ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS

The Fur Seasons, South Florida’s newest luxury resort for dog and cat boarding, doggie day care, spa and grooming services, training, and transportation. Our state-of-the-art 8100 Square Foot building is set amidst beautiful dog-friendly yards and is the perfect home-away-from-home for your pet, whether it’s for a day or a month.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting

Get help in preparing for the citizenship test!

The next series of weekly U.S. citizenship classes will be held September 13 through December 16 at the Blake and Robert Morgade libraries. <

Classes are free. Space is limited. Advance registration is required.

WHEN AND WHERE:

1) 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, September 13 through December 16

Blake Library, 2351 SE Monterey Road, Stuart

2) 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Thursdays, September 16 through December 16 Robert Morgade Library, Chastain Campus, Indian River State College, 5851 SE Community Dr., Stuart

HOW: No charge. Pre-registration required. Call 772-219-4960.

Enjoy magnificent St Lucie River, Inter-coastal and ocean views from some of the most beautiful Florida Indian River Lagoon waterways. Feast on freshly prepared cuisine while enjoying refreshing ocean breezes aboard our savory lunches or sparkling dining cruises. We offer the ease and convenience of reserving a lunch, dining or specialty cruise online. Purchase Captain Wolf’s gift certificates for the perfect way to let someone special experience our romantic cruises.

Contact Captain Wolf by phone at (772) 359-1123 or

Visit Cpatain Wolf on the Web

Ronald McDonald will appear at two Martin County libraries in September. Meet him and enjoy his antics as he reads stories and promotes the importance of reading!

At Sterling Mortgage Services, we take great pride in our commitment to our customer service. Even more important, we take pride in our ability to deliver that service quickly and efficiently, to homebuyers and real estate professionals.

We are a locally owned and operated company in Florida that has built a reputation for delivering results to our customers one at a time. Take advantage of simplifying the home buying process by letting Charlie Mendinhall take the guess work out of your LOAN application.

Ask for Charlie Mendinhall at 772-288-7367 or Click Here to visit Snyder Financial On The Web

The address for this event will be: 7857 SE Arrance Street, Hobe Sound

Visit Fresh 48 Roses On The Web

Jensen Beach -- St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church will host our fifth annual Memorial Blue Mass to honor and remember those who lost their lives in the devastating terror attacks on our nation on September 11, 2001. The Mass will be celebrated by Most Rev. Gerald M. Barbarito, Bishop of Palm Beach. The Blue Mass refers to the blue uniforms worn by so many public safety personnel. It is meant to honor those who daily protect and serve us. At the Mass, we will remember law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency rescue personnel who have fallen in the line of duty and pray for the safety of all officers.

Our tribute will begin at 3:30 PM with a Solemn Video and Poetry Presentation which will include Posting of Colors by Honor/Color Guards of law enforcement and fire/rescue personnel. The stirring memorial video, "Angels Over America," will be shown preceding the Mass. This uplifting tribute to 9/11 heroes and victims, written and produced by Carolyn Long, celebrates the courage and resilience that are the hallmarks of the American Spirit, while providing perspective, healing and hope. Bishop Barbarito will celebrate the Solemn Blue Mass at 4:00 PM. Immediately following Mass, we will proceed to a designated area outdoors for “21 Gun Salute” and “Taps”. All participants are invited to the San Mart’ Inn located on Parish grounds for dinner.

St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church is proud to offer the St. Martin the Charitable Scholarship to a child of a Law Enforcement Officer, Firefighter or Emergency Recue First Responder who will be attending a post-secondary educational institution. Children of New York City emergency personnel who took part in the September 11th rescue efforts are also eligible. The applicant must be a senior graduating from a local high school and will be judged on academic achievement, community service and financial need. The offerings taken during Mass will be used to fund the St. Martin the Charitable Scholarships and to help support the September 11th Memorial to be constructed at Jock Leighton Park in Palm City.

Firefighters, law enforcement officers and EMT’s in Martin County have been invited to attend along with federal, state and local elected officials. St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church is located at 2555 N.E. Savanna Road in Jensen Beach. All members of our community are invited to prayerfully join together in remembrance of those who lost their lives on that dreadful day as we continue to pray for peace, protection from evil, and for the men and women who give in service each day in defense of freedom.

At European Kitchen Sink & Bath Outlet, you'll find the very highest quality European manufactured kitchen sink and bathroom products at discount prices - from 25% to 75% off - everyday! Come peruse the showroom and discover how distinctive yet affordable your kitchens and baths can be! Innovative yet efficient fixtures that communicate distinction and functionality.

