor trailer driven by a foreign national who was making an illegal U-turn on the interstate. This should have never happened.When we passed
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2026 COCHRANE REVIEW EXAMINES SPINAL MANIPULATION FOR CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN STUART, FL — A major 2026 Cochrane review is providing an updated look at spinal manipulative therapy as a conservative treatment option for adults living with chronic low back pain. The review analyzed 76 randomized clinical trials involving 11,866 participants and compared spinal manipulation or mobilization with sham treatment, no treatment, and other conservative approaches. Researchers found that
36 border collies now in Humane Society care after Palm City hoarding case PALM CITY, Fla. — The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is providing urgent care for 36 border collies, including three puppies up to six months old, after the dogs were removed from another hoarding case. The Martin County Sheriff’s Office arrested Paige O’Donnell yesterday, and she is facing felony charges for animal cruelty and improper confinement, according to Sheriff John Budensiek. Upon intake, the dogs were fed and given
Florida entered 2026 building upon the foundation of economic momentum: strong population growth, major corporate headquarters relocating due to our attractive business and economic landscape, job growth that has outpaced the nation for many years, and low unemployment—all establishing Florida’s economy as a national leader. Now, in the midpoint of 2026, both the national and state economies have experienced slowdowns.New data in the 2026 Florida Business & Economic Mid-Year Report
Small Business Workshop Find the Hidden Profit in Your Business August 19, 2026 @ 12:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopFind the Hidden Profit in Your Business Discover where profit may already be hiding inside your business. This practical webinar explains how small improvements in pricing, margins, costs, customer value, sales, and marketing can compound into meaningful
Treasure Coast Hospice Launches New Website to Make Hospice Referrals Easier for Families and Healthcare Providers Simpler Online Referral Experience Makes Connecting with Hospice Easier STUART, Fla. (Aug. 12, 2026) – Treasure Coast Hospice has launched a newly redesigned website featuring an enhanced online referral experience that makes it easier for healthcare providers, patients, and families to connect with hospice care. The new website was developed to remove common barriers people may face
&##128680; EARLY BIRD ENDS AT MIDNIGHT – REGISTER NOW & SAVE!&##128680;Secure your seat at the lowest available rate before prices increase.REGISTER BOOK HOTELSPONSORDon't Miss Today's Early Bird Registration DeadlineRegistration is open for the 2026 Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit, taking place December 10-11 at the Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida. Now in its 19th year, the Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit brings together business leaders, insurance executives, lawmakers,
Few who move to Florida really understand how important water is to our state. Not just for recreation but because we are a peninsula and a very shallow one at that. The control and movement of water are so essential that special water districts were formed by the government. They are special taxing authorities. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has the responsibility in our area. Here is an explanation. Please let us know your thoughts at mctaxpayers1950@gmail.com. South Florida
Every successful project begins with a plan—and every excavation should begin with a call to 811.In recognition of National 811 Day, the Florida Chamber Safety Council is joining Sunshine 811 in reminding Florida businesses, contractors, and homeowners to contact 811 before every digging project, no matter how big or small.Striking an underground utility line can result in costly repairs, service interruptions, gas leaks and serious injuries. Fortunately, preventing these incidents is simple, free and
News from Congressman Brian Mast Joseph -Ten years ago, toxic blue-green algae—fueled by billions of gallons of discharges from Lake Okeechobee—coated the St. Lucie River, the Indian River Lagoon, and our beaches in thick, guacamole-looking sludge. Our waterways were dying, and our community's livelihoods were on the line.That's when then-Senate President Joe Negron stood up and said enough is enough. He called for storing water south of Lake Okeechobee, cleaning it, and sending it to the Everglades and
Sen. Rick Scott Is Not Giving Up the Fight to Pass Pres. Trump's America-First AgendaDear Fellow Floridian,The American people gave us a mandate to deliver on President Trump’s America-First agenda and secure our elections. Last week, all Senate Republicans voted to require identification in our elections, and every Democrat opposed it. Now the Senate is going into a five-week recess without having passed the SAVE America Act. This is unacceptable! I believe that the Senate should not have left D.C. without
