For Immediate Release: October 14, 2026Contact: Governor’s Press Office, (850) 717-9282, media@eog.myflorida.com Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Tourism Support to Northwest Florida Following Hurricane Isaias TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced a $1 million investment through VISIT FLORIDA to support tourism recovery efforts in Northwest Florida following Hurricane Isaias. The funding will be awarded to the Northwest Florida Tourism Council to resume the
Sen. Rick Scott Shares Hurricane Isaias Resources Dear Fellow Floridian, As Florida begins our recovery from Hurricane Isaias, my office is committed to making sure Floridians have access to the tools and federal resources necessary to rebuild. This was