From glass and marble basins to fabulous pedestal sinks and consoles, European Sink and Bath makes the everyday delivery of water more luxurious and interesting! Yes, faucets are fun... and the team of experts at European Sink and Bath will help match their products to your lifestyle and home decor. Contact us at: 772-221-3990 or

Visit Us On The Web

Treasure Coast Multimedia is a Professional Digital Video Production company located in Downtown Stuart. With over 18 years experience, we offer Award Winning Video Production, including Videotaping, Video Editing, Duplications, and Distribution.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

Join author Patti Zelch as she reads and talks about her book, Ready, Set ... WAIT!: What Animals Do Before a Hurricane. Learn how nine Florida animals sense, react and prepare for a hurricane.

Written in response to Zelch's grandson's question about what wild animals would do during an impending storm, this well-researched debut picture book was illustrated by award-winner Connie McLennan.

Books will be available for sale and signing by the author.

For elementary age students.

Friday, September 17, 4:00 p.m.

Contact us at: 772-341-8898 or Click Here to visit Coastal PaddleBoarding On The Web

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

Stuart, FL – It’s a birthday celebration in honor of Molly Sharkey, the visionary behind Molly’s House, a 501(c)3 hospital hospitality house in Stuart, Florida. Molly’s birthday party will take place on Tuesday, September 21, 2010 from 11 AM to 1:30 PM at the Diamond Tea Room & Bistro, 3868 SE Dixie Highway, Stuart, FL. The party features a fabulous lunch, tiaras, Molly’s House trivia, door prizes, a Chinese auction and fun! Molly’s House is accepting Molly’s Wish List items at the event as well. The Wish List can be found at http://www.mollyshouse.org/Events.html. Tickets are $25 each and must be paid for in advance as seating is limited. All proceeds benefit Molly’s House. To purchase tickets or for more information call 772.223.6659.

Have you ever wanted to be a princess? You will be on September 21st. Upon entering the event, the ladies will be given tiaras and crowned princesses for a day in honor of Molly, the ultimate girly-girl that wore a tiara quite frequently. Guests will feast on delectable food and tempt their taste buds with a delicious birthday cupcake while participating in Molly’s House trivia, engaging in friendly conversation, winning door prizes and vying for the amazing Chinese auction items. Sangria, wine and Champagne is an extra fee.

Diamonds by Terry is also hosting a one hour jewelry sale on September 21st from 11 AM to Noon. The jewelry sale is open to birthday party guests and the public. All 4,000 exquisite pieces are on sale. Ten percent of each jewelry sale will be donated to Molly’s House.

Sponsors and donations for the event are provided by the Diamond Tea Room and Bistro, Diamonds by Terry and Forest Hills Funeral Home/Young & Prill Chapel. To become a sponsor or to donate an item, go to http://www.mollyshouse.org/Events.html or call Samantha at 772.223.6659 or by e-mail at admin@mollyshouse.org.

Molly’s House is a hospital hospitality house that provides temporary lodging for patients and their families who are in a medical crisis and receiving medical care on the Treasure Coast. Molly’s House services Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee counties. The house has 14 bedrooms with private baths, living room, two kitchens, laundry, chapel and outside areas for relaxing. Since opening in 1996, Molly’s House has helped more than 12,000 individuals. For more information about Molly’s House, call 772.223.6659 or visit http://www.MollysHouse.org.

Stuart -- Explore the science of archaeology for Ages 6 and older in this interactive program presented by Gregg Harding, Outreach Coordinator for the Florida Public Archaeology Network.

Find out what it takes to be an archaeologist, conduct your own “cookie” excavation, and handle real prehistoric artifacts!

Blake Library, Exploration Lab (2nd floor), 2351 SE Monterey Rd., Stuart

Presented at no charge. Pre-registration is required.

To register, please call (772) 221-1407.

Reel in a memorable adventure in Stuart, the "Sailfish Capital of the World" that is home to beachside fun, historical landmarks, and a thriving arts and entertainment community. The Hampton Inn & Suites® hotel in Stuart-North is the perfect place to anchor yourself. We are located only minutes from the beaches and within easy reach of many local attractions.

Explore the unique downtown area and Stuart Main Street, designed to be pedestrian-friendly with its array of charming shops and cafes and the weekly Stuart Green Market - and it's only minutes from our Stuart hotel. Get a different view of the area on a scenic cruise on the St. Lucie Canal, or take a picturesque drive along Jensen Beach. Our Stuart hotel also puts you close to the Hobe Sound Nature Center and Wildlife Refuge and Jonathan Dickinson State Park, where you can stroll along beautiful nature trails or take a canoe out to a deserted peninsula beach. Of course, the entire Port St. Lucie area is also a golf mecca, where you can visit the PGA (Professional Golf Association) Learning Center and also the PGA Historical Center. Take a short drive to Fort Pierce to tour the Navy UDT-SEAL Museum, the world's only museum dedicated exclusively to the elite warriors of Naval Special Warfare. Get more tips on all the area's sights from the friendly team at our Stuart hotel.

Contact us: 772-692-6922 Click Here to visit Hampton Inn On The Web

Ronald McDonald will appear at two Martin County libraries in September. Meet him and enjoy his antics as he reads stories and promotes the importance of reading!

