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

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

In photo: Debra Conner as Zelda

Stuart -- In celebration of Women’s History Month, actress and scholar Debra Conner will portray Zelda Fitzgerald in her original one-woman play, Muse to Madness, 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 12 in the Community Room of the Hoke Library, 1150 NW Jack Williams Way, Jensen Beach. The performance is free and open to the public. No tickets or reservations are required.

Zelda Fitzgerald and her husband, writer F. Scott Fitzgerald, were the golden couple of the 1920s, epitomizing the roaring promise of the decade. They were wealthy, glamorous and talented, and their pictures were splashed across newspapers and magazines worldwide. She was America’s first flapper and served as the model for Scott’s fictional heroines. Zelda and Scott’s brilliance and their excesses defined the age. And like the decade itself, their brief, tempestuous lives ended in calamity. Beginning at age thirty, Zelda spent much of her remaining years in mental hospitals, receiving treatment for schizophrenia. She perished at age 48 in a fire at Highland Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina.

Muse to Madness allows Zelda to tell the story of her glory and her disintegration. Zelda takes her guests on a journey through memory, recounting her life as wife and muse to one of America’s greatest writers, F. Scott Fitzgerald, author of The Great Gatsby. It is, as one writer described it, “the saddest story you’ve ever heard.”

Debra Conner began portraying Emily Dickinson in 1997, thanks to a fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts. Since then, she has performed for Humanities Councils in many states, including Maryland, Ohio and Arkansas. She also has toured with the Ohio Chautauqua program and since 1998 has been part of the West Virginia Humanities Council’s History Alive! Program. Debra also conducts workshops and residencies in creative writing. Her writing has appeared in many publications.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Dick Hall Out2/Martin County.com

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In photo from left to right: Kathy Pollum, Linda Kubat, Helga Iley , Vincent Caslin, Wynne DesRuisseaux, Anna Bergalis , Pat Kilmer and in front kneeling Bill Colgan

By: Doreen poreba, the PR Czar

Stuart -- There won’t be any grunting, but there will be a lot of pigs featured at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast’s 4th Annual Spring Fling, March 12 – 14 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 2585 SE Federal Highway, Stuart. More than 60 collectible pig figurines will be for sale in ceramic, resin, glass, and as ornaments, salt & pepper shakers and pitchers.

If pigs aren’t your thing, you can discover the huge selection of spring and summer sportswear, including women’s and men’s shorts, polo shirts, summer tops, sandals, T-shirts and khakis. Designers include Ralph Lauren, Aeropostale, Pac Sun, Lilly Pulitzer and Ocean Pacific. Hundreds of new inventory items are being held just for this event.

During the sale, the Thrift Store also will launch its new raffle Item — a 30 piece set of “Department 56” reindeer and Santa’s helper’s figurine scene in pristine condition. Tickets are $5. The drawing will be held July 10 and the winner need not be present to win.

For more information, contact Thrift Store manager Terry Picciolo at 772-286-6909 or visit www.hstc1.org.

Since 1955, the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, located at 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave. in Palm City, has been the leading advocate for animal welfare in the Martin County area. A 501©3 private, nonprofit organization, the Humane Society relies on donations to support its programs and services. As a local Humane Society, HSTC is independently run from any national welfare or humane organization with no financial assistance from these groups. For more information, visit www.hstc1.org or call 223-8822.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Photo by: Doreen Poreba Out2/Martin County.com contibuting photographer

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Visit Fresh 48 Roses On The Web

Stuart, FL, January, 2010 – Spend a day surrounded by the abundant beauty of nature and shoot for the cause of protecting that very beauty at the Treasured Lands Foundation’s ‘Aim to Protect’ Sporting Clays Fun Shoot. The inaugural fundraiser promises an exciting day of friendly competition on the shooting course at the elite Quail Creek Plantation in Okeechobee. Your participation helps support the honorable mission of Treasured Lands to enhance parks programming and work to conserve land in Martin County.

The day will include a light breakfast, 100 clay shoot, BBQ-style lunch and awards ceremony. Guests will also have the opportunity to take home some great prizes with our raffles and auction. The cost to register is $100 per shooter or $380 for a squad of four.

Space is limited to the first 100 paid entrants so don’t hesitate to register to shoot at our premiere inaugural event! Visit www.treasuredlands.org and click on events to reserve your spot and to view the valuable sponsorship opportunities for this event.