View this email in your browserCASE RESULTGlenn Siegel Secures $600K Settlement After Insurer Ignores Repeated DemandsWhen an insurance company ignored repeated demands and failed to make any settlement offer after a Lake Worth car accident, Firm Partner Glenn Siegel prepared to take the case to court. His persistence and readiness to litigate ultimately resulted in a $600,000 settlement for his client.Although the vehicle sustained only minor damage in the shopping center parking lot crash, the
PALM CITY, Fla. — Employees and volunteers of the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) are still working around the clock after Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek described a recent animal hoarding case as the worst in the county’s history. In all, 108 animals were recovered and taken to the HSTC for immediate medical attention and care after 77-year-old Gail Giustino was arrested on July 20, 2026. So far, 10 cats and 17 dogs have been adopted from this case, and five microchipped cats have been
Trouble viewing? View in your browser.Small Business Workshops | Aug 6 - Aug 22August 6, 6:00pm EDTA Human Resources’ Checklist to Reduce RiskREGISTERAugust 7, 12:00pm EDTOne Legal Mistake Can Ruin Your BusinessREGISTERAugust 8, 9:30am EDTCanva For Your Business - Stunning Drag and Drop DesignREGISTERAugust 10, 6:00pm EDTHR 101: Hiring, Firing and Other Key HR Basics for Small Business OwnersREGISTERAugust 11, 12:00pm EDTUsing MindPal to Create Business Workflows; Automating Tasks with AI
MARTIN, ST. LUCIE and INDIAN RIVER COUNTIES, Fla. – Treasure Coast traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction projects and maintenance work in Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials report. Please note, any full road, ramp or bridge closures have been highlighted below. FDOT Treasure Coast Traffic Report August 7, 2026 – August 14, 2026 MARTIN, ST. LUCIE and INDIAN RIVER COUNTIES, Fla. – Treasure Coast traffic will be affected
View as a webpage here News Release Results of the 2026 Florida Python Challenge™ Today, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and partners announced the results and winners of the 2026 Florida Python Challenge™, an event intended to raise awareness about invasive species while engaging the public in Everglades conservation through removal of invasive Burmese pythons. Over the course of the 10-day event, 907 Python Challenge participants from 30 different
Trouble viewing? View in your browser. Small Business Workshop Performance Management That Actually Works August 13, 2026 @ 10:30 am EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopPerformance Management That Actually Works Many employee performance issues do not begin as disciplinary or termination matters. They often stem from unclear expectations, inconsistent feedback , or lack of follow through . This live
Get Ready for GC26! Standout Sessions, SoFi Center, and South Florida SunshineFamous for its picturesque waterfront, lively entertainment districts, and vibrant arts scene, The Palm Beaches make it easy to slip into vacation mode between sessions. Turn on your OOO and secure your spot at the Sunshine State’s premier tourism event! Join hundreds of passionate Florida tourism and hospitality professionals for three days of innovation, collaboration, and world-class networking at
Out in the Community2026 Preliminary Tax RollThe Florida Department of Revenue (FDOR) approved our 2026 Preliminary Tax Roll submission for Martin County. The FDOR is a State agency responsible for the oversight and in-depth auditing of our tax roll data. The annual tax roll audit process is extensive and thorough requiring 4 different submission reviews throughout every tax year. These audits ensure that all State statutes are followed as well as confirming that the data meets the highest level of
Dear FP Friends & Family, While we are so very grateful to have reimbursement grant funding available for our Help Us Stay In (HUSI) Eviction Prevention Program and Help Us Move In (HUMI) Rapid Rehousing Program, the need in Martin County has never been greater, each year we find the need growing as inflation grows but wages just do not keep pace. We are seeing a record number of families reaching out for assistance—many of them hardworking members of our local workforce, including
FDOT Treasure Coast Traffic Report July 31, 2026 – August 7, 2026 MARTIN, ST. LUCIE and INDIAN RIVER COUNTIES, Fla. Treasure Coast traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction projects and maintenance work in Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials report. Please note, any full road, ramp or bridge closures have been highlighted below. For around-the-clock, real-time, I-95 traffic information, visit www.fl511.com. For updated lane