4 Treasure Coast Locations in Stuart and South Stuart, Port St. Lucie and St. Lucie West

Martin County Library System’s Non-Fiction Book Club meets 6:30 p.m. the fourth Monday each month in the second floor Trustees Room of the Blake Library in Stuart. Join facilitator Jackie Williams and others in lively discussions on topical selections. A limited number of books are available at the Circulation desk of the library one month prior to each session. Pre-registration is not required.

For more details visit the MCLS Non-Fiction Online Book Blog on the library website, http://www.library.martin.fl.us. On the home page click Everything Books, then Book Speak.

Monday, September 27, 6:30 p.m.

Decision in Philadelphia: The Constitutional Convention of 1787

by Christopher Collier and James Lincoln Collier

Stuart -- It’s not all about softball at Halpatiokee park, It’s about community spirit and compassion. A local women’s team has set out to help save the Ta Ta’s in Martin County’s First Annual “Save the Ta-tas” Breast Cancer Awareness Women’s Softball Tournament will be held on October 2, 2010 at Halpatiokee Regional Park in Stuart . The tournament will start at 8:00am and continue all day.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Event will include a 50/50 Drawing, a Bulls Eye Bash, Homerun Derby and much more with proceeds benefiting the I Heart Boobies Foundation. Preregistration for softball teams is required. The cost per team will be $325.00 and two balls. Sponsorship and vendor opportunities are also available. Organizers are looking for sponsors wishing to donate funds that will help find a cure for breast cancer. Vendors are also welcome to participate. Event organizers would like to attract food, craft and sports related vendors.

For more information, to register your team or to become and vendor or sponsor, call Patty at 772-214-2780 or Melissa 772-812-6431.

TopNotch offers professional, personalized, ‘HomeWatch’ services, at an affordable cost, for travelling and seasonal clients in Martin County

Owners Christene and Tom Gabor will thoroughly examine and monitor your home for signs of damage or loss while you are away. They will provide you with timely updates of home visits and give you peace of mind knowing your home is being cared for by reliable and responsible people.

For more information: 772-324-8134 christene@topnotchhomewatch.com

Visit TopNotch "HomeWatch" on the web

Stuart -- The Martin County Library System will change hours of operation at four branch locations effective October 1, 2010.

In continuing to provide the best service to its patrons, the library system is making the changes to provide patrons with more evening hours Monday through Friday.

New Library Hours as of October 1, 2010

Hours for the Cummings Library in Palm City and the Hoke Library in Jensen Beach will be:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

Friday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Sunday and Monday: Closed

Hours for the Robert Morgade Library, located on the Indian River State College Chastain Campus, will be:

Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

Wednesday and Thursday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

The Hobe Sound Public Library in Hobe Sound is currently closed for repairs. The Hobe Sound Public Library Outpost, located in the Martin County Tax Collector’s office at 11734 SE Federal Highway in Hobe Sound on the northwest corner off Bridge Road and US 1, is open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Library patrons may pick up held materials and return items at this location or at any other Martin County library.

When the Hobe Sound Public Library reopens at its original location, hours will be:

Tuesday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

Sunday and Monday: Closed

Hours for the main library, the Blake Library in Stuart, and the Elisabeth Lahti Library in Indiantown will remain the same.

Blake Library hours:

Monday and Thursday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

Sunday: Closed

Elisabeth Lahti Library hours:

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

Wednesday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Sunday and Monday: Closed

For more information or to learn about the Martin County Library System call (772) 221-1403, pick up a Library Connection at any branch library or visit the library Web site at www.library.martin.fl.us.

76 Golf World provides family fun for all ages!

Spend an hour or spend the day.

The fun never stops!

Never an admission charge - always free parking!

Visit 76Golf World On The Web

Stuart Main Street announces the date for the 23rd annual Dancin’ in the Street. When: 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010 Where: Flagler Park, Downtown Stuart Admission: $10. That’s just $10 for six hours of music, entertainment food and fun. A great deal! For more information: Contact Stuart Main Street Manager Bernie Malone at 772-286-2848

Plantsman Marvin Pinder would say that trialing new varieties to find the plants that will add splendor to your garden is what makes his work most exciting. Seeing his plants flourish in yards throughout our community is what brings satisfaction to his days. Stop by to share a glass of lemonade with Marvin and see what will be new for the garden this season.

We take pride in our reputation built on more than 30 years of experience providing the pros with locally grown annuals and perennials plus advice on creating the most colorful gardens on the Treasure Coast.

Visit us at: 5500 SW Martin Hwy. Palm City, Florida 34990

Call us at: 772-781-8085

Visit Pinder’s On The Web

The concert schedule (may be subject to change): all concerts are held at North Stuart Baptist Church 1950 NW Federal Hwy, Stuart, FL34994.

BNI, or Business Network Int'l. is a business and professional networking organization that offers each member the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and referrals.