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

Join us in the John F. Armstrong Wing of the Blake Library, 2351 SE Monterey Road in Stuart on Saturday, March 13 for Baseball @ the Blake, Martin County Library System’s third annual celebration of America's favorite pastime. There’s something for everyone, with a theatre performance for children at 10:00 a.m. and talks and signings by authors of books about baseball at 1:00 p.m. (Lew Paper) and 2:30 p.m. (Jane Heller). All events are free and open to the public.

Schedule: 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 13

Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth: Casey at the Bat The crowd expects Casey to knock in a home run, but has he practiced enough? Step up to the plate with reporter Nelly Kelly and the “Mudville 9” to find out in this adaptation of the E.L. Thayer poem. Recommended for children in grades K-5. Adults will enjoy, too!

1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 13

Lew Paper, author of Perfect: Don Larsen’s Miraculous World Series Game and the Men Who Made It Happen Lew Paper will discuss and sign copies of his book, Perfect, the improbable story of baseball's only World Series no-hitter between the New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers, in 1956, described by the New York Times as “the greatest moment” in World Series history. Drawing upon oral histories, contemporaneous articles, and dozens of interviews with commentators and players (including all of the surviving players for the Dodgers and Yankees), Lew Paper brings that extraordinary event to life with a pitch-by-pitch narrative that incorporates profiles of the 19 players who were on the field that day, including Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra and Jackie Robinson.

Lew Paper has written for the New York Times, the Washington Post, the New Republic and the American Scholar. He currently practices law in Washington, DC.

2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 13

Jane Heller, author of Confessions of a She-Fan: The Course of True Love with the New York Yankees Popular and prolific author Jane Heller will discuss her first non-fiction book, Confessions of a She-Fan, a chick-lit look at baseball, love and marriage, written following heated reactions to her 2007 announcement in the New York Times of her intention to divorce the New York Yankees. Determined to prove she’s a true Yankee fan, Jane spent nearly three months following her beloved team to every game, her husband in tow – only to discover she's not the fan she thought she was.

Jane Heller has written 13 novels, including Cha Cha Cha, The Club, Infernal Affairs , Sis Boom Bah, Name Dropping, Princess Charming and The Secret Ingredient, several of which were optioned for feature films. A former Martin County resident, she currently lives in Santa Barbara, California, with her husband, an architectural photographer.

Books will be available for sale and signing following each author’s talk.

For more information call 772/221-1403

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

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

Stuart -- Back by popular demand, literary dramatist Barbara Rinella will bring to life Jon Meacham’s Pulitzer-winning biography, American Lion, Andrew Jackson in the White House, 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 15 in the John F. Armstrong Wing of the Blake Library, 2351 SE Monterey Road, Stuart, as part of the Chautauqua South arts and literary series.

In this high-energy performance Barbara will highlight the hardships that created the tough and fierce backwoodsman who truly earned the nickname “Old Hickory” and rose to become the first common man to achieve the Presidency. Recognizing that life is never easy, Jackson stated simply, “I was born for a storm, a calm does not suit me!” Will his beautiful wife, Rachael, also appear to enlighten us about their exciting love, their improper marriage, and her heartbreaking—literally—treatment by the media? Will someone explain the scandal surrounding Margaret Eaton, wife of Jackson’s Secretary of War, that brought the destruction of a Presidential Cabinet and ignited the gossip mills of Washington, D.C.? Why did Jackson fight for Indian removal? Turbulent times demand strong leadership and daring decisions. Meet the amazing American Lion and hear his “roar”!

A wildly popular performer from the Chicago area, Barbara Rinella is known as an “academic entertainer.” She has portrayed Jacqueline Kennedy and Katherine Hepburn and developed programs around the Harry Potter series long before the books were well known. As an English teacher, she loves the idea of promoting reading through language and drama.

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

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Palm City, Fla. — Look for the lucky shamrock or bandana at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast and you’ll save $20 off the adoption fee on a dog, cat, puppy or kitten this St. Patrick’s Day on Wed., March 17. Instead of paying the $100 normal dog adoption fee, you’ll will pay just $80. Cat and kitten adoptions will be $30 rather than the standard $50. The promotion excludes small critters such as gerbils. You can pick the love of your life at the shelter, 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave., Palm City.

The adoption fee includes spay or neuter, 24PetWatch microchip and registration, initial vaccinations, rabies vaccination (if the pet is four months or older), heartworm test for dogs and puppies older than sixth months, a bag of Science Diet food and 30 days gift of ShelterCare Pet Health Insurance.

Since 1955, the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave. in Palm City, has been the leading advocate for animal welfare in the Martin County area. A 501(c) 3 private, nonprofit organization, the Humane Society relies on donations to support its programs and services. As a local Humane Society, HSTC is independently run from any national welfare or humane organization with no financial assistance from these groups. For more information, visit www.hstc1.org or call 772-223-8822.