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENTEast Stuart & Historic Downtown Stuart Officially Added to the National Register of Historic Places STUART, FLA (july 21, 2026) -- The City of Stuart is proud to announce that the East Stuart Historic District and the Downtown Stuart Historic District have been officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. This milestone marks the successful conclusion of a multi-year historic
Trouble viewing? View in your browser.Small Business Workshops | Aug 3 - 10August 3, 1:00pm EDTSBA Funding Options and Resources for Small BusinessesExplore SBA funding options, lender resources, and practical next steps for starting or growing your business.REGISTERAugust 3, 6:00pm EDTIntroduction to QuickBooks OnlineLearn the basics of QuickBooks Online so you can organize records, track activity, and manage your books.REGISTERAugust 3, 6:00pm EDTFunding Your Business: A Capital Roadmap for
Trouble viewing this email?Click here. July 2026Seagrass Restoration In June, Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute completed its largest seagrass restoration planting to date in the Indian River Lagoon. Over two days, the team harvested and planted five transects of shoal grass (Halodule wrightii) in roughly five feet of water at the deeper edge of an existing seagrass meadow. The seagrass had been grown in the Harbor Branch Seagrass Nursery in water pumped
The Mayfield Minute - August 2, 2026Good Morning!Back to School Next Monday, August 10th, is the first day of the 2026-2027 school year. As the new school year begins, I want to extend my thanks to our wonderful school staff, teachers, and parents. Your dedication and support are invaluable, and we appreciate all that you do to help our children reach their full potential. Whether this is your first year or your final year, we hope it is filled with extraordinary accomplishments and cherished
We're proud to launch the Child Protection Awareness Program,featuring training on Recognizing and Responding to Child Abuse.This educational program is designed to equip community members, professionals, and volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed to identify the signs of child abuse and respond appropriately. The training was initially developed in partnership with the Indian River State College Public Safety Training Complex to educate first responder candidates.Due to its success and
News Release Celebrating a Major Milestone for the Indian River Lagoon-South C-23/C-24 Stormwater Treatment Area Pictured from L-R: SFWMD Governing Board Member Ben Butler; Sen. Gayle Harrell; Executive Director of the Florida Oceanographic Society Mark Perry; Martin County Commission Chair Sarah Heard; SFWMD Executive Director Drew Bartlett; USACE-Jacksonville District Col. Brandon Bowman; U.S. Rep. Brian Mast; and St. Lucie County Commissioner James ClasbyThe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
View this email in your browser Complimentary Skin Cancer ScreeningLiving in sunny South Florida puts you at an increased risk of skin cancer. Be proactive and join us for a free skin cancer screening.Screenings provided in partnership with the providers from Gardens Dermatology. Saturday, August 8, 2026 • 9 a.m. - NoonJupiter Medical Center, The Anderson Family Cancer Institute,1240 S. Old Dixie Hwy., JupiterAppointments are required. Call 561-263-4210.This screening is open only to
August 3rd, 202612th Edition From the Desk of Kara Stimpson, President and CEOIt is my honor to pass the torch this month to our Interim CEO, Christine Storm. I am so proud to introduce Christine to the Helping People Succeed community. Many of you have already met Christine, as she joined our team as our inaugural Chief Program Officer earlier this year and has made an immediate impact leading our program teams’ development. With her deep background in both programs and development, she is
Lesser, Landy, Smith and Siegel - Florida Injury Lawyers is pleased to announce that seven of our attorneys have been recognized as 2026 Florida Super Lawyers. The Super Lawyers honorees are Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser and Partners Joseph B. Landy, Michael S. Smith, Michael V. Baxter, Jeffrey F. Gordon and Steven J. Clarfield. Attorney Imani M. Williams is recognized as a Rising Star for the third consecutive year.This marks 21 years and the 18th consecutive year that Gary, Joe and Mickey have been
STUART, Fla. (June 24, 2026) – Treasure Coast residents, this one is for you! The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing (Discover Martin) has once again partnered with Visit St. Lucie and Visit Indian River to launch the Locals Only summer savings program. Redeem exclusive deals at hotels, restaurants, boutiques, attractions, and experiences across the region, available now through September 30, 2026. The Locals Only program is a thank you to all the people who call the Treasure Coast home. From