BNI is an organization that allows only one person from each profession to join a chapter. Belonging to BNI.is like.having dozens of sales people working for you.because.all the other members carry your business card around.with them. NI

Come be our guest for breakfast. We may just invite you back. We meet every Wednesday morning at Perkins on Federal Highway.

Visit BNI The Referral Connection On The Web

Martin County Library System’s Non-Fiction Book Club meets 6:30 p.m. the fourth Monday each month in the second floor Trustees Room of the Blake Library in Stuart. Join facilitator Jackie Williams and others in lively discussions on topical selections. A limited number of books are available at the Circulation desk of the library one month prior to each session. Pre-registration is not required.

For more details visit the MCLS Non-Fiction Online Book Blog on the library website, http://www.library.martin.fl.us. On the home page click Everything Books, then Book Speak.

Monday, October 25, 6:30 p.m.

The First Tycoon: The Epic Life of Cornelius Vanderbilt

by T.J. Stiles

Creech Engineers, Inc. was founded in 1988 to provide engineering for the betterment of civilization, hence our motto, “Civilization Engineered.” Today, we are a regional engineering, surveying and mapping firm providing unique, creative, cost-effective solutions for our clients and a rewarding and challenging environment for our employees.

We specialize in large commercial site development, residential and subdivision land development, stormwater management, municipal capital improvement projects, transportation engineering, traffic engineering, as well as surveying, mapping and geodetic services. We have been the recipient of a number of design awards for our innovative designs and concepts.

Our client portfolio includes Fortune 500 companies, nationally recognized residential developers, federal, state, county and local government agencies, community development districts and private developers. We are an industry leader and one of the most recognized names in the engineering and surveying business.

Contact Ken Rau, Project Engineer at: 772-283-1413 or

Visit CREECH on the Web

Jensen Beach -- Growing in popularity every year and celebrating twenty-three years in 2010, the weekend long festival salutes the community’s rich pineapple heritage and celebrates the people, visitors, and friends of Jensen Beach.

The Jensen Beach Chamber of Commerce produces the Pineapple Festival which features events for the entire family, world-class concerts, arts, crafts, midway rides, local bands, student musicians, stunt shows, and street performers.

The inaugural Pineapple Festival was held in the fall of 1988 in conjunction with the Jensen Beach Centennial Celebration. The first event drew approximately 15,000 people to the historic downtown Jensen Beach during its’ 3-day run.

In 1990 Jensen Beach and Gregory Town, Eleuthera, Bahamas established a sister city relationship. In 2010, the Festival will celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the friendship. Gregory Town residents host their own Pineapple Festival each June. During the Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival a delegation from Eleuthera creates an authentic Bahamian Market featuring island music, crafts, food, and the heart pounding rush of the Junkanoo parade.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

Stuart – You can speak easy at United for Families' newest event, but ya gotta have a password.

United for Families and MartinCounty are teaming up November 20 to present the Speakeasy at Tuckahoe, a fundraising homage to the underground drinking and gambling parlors of the prohibition era.

And we do mean underground! Guests will be contacted with a secret password prior to the event and then enter the affair through a series of underground tunnels that stretch beneath the belly of the newly restored Mansion at Tuckahoe.

"This offers a truly unique experience to MartinCounty residents," said Angela Gomez, the mansion's curator. "The basement and the tunnel system are not usually open to the public."

The mansion was built in the 1920s by one of the heirs to the Coca-Cola fortune. The tunnel was used by servants to access the house without disturbing its residents and frequent guests. The county recently completed restoration on the home, which is now the most sought-after venue in MartinCounty.

Plans for the Speakeasy began earlier this summer as a means to promote the mansion and make it more accessible to the public. Local businessman and event vendor Jim Freitis, of DiMichelli's Italian Deli and Catering and Bottom's Up Beverage, suggested that the event be crafted as a fundraiser for a local charity and recommended that the event benefit United for Families.

"We were thrilled to become a part of this," said Christina Kaiser, United for Families Community Relations Director. "We think this is going to be one of those events that resonates throughout the entire community and comes to be associated with United for Families."

The Speakeasy at Tuckahoe is set for 8 p.m., November 20, and will feature live entertainment and multiple levels of admission. An entry-level ticket will give admission to the basement and first floor of the mansion, $25 in chips and appetizers. Guests can upgrade to the High Rollers level, which will give admission to the entire house, including the exclusive top floor, a Texas Hold 'em tournament and additional tables, a seafood buffet and personal wait service.

Slots, roulette, poker and blackjack will be available throughout the mansion. At the end of the event, chips can be exchanged for raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes. Additional chips will be available for donation only.

For more information, to register for a limited seat in the Texas Hold 'Em tournament or to purchase tickets, call Gomez at 772-288-5737. Game table sponsorships also are available and offer a tremendous marketing opportunity for local businesses. Call Kaiser at 772-398-2920.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

Martin County Library System’s Non-Fiction Book Club meets 6:30 p.m. the fourth Monday each month in the second floor Trustees Room of the Blake Library in Stuart. Join facilitator Jackie Williams and others in lively discussions on topical selections. A limited number of books are available at the Circulation desk of the library one month prior to each session. Pre-registration is not required.