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

BOCA RATON (March 4, 2010) – The Jack Miller Forum in Florida Atlantic University’s Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters presents “Thomas Paine’s American Creed in the Age of Globalization” on Thursday, March 18 at 1 p.m. The lecture, which will be presented by Thomas Walker, professor of international relations at Dartmouth College, will take place in the Student Union, and is free and open to the public.

This lecture will address how questions of free trade, democratization, intervention, and globalization relate to long-held American values of optimism and liberty. Walker will rely on the international thought of Thomas Paine, one of the leading voices of the American Founding, to provide insight to many of the quandaries facing American foreign policy in this age of globalization.

Thomas Walker teaches international relations at Dartmouth College. With colleagues at Rutgers Center for Global Security and Democracy, he co-authored Presence, Prevention, and Persuasion, a study on naval presence, published by Lexington Press (2004). His articles have also appeared in Perspectives on Politics, International Studies Quarterly, The Naval War College Review, International Studies Review and International Studies Notes. He is currently working on an edited volume of Thomas Paine’s pamphlets on international politics.

For more information, visit www.fau.edu/jackmillerforum or call 561-297-3210.

STUART, FL – On Thursday, March 18, 2010, the Christian Business Fellowship (CBF) of Martin County will welcome Mr Mike Gonzalez. The CBF meets monthly in the Elliott Room of the Ramada Inn in Stuart. Instead of focusing on what makes people different, Mike Gonzalez has become a great communicator by understanding what we all have in common. With over twenty-five years in broadcasting and Christian ministry, understanding and encouraging people is what Mike really cares about. He knows what it takes to bring out the best in people.

Because Mike's life experiences have made him a great student, he has become a great motivator and Bible teacher. Mike has allowed life to shape him and mold him into somebody who can do everybody some good!

As a broadcaster, Mike is using his years of experience, technical expertise and understanding of God's grace to reach people near and far with the Gospel through various forms of media.

Mike serves as General Manager of WFGC Television, a full-power television station licensed to Palm Beach, Florida, and an affiliate of the Christian Television Network.

The CTN South Florida affiliate also develops many other media technologies that are being used for the global spread of Christianity.

To sign up for monthly notices regarding the luncheons and other local events, please see the messaging center at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cbfmartincounty or contact, Jeannie Ferrara, Public Relations at: jmfministry@aol.com. LiveJournal, Yahoo! messaging, and all publicity (2006-2009) courtesy of: Thy Word Public Relations, www.thywordpublicrelations.com.

Please remember, all luncheons are open to the general public. You do not need to be a member to attend! No invitation is necessary, yet reservations are strongly suggested as seating is limited. For more information how you might also join us for the next Christian Business Fellowship Luncheon; (always the 3rd Thursday of the month) at the Ramada Inn on US One in Stuart, FL., and is $16.00 pp. Please R.S.V.P. John Demaree - Coordinator Christian Business Fellowship of Martin County; 772-286-6972 jdemaree@ftak.com.

For more information how you might also join us for the next Christian Business Fellowship Luncheon; (always the 3rd Thursday of the month) at the Ramada Inn on US One in Stuart, FL., and is $16.00 pp. Please R.S.V.P. John Demaree - Coordinator Christian Business Fellowship of Martin County; 772-286-6972 jdemaree@ftak.com. No invitation needed, yet reservations are suggested

Plans for Sailfish Park Government Center and Baseball Fields will be Considered

STUART -- East Stuart Main Street will host a special Community Meeting, Thursday, March 18 at 7:00 p.m. at the 10th Street Recreation Center in Stuart. The meeting will focus on new developments in East Stuart, including a proposed government center on Martin Luther King Boulevard and possible expanded baseball fields at Guy Davis Field on 10th Street.

“These projects would jumpstart East Stuart’s redevelopment, providing jobs and professional role models for the youth of the community,” said Main Street Board President Philip Harvey. “We want everyone in East Stuart to let local officials know we support these developments one-hundred percent.”

East Stuart Main Street is a private, non-profit organization established to take the lead in the redevelopment and preservation of the historic commercial neighborhood of East Stuart. The program is authorized by Florida Main Street. Goals of the organization include creating a positive image for the community through outreach, education, special events, and economic development. For more information, or to become a member, please call 772-600-1248 or 772-485-9568.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

Make plans to join us in March for the Martin County 2010 Luncheon: "Life's a Beach!" It's a day of friends, fun, a silent auction, raffle and much more.