What Is Adobe Firefly? Adobe Firefly is a standalone generative artificial intelligence application built to assist small businesses and creators with visual asset generation through plain language instructions. The system operates via a web browser interface, converting detailed text descriptions into accurate graphics, stylized artwork, or high definition video sequences. Every output generated through its production ready features is certified and cleared for commercial marketing use, protecting your
The Treasure Coast is one of Florida's most ecologically distinct regions — home to the Indian River Lagoon, the St. Lucie River, and a business community that has long treated environmental stewardship as a civic value, not a marketing angle. The Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce is a member of the River Coalition, which signals something real about how local businesses relate to the natural systems around them. That context matters if you're thinking about launching a business
Businesses of all sizes rely on consultants to solve problems, improve performance, and unlock growth. A consultant is a specialized professional who offers expert advice in a defined area such as finance, marketing, operations, or technology. Rather than depending on a single perspective, many companies benefit from working with different consultants across disciplines.Key Takeaways at a Glance Different consultants bring specialized expertise that internal teams may lack. External advisors offer
Small Business Administration Date: 03/04/2026 U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FACT SHEET – ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOANS (SBA DISASTER DECLARATION DUE TO DESIGNATION BY THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE) FLORIDA Declaration 21457 (Disaster: FL-20034) Incident: FREEZE, FROST, ICE, AND HIGH WINDS occurring: January 23, 2026 through February 5, 2026 in the Florida counties of: Broward, Palm Beach and Sumter; and the contiguous Florida counties of: Citrus, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Hernando, Lake, Marion,
OFFICE OF DISASTER RECOVERY & RESILIENCE Release Date: March 10, 2026 Contact: Karen.Knapik@sba.gov Release Number: FL-20034-01 Follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn & Instagram SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Florida Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Freeze, Frost, Ice and High Winds Low interest disaster loans now available WASHINGTON— The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)
Video and audio have become the default language of digital discovery — and for member businesses across Martin County and Port St. Lucie, that shift is too significant to ignore. How widely video has been adopted tells the story plainly: 91% of businesses now use video as a marketing tool, with 93% of video marketers calling it an important part of their overall strategy. Port St. Lucie is one of Florida's fastest-growing cities, with a metro area topping 500,000 residents and rising. The chamber members
STUART, FL – March 06, 2026 — Chapman School of Seamanship, an internationally recognized 501(c)3, nonprofit marine training institution and the State of Florida’s designated maritime school, has announced the launch of its new Vessel Legacy Program. This initiative allows boat and yacht owners to donate vessels to support maritime education, workforce development, and safety programs for boaters of all ages. Through the program, donated vessels may be used as ‘at-the-helm’ training platforms for
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel is proud to announce that eight of our attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers ® in America. Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser is joined by Partners Joseph B. Landy, Glenn E. Siegel, Joshua D. Ferraro, Jeffrey F. Gordon and Steven J. Clarfield and Senior Counsel Michael S. Smith as recipients of the Best Lawyers in America ® Award. Firm Attorney Imani M. Williams is recognized in the Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch ® in America. “Our
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC, a 98-year-old personal injury law firm renowned for its commitment to fighting for the best results, is pleased to announce that Tami R. Wolfe has joined the firm as a Partner.Wolfe will spearhead the opening of the Firm’s new Broward County office, marking a significant expansion in the firm’s unparalleled service to personal injury clients across Florida.“Tami’s extensive experience, her outstanding reputation in the legal community, and her deep
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith and Siegel, PLLC is pleased to announce that five of our attorneys have been selected to the 2025 Florida Super Lawyers list. The Super Lawyers honorees are Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser and Partners Joseph B. Landy, Michael S. Smith and Michael V. Baxter. Attorney Imani M. Williams is recognized as a Rising Star for the second consecutive year. This marks 20 years and the 17th consecutive year that Gary Lesser, Joseph Landy and Michael Smith have been