For more details visit the MCLS Non-Fiction Online Book Blog on the library website, http://www.library.martin.fl.us. On the home page click Everything Books, then Book Speak.

Monday, November 22, 6:30 p.m.

Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed

by Jared Diamond

Auclair & Company is a professional management consulting firm committed to providing high quality service to non profit organizations to assist them in administrative compliance, organizational efficiency and fulfilling their mission with excellence.

Louise Auclair/Sikorski 772 287-6432

Visit Auclair & Company on the Web

Click Here to visit The Martin County Convention and Visitors Bureau On The Web

Martin County -- The Martin County Parks & Recreation Department invites you to join Certified/Licensed Instructor, Skyy Della as she introduces her classes in Zumba and Intermediate Yoga.

A one-hour beginner to intermediate level Zumba class followed by a 1-1/2 hour Yoga session will begin on Friday, September 3, 2010 at the Hobe Sound Community Center. The classes are on Monday and Friday afternoons 2:00 to 4:30pm, Tuesday evenings 6:00 to 8:30pm and Sunday afternoons 3:00 to 5:30pm.

Cost is $10 per class or both classes for $15.00. A basic overall fitness level is needed to participate. Slowly new steps and moves will be added as the classes gradually become slightly more advanced, powerful and fun! Days and times may change by popular demand. Comfy clothes, tennis shoes, water and towel are suggested.

For more information about the classes or the Instructor please call the Hobe Sound Community Center at 772.546.0312

Jensen Beach -- Local Senior Living Community Organizes Support Group for Anyone Suffering from Memory Loss

If you are a caregiver of a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, or have been recently diagnosed with the disease, Emeritus @ Jensen Beach is organizing a support group for you.

In addition to peer support, the group will also invite specialists in the field who can answer questions about Alzheimer’s disease, its causes, how a diagnosis is made and current research, as well as coping mechanisms for caregivers.

Emeritus at JensenBeach staff will be available to discuss Emeritus’s unique Join Their JourneyÒ Program. There is no cost to attend this group. Everyone who is living with a friend or family member with Alzheimer’s is encouraged to attend.

Support group meetings are 2nd Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm at Emeritus at JensenBeach located at 1700 NE Indian River Dr in JensenBeach.

Please contact Emeritus at JensenBeach at (772) 225-1355 for more information.

Next meeting Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at 6:00pm.

Fort Pierce, Fla. - Heathcote Botanical Gardens is offering a series of nine seminars on vegetable gardening, beginning Saturday, August 28 at 9:00 am. The series is entitled “A Year in the OrganicGarden” and is designed to enable students to begin preparing their home gardens, and continue learning through the fall growing season and harvest time.

The classes will be led by Master Gardener Adina Lehrman, and will include both educational lecture and hands-on experience. Topics will include composting, companion planting, crop rotation, no-dig gardens, watering techniques, natural pest control, creating vertical supports for vining crops, and developing garden eco-systems. The fee for each seminar is $15 each for Heathcote members, and $20 for non-members and include hand-outs. Each seminar is a stand-alone session. The series will run from August 28 into Spring 2011. For a full schedule, and registration, visit Heathcote Botanical Gardens at 210 Savannah Road, www.heathcotebotanicalgardens.org, or call 772-464-4672.

Adina Lehrman and volunteers are maintaining the community garden at Heathcote, which has provided almost 300 pounds of fresh food to Sarah’s Kitchen this year. Community garden volunteers are welcome every Monday morning. Garden visitors are welcome Tuesday – Saturday from 9am – 5pm.

Heathcote Botanical Gardens is a non-profit organization established in 1985 on the former site of Heathcote Nursery. It was expanded in 2000 to its present 5 acres featuring gardens, environmental, and educational programs, and special events throughout the year. Individual, family and corporate memberships are available. For more information visit www.heathcotebotanicalgardens.org or call 772-464-4672

The Martin County Quilters demonstrate how to quilt. Learn how the Keepers' wives merged art, history and function into beautiful quilts. Quilt depicting the rich history of the House of Refuge will be raffled off to raise funds to create a new and permanent display at the House. The new display will celebrate the unsung heroes of the House......the Keepers' wives.

Palm City -- Are you interested in learning how to play bridge while making new friends? Well, join experienced instructor, Harry Falk for a beginner’s Bridge course at Palm City Community Center. Falk is an ACBL Certified director and teacher and has instructed at Palm City Community Center for years.

The Duplicate Bridge Classes are Monday through Friday at 12:30 to 4:30 pm. Supervised Play Mondays in from 9:00 am-12:00 pm. Beginning lessons start on Tuesdays from 9:00am to12:00pm. The cost to participate is $6.00 per person. Palm City Community Center is located at 2701 SW Cornell Avenue at the foot of the Palm City Bridge. Participation in Bridge classes offer community members opportunities for social interaction and leisure time.