Mariner Sands Country Club, 6500 Mariner Sands Dr., Stuart, FL

Call us at (772) 223-6351 for sponsorship opportunities.

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

Actors Peg O’Keef and Joe Reed will give two performances of Parallel Lives: Stories of a Divided World Friday, March 19, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., in the John F. Armstrong Wing of the Blake Library, 2351 SE Monterey Road., Stuart, as part of Martin County Library System’s Chautauqua South arts and education series and The Big Read project. The events are free and open to the public. No reservations or tickets are required. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bill Maxwell will join the actors in a discussion following each performance. Because of language and subject matter, the shows are recommended for mature audiences.

Actors O’Keef and Reed will portray the play’s authors, Beverly Coyle and Bill Maxwell. The protagonists grew up only miles apart but were segregated into different worlds. Years later, the two unlikely colleagues tour Florida’s historic “lynching belt” to confront the legacy of Jim Crow in their pasts and just under their skins. Filled with humor and courage, Parallel Lives creates thunderous resonance in these remarkable times.

Co-authors Beverly Coyle and Bill Maxwell came together in 1998 when the Florida Humanities council commissioned each of them to write an essay recording their memories of being the last generation to grow up in legally segregated Florida. In 2002, the St. Petersburg Times gave the Florida Humanities Council a grant so Coyle and Maxwell could turn their readings into a full-fledged play. This production was remounted at Seminole Community College in 2008 and directed by Jerry Klein.

Peg O’Keef is a native Floridian. Central Florida performance credits include The Lion in Winter, The Year of Magical Thinking, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, Angels in America, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf ?and many others. Peg has directed numerous productions in the Orlando area. She teaches at Rollins College and the University of Central Florida. In her free time she gardens and edits materials for the Florida Film Festival.

Actor Joe Reed is both an active stage actor and accomplished screen actor with feature film, TV and major commercial credits. A product of Asbury Park, NJ, Joe is a veteran of the U.S. Army, where he was a pilot in Vietnam. In addition to performing at Central Florida venues, he teaches college psych.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

An all-ages retro single fin and longboard surf contest set for March 20 at Stuart Beach presented by John Pierson's Toyota of Stuart, Martin County Parks & Recreation Department and Ohana Surf Shop to benefit United Way of Martin County.

Call (772) 287-0041, (772) 287-4800

The Mutt Derby will include free doggie nail trims, pet adoptions, pet first aid, mini shops and a silent auction all to benefit The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast.

The event is 9:30 a.m. 1 p.m. Call 772-286-8283 or visit www.thefurseasonsresort.com.

The dogs will race by weight class. The Fur Seasons is located at 1310 SW Treasure Coast Commerce Way in Stuart. Admission is free. There is a nominal charge to enter your dog into the race. Proceeds will benefit The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast.

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

BOCA RATON -- The Center for Body, Mind and Culture and the French program in the department of languages, linguistics, and comparative literature in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters at Florida Atlantic University are hosting a bilingual international conference titled, “French Cultures of Embodiment,” on March 26 and 27, in the Majestic Palm, Student Union Building, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton campus.

This conference will examine the diverse styles of embodiment in the plurality of French-speaking cultures that range far beyond the French territory of Europe, extending into Africa, Asia and the Americas. It will also explore the plurality of embodied arts and aesthetic practices in these different French-speaking cultures through dance, music, drama, architecture, fashion, cosmetics, cuisine, film, performance, poetry and other literary genres. The conference, which is open to the public, will feature a group of distinguished scholars representing eight countries, including France, Denmark, Ireland, Canada, Germany, Poland, New Zealand and the U.S. These scholars represent various renowned American universities including Purdue University, Princeton University, the University of Iowa and the University of Cincinnati. Scholars from the Sorbonne and the French Caribbean will also be participating in this conference, which is supported by the French Embassy in Washington, DC and the French Consulate in Miami. Among the many themes discussed will be issues of sexuality and gender, gesture, body and spirit, and how these themes play out in visual art, literature and cinema.

“This conference is a continuation of the Center’s partnership with France, and our commitment to collaborative transdisciplinary and multicultural research in intersections of body, mind and culture,” said Dr. Richard Shusterman, the Dorothy F. Schmidt Eminent Scholar in the Humanities and director of FAU’s Center for Body, Mind and Culture. “French traditions extend beyond continental France, and through this conference, we will be able to explore the global dimensions of this far-reaching and fascinating culture. We are very happy to be doing this conference with the French program in our college.”