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith and Siegel, PLLC is proud to announce that seasoned trial attorney Michael V. Baxter has joined the firm as a Partner in its West Palm Beach office where he will focus his practice on representing individuals and families who have been catastrophically injured due to medical negligence. With nearly three decades of legal experience, Baxter brings a powerful combination of courtroom skill and deep knowledge of medical malpractice litigation. “Mike Baxter is well
West Palm Beach, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC is pleased to announce that Ryan M. McCarthy has joined the firm as a partner in the West Palm Beach office. McCarthy will oversee the firm’s growing Contingency Business Litigation Division. McCarthy brings over a decade of experience litigating cases, and is known for his meticulous, client-centered approach to resolving high-stakes claims. He is licensed to practice in Florida and Massachusetts and has represented a wide range of clients,
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC is proud to announce that five of our attorneys have been named to the esteemed 2025 LawDragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers guide.This recognition highlights their unwavering dedication to seeking justice for their clients and their outstanding contributions to the legal profession.The lawyers included on this year’s list are Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser, and Partners Joseph B. Landy, Michael S. Smith, Glenn E. Siegel and Jeffrey F.
We are proud to announce that our Firm has changed its name to Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC. The name change acknowledges the significant contributions of Firm Partner Glenn Siegel and marks an exciting new chapter in our almost 98-year history as a personal injury law firm in Florida. “Glenn has worked in our firm for almost the entirety of his lengthy legal career,” Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser said. “He exemplifies our values of working hard to get great results for our clients with personal
Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC is proud to announce that we've been included on the list of Best Law Firms® in the Best Lawyers rankings for the 15th consecutive year. We are ranked in Regional Tier 1 of the 2025 Best Law Firms® in the practice areas of Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Insurance Law. “We are honored to yet again be recognized as one of the Best Law Firms in the country,” Managing Partner Gary Lesser said. “This distinction is a real testament to our hard work and
Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC, is pleased to announce that Attorney Mike Scott has joined the Firm and will be working out of our Stuart and West Palm Beach offices. A native of New England, Scott has spent the past decade litigating cases, primarily as a defense attorney, at firms in Florida, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Eager to work on behalf of injured clients and their families, Scott will focus his practice on representing individuals and families who have suffered serious personal injury or
West Palm Beach, FL – Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC, is proud to announce that Ethel L. Velasquez has joined the firm, Of Counsel, in its West Palm Beach office, where she will focus her practice on personal injury litigation. Raised in West Palm Beach, Velasquez is a member of the Palm Beach County Hispanic Bar Association and Palm Beach County Florida Association of Women Lawyers and volunteers her time in support of the nonprofits Latinos in Action, El Sol and Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach
A “consummate professional whose entire legal career has been defined by his personal professional conduct,” Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser was honored by his peers on March 8 with the Palm Beach County Bar Association’s Sidney A. Stubbs Professionalism Award. Attorneys Patricia Leonard and Alexcia Cox presented Lesser with the award in front of hundreds of attorneys and judges at a luncheon during the Palm Beach County Bar Association’s 2024 Bench Bar Conference. “I think this is the biggest
STUART, Fla. (December 6, 2023) – Martin County, Florida is known for being a premier family-friendly vacation destination, thanks to countless ecotourism activities, beautiful hotels, world-class restaurants, and miles of pristine coastline. However, it’s also a popular pet-friendly escape. The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing and Explore Natural Martin recognize that outdoor adventures and pets go hand-in-paw, which is why they are excited to announce the new B.A.R.K. Ranger program, which