To participate in Bridge or other ongoing healthy recreation programs and to find out more information about the Palm City Community Center, feel free to contact Park Staff at 219-4955 or debgladd@martin.fl.us or instructor, Harry Falk at 772- 219-4309.

Martin County, FL., December 1, 2009— Martin County Parks and Recreation Department challenges you to find your competitive edge by participating in Generation XMA; Kempo Karate and Jiu-Jitsu classes at Palm City Community Center. Come join certified instructors David Goshien, 3rd degree Balk Belt and Bryan Diaz, 1st degree Black Belt for this high energy Martial Arts Program beginning December 3, 2009. Goshien and Diaz have a combined 30 years of experience in competing and teaching Martial Arts.

Classes are held on Tuesdays– Beginner Class-5:30-6:15, Advanced Class-6:30-7:15, Open Training– 7:30-8:15, Thursdays– Beginner Class– 5:00-5:45, Advanced Class 6:00-6:45,

Fridays– Sparring Beginner Class 5:30-6:15, Advanced Class-6:30-7:15, Open Sparing-7:30-8:15 and Saturdays– Jiu-Jitsu Beginner Class-11:00-11:45, Advanced Class-12:00-12:45, Team-1:00-1:45. (Classes will be held every other Saturday)

The Palm City Community Center is located at the foot of the Palm City Bridge, 2701 SW Cornell Ave., Palm City. For more rates and additional information, or to sign up, contact the Palm City Community Center staff at 772-219-4955 or Instructor David Goshien at 772-349-2719.

HUTCHINSON ISLAND, STUART -- The House of Refuge has enlisted the help of the Martin County Quilters to preserve and celebrate its remarkable history. On the third Saturday of each month, The Martin County Quilters will be at the House of Refuge Museum to conduct a live demonstration of quilt making as done by the Keepers’ wives. Quilters will be present from 10:30 am until 1:30 pm and will gladly answer questions about the art of quilt making and importance of quilts in history. The demonstration is included with the price of admission.

Over the course of the season, the members of The Martin County Quilters will produce two “House of Refuge” quilts depicting the historical milestones of the House and its role in Martin County and maritime history. Stop in monthly, on the third Saturday, to see their progress. One of the completed quilts will be made available to the public through raffle or auction. Proceeds will fund a new permanent exhibit at the House of Refuge honoring its unsung heroes, the wives of the Keepers. The second quilt will be part of the permanent display in the House of Refuge Museum.

The Martin County Quilters organization was established in 2007 to promote knowledge of and interest in quilters and the art of quiltmaking. The group is also active in educational efforts and service projects benefitting the community and surrounding counties.

The Martin County Quilters meet on the 2nd Thursday of every month at the Temple Beit HaYam at 951 SE Monterey in Stuart from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. For further information call President Michele Sanandajian at 772 215 1584 or Vice President Stefanie Foster at 772 223 5539. You can also contact them at www.mcquilters.com The group is open to quilters of all skill levels and those interested in quilting.

Please call 772-225-1875 or check our website at www.houseofrefugefl.org for more information on the House of Refuge Museum’s quilting project.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the House of Refuge is Martin County’s oldest structure. One of ten built by the U.S. Treasury Department in 1876, the House provided safe haven to sailors of shipwrecks along Florida’s Coast. Of the ten built, the Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge is the only one that remains. More than a century of American and maritime history come together in this remarkable building and museum.

For over four decades, The Elliott Museum on Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida, has served as a cultural and educational resource for thousands of residents, tourists and automobile enthusiasts. The Elliott Museum is a celebration of innovation . . . of how creativity and ingenuity have changed lives, and made history. It is owned and operated by the Historical Society of Martin County, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting our region’s heritage. The mission of the Elliott Museum is to interpret and celebrate the genius of innovation, creativity and the historical events in Martin County and the surrounding region, all within an environment of learning and discovery.

The Historical Society of Martin County, headquartered at the Elliott Museum in Stuart, was founded in 1955 and operates both the Elliott Museum and the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar, Martin County’s oldest building. The HSMC collects and preserves American life in the context of the St. Lucie River region. A private non-profit organization, the HSMC relies on membership and charitable donations to continue the mission of educating the community about the richness of our area. The Elliott Museum houses one of the finest collections of American antiques, decorative arts, baseball memorabilia and vintage automobiles that celebrate the Golden Age of American creativity, and of course, local and Florida history.

For more information about membership in the Historical Society of Martin County please call 772-225-1961, ext. 108 or log onto www.elliottmuseumfl.org.

Stuart, FL., July 20, 2009— A family trip to Halpatiokee Regional Park will bring you back in time to Florida’s natural landscapes. The 180 acre park features nature trails, sports fields and play grounds that will satisfy any member of your family’s hunger for the outdoors. As a destination park in Martin County, it has five athletic fields, ten tennis courts, twelve pavilions, a covered in line hockey rink, picnic sites, restrooms, nature trails for hiking and biking and playgrounds.