The Center for Body, Mind and Culture is committed to the project of enhancing global understanding through research, international scholars and international conferences with transcultural themes. This is the Center’s sixth conference since its inception in 2007. The Center also runs a monthly coffee colloquium during the academic year.

There is no registration fee for the conference. Advanced registration and reservations are not required, but are recommended. To register for the conference and be added to the Center’s email mailing list, send an e-mail to bodymindculture@fau.edu or contact 561-297-0851.

For more information, visit www.fau.edu/bodymindculture and click on “conferences.”

Out2martincounty.com is a photo journal featuring people, "Who they are, what they do and where they do it".

Do you have something to say, an event to talk about? An event you would like me to cover? Do it here! Email your story or request to me at rshall@out2martincounty.com

Out2martincounty.com adheres to full compliance with C.O.P.P.A. (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998)

"Martin County's Photo Journal"

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Stuart -- The Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Sunlight Saddle and Polo Club, located at 6650 SW Kanner Highway, just west of Stuart.

The U.S. Polo Association recently awarded the Sunlight Saddle and Polo Club with the prestigious Governor's Cup Tournament, sponsored by Wells Fargo Advisors. This week of high-quality play will culminate with a final day of matches and presentation of the awards on Saturday, March 27th. Sunlight is donating a generous portion of the proceeds from the Governor's Cup to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County!

So, please join us for a day of polo! With gates opening at 11 a.m., there are a variety of affordable ways to enjoy the day watching the Sport of Kings while also supporting our future leaders! Admission options include: * VIP Tables of 10, including a traditional Argentinean asado barbecue lunch, complimentary wine and beer and two "premium drink" tickets per patron -- all for just $1,000. * Use of a 10x10 tailgating tent along the sidelines of the polo field for eight friends (bring your own drinks and food) -- for just $250. *General admission tickets (food and drink will be available for purchase) are $20. Children under 12 are admitted free! This exciting sport is relatively new to Martin County, so come enjoy a day of polo (without the drive to Wellington!) Learn more or purchase tickets by calling the Sunlight Saddle and Polo Club at (772) 781 -5429.

“Heart Health”

Keynote Speakers:

Mehdi Razavi, MD Senior Staff and Distinguished Chair Holder Robert and Suzanne Tomsich Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Cleveland Clinic

&

Amy Eversole, MD Cardiovascular Specialist Stuart Cardiology Group, PA

Tuesday, April 6, 2010 5:30 P.M. Cocktails 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. Program & Dinner

at

Pietro’s on the River 8735 S Ocean Drive Jensen Beach, FL 34957

Tickets: $50 per person Includes 3–course dinner & glass of wine Proceeds benefit VIM Clinic

VIM VOICE SPEAKER SERIES

VIM Voice is an educational speaker series organized by Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) Clinic to provide a unique opportunity to hear some of the area’s most prominent voices discuss health and wellness issues of concern to our local community.

“HEART HEALTH”

The Spring 2010 VIM Voice dinner focuses on Heart Health with keynote speakers Mehdi Razavi, MD, Senior Staff and Distinguished Chair Holder, Robert and Suzanne Tomsich Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Cleveland Clinic and Amy Eversole, MD, Cardiovascular Specialist at Stuart Cardiology Group, PA. Also in attendance will be many of our community’s local heart health resources, including: The American Heart Association, Frances Langford Heart Center at Martin Memorial, The Tobacco–Free Partnership of Martin County and The Quit Doc Research & Education Foundation.

We support Leukemia/Lymphoma Golf Tournament and Wine Tasting.

The day will consist of a putting contest, shotgun scramble with hole-in-one, closest to the line and closest to the pin prizes followed by a hot buffet luncheon, awards, prizes and a silent auction. All of the proceeds raised will go to help the children right here in Martin County!

We invite the community to help us help the children and once again make this annual fund raiser a successful event! Please save the date!

Contact Dale Hoffa Tournament Co-Chair at 772-220-8865 or BOB Fowler Co-Chair at 772-309-0210

The CHARACTER COUNTS! approach to character education doesn't exclude anyone. That's why we base our programs and materials on six ethical values that everyone can agree on — values that are not political, religious, or culturally biased.

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, FL., December 22, 2009— 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 starts on Mondays in November from 9:00 am-12:00 pm. Beginning lessons start on Tuesdays in January 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.

2009/2010 Schedule

February 21, 2010 - Puccini, Missa Di Gloria

March 13, 14, and 21, 2010 - Isn't It Romantic

May 22, 23 and 30, 2010 - Without A Song

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. Upcoming dates to see the quilting demonstration are November 21st and December 19th.

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 2009 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

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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