“It is my goal to offer a large variety of sports and athletic programs and events for community members of all ages. I encourage everyone to stop by the park and enjoy the programs and outdoor activities it has to offer,” said Jesse Moore, Sports and Athletic Coordinator for the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department. Moore facilitates a number of sports leagues and sporting events such as Senior Olympic Games in November. Under his management, Halpatiokee Park is host to many State competitions such as the Law Enforcement Games in June, Fast Pitch Softball in July and Kiro Games in November.

Moore, a fitness enthusiast, coordinates a series of races every year open to all ages and skill levels. The next race will be the Beach to Beach 5K on August 21st at 7 pm beginning at Jensen Public Beach. September 12th, Halpatiokee Regional Park will play host to the Halpatiokee 5k, one of the Department’s most popular races. The Martin County ½ Marathon takes place on October 25 at 6:30 am starting at Jensen Public Beach. County staff is currently working on coupling the ½ Marathon with other activities as an eco-adventure package.

Located at 7645 Lost River Road in Stuart, Halpatiokee Regional Park has a variety of sports and athletic programs for all ages including baseball, softball, soccer, football, tennis and in-line hockey. Fall leagues for adults include hockey, softball and kickball. Youth activities for the fall include tennis instruction and in-line hockey. Pre School sports for boys and girls ages 3, 4 and 5 such as tennis, soccer and football are offered year around. Be sure to register soon as space is limited.

For more information, please contact Halpatiokee Regional Park Staff at 772-221-1419.

Stuart, FL., June 23, 2009— In an effort to help maintain parks and recreation programs that benefit children, the Treasured Lands Foundation in partnership with the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department, created the Robert F. Denison Endowment for Youth. Named after the department's first director who organized and consolidated the Parks Department into its current award-winning state, the Endowment was established to guarantee that financial restrictions do not prevent any child from benefiting from the character-building attributes of positive and healthy parks and recreation programs.

This summer, the Treasured Lands Foundation will be funding three scholarships for the Kids in Camp Program from the Robert F. Denison Endowment. The scholarships are for two children, a male and female to attend the Jensen Beach Full Service Day Camp for 10 weeks and for one child, a male to attend Theater Camp for 3 weeks.“The purpose of providing these scholarships is to afford children the opportunity to participate in active recreation through diverse and vital camp programming,” said Charles Barrowclough, Executive Director of the Treasured Lands Foundation.

The recent scholarships from the Foundation subsidize the Kids in Camp Program and total $1850.00 in camp services for participants. “We are grateful that The Treasured Lands Foundation identifies with several Martin County Parks and Recreation programs that they wish to assist,” said Richard Blankenship, Director for the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department.

The Foundation campaigns throughout the County to conserve land, support parks programming and to make certain that children inherit an enjoyment of nature’s beauty. The mission of the organization is to draw on community involvement and partnerships, to help preserve Martin County's natural resources, protect its wildlife habitats and encourage passive and active outdoor recreation by supporting public land conservation efforts and contributing to the creation of additional diverse and vibrant parks programming.

For more information about the Robert F. Denison Endowment and the Kids in Camp Program or to become a business sponsor for the Program, please contact Angela at 772-221-1418.

Stuart, FL., June 2, 2009— Travelers are encouraged to enjoy Martin County’s “good nature” this summer by booking one or all of Parks and Recreation’s new ecotourism packages featuring excursions and events. Participants will have the opportunity to participate in 5K races, bike and hike trails and tour the St. Lucie River on kayaks.

The Ibis, the first of two Summer Ecotourism Packages is a three day venture, starting June 19 and ending June 21. Travelers will participate in the South Fork Cross-Country 5K on Friday, June 19; the St. Lucie River (self-guided) Kayak Tour on Saturday, June 20 and the Halpatiokee Park River Trail 4 Mile Race on Sunday, June 21. The cost per person to register for The Ibis Package is $50 or $60 for a double kayak.

The Sandhill Crane is the second ecotourism package offered July 17 through July 19. The excursion begins with the Downtown Dash 5K on Friday, July 17. The Allapattah Flats Management Area Hike is July 18 and the Mountain Bike Expo, time trails on Halpatiokee Park Bike Trail will round out the weekend on Sunday, July 19. The cost to register for The Sandhill Crane Package is $40 per person.

Richard Blankenship, Director of Martin County Parks and Recreation Department, said the packaged ecotourism vacations are tools for travelers to mix summer events with eco adventures that will allow participants to experience the diverse landscapes of the County’s parks. With natural waterways, beaches and parks such as; Halpatiokee Park, Allapattah Flats Trail and Big Mound Park, Martin County will be marketed this summer as a premier eco adventure destination. “These locations serve as an epicenter for recreation activities and events that are summer traditions in this County,” said Blankenship.

The Martin County Parks and Recreation Department is looking to include local hotel fares into future packages. Hotels that wish to participate or get more information are encouraged to contact the Department. Local business sponsors are needed as well and will be marketed with the packages.

For more information about Summer Ecotourism Packages or to book a package, please contact Martin County Parks and Recreation Department at 772-221-1418 or 772-320-3078.

Be a charter member of the "New" Stuart Lions Club!

All community leaders interested in working together to help the community be a better place to live are invitied.

Lions are an international network of 1.3 million men and women in 202 countries and geographic areas who work together to answer the needs that challenge communities around the world.

The International Association of Lions Clubs began as the dream of Chicago businessman Melvin Jones. He believed that local business clubs should expand their horizons from purely professional concerns to the betterment of their communities and the world at large.

In 1925, Helen Keller addressed the Lions international convention in Cedar Point, Ohio, USA. She challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness." From this time, Lions clubs have been actively involved in service to the blind and visually impaired.

Contact Doris Hollins at 772-879-9676 or email: djhollins@aol.com

Meeting dates have been changed to the Last Thursday of the month at 11 a.m. Meetings for 2010 will be held at the City of Stuart in the Commission Chambers at 121 SW Flagler Ave in Downtown Stuart.

The Reserve could provide a tremendous "bonus" for sugarland acquisition, the basic purpose for which is a storage flowway south from Lake Okeechobee that would restore much of the River of Grass and relieve the two large estuaries of devastating discharges to the coasts in wet years.

March 26

April 30

May 28

June 25

July 30

August 27

September 24

October 29

You won't want to miss thees expert presentations from the experts. Mark your calendar now.

As you know, the St. Lucie estuary has been bombarded in wet years with monumental releases of polluted fresh water from Lake Okeechobee . In '05 the estuary damages reached new levels of damages, including the spread of toxic blue-green algae, dark sedimentation, excessive nutrients and other issues.

Palm City –- With the possibility of Hurricane Ike affecting this area next week, the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is urging pet owners to plan ahead. The HSTC has an agreement with Martin County officials to shelter the animals of county residents forced to evacuate due to a hurricane. The HSTC will also take in pets of EOC workers as long as they have pre-registered. The hurricane proof facility, located at 4100 SW Leighton Farm Avenue in Palm City, will be able to accommodate as many as 150 animals.

There is no charge for residents to shelter their pets, but pre-registration is required. Martin County residents who live in an evacuation zone will be able to go to the HSTC shelter to pre-register their pets. Photo identification and proof of the pet’s current vaccination records, including bordatella and rabies, are required. Pets not current will be denied boarding. Upon pre-registering, pet owners will be given forms that must be completed and brought with them when boarding their pet for the hurricane. A list of items that should be brought with the pet, such as a crate, food, and medication, will also be supplied.

“Those of us who have lived in South Florida the last few years know how vital it is for people to have a safe and caring place to leave their pets should they have to evacuate,” said HSTC Executive Director Frank Valente. “The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is here for the animals of this county.”

“We want residents to feel their pets are safe and secure with our dedicated staff working around the clock caring for the animals entrusted to our care,” said Candice Veach, HSTC director of operations.

Shelter hours are: Mon. and Tues.-10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wed.-10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Thurs., Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; and Sun.10 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information, call 772-223-8822 or

Visit us on the Web

Name of Group: Business Associates of Martin (BAM)

Description: Business networking to promote and strengthen

Martin County businesses.

Meets: Sterling Mortgage Building, 100 Albany Avenue, 3rd floor, Stuart, FL 34994

When: First Thursday of each month

Time: 8am - 9am

Cost: Free, Continental breakfast provided. Please call.

Reservations: 772.288.5251

Website: www.BAMflorida.com

CBF Gets a New Location & Offers New Opportunities for the Christian in Business

STUART -- The Christian Business Fellowship (CBF) of MartinCounty has changed venues and refocused their purpose in the community. CBF has moved to Perkins Restaurant, 2583 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL, yet still meets on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 11:30a. CBF is a group of Martin and St. Lucie County business professionals that believe that we should all, "Bloom where you are planted!” The Group was founded in August 2004, always provides a great speaker, and informs guests of local Christian events that you and/or your business can participate in. The Christian Business Fellowship of Martin County is a fellowship organization, and does not charge membership fees.

The vision of CBF is that God created every person for a very specific time and a distinct work. He has endowed them with diverse talents and abilities to be exercised for His Kingdom. The Christian Business Fellowship of Martin County equips individuals to fulfill his or her God-given Calling. Each monthly luncheon costs only $12.95pp to cover the cost of food. There is never a fee for the guest speakers that have been specifically chosen to educate, motivate, and provide valuable business insight with a Christian perspective. The mission statement of the group is to empower individuals to become Spirit-filled leaders to impact society. Each monthly luncheon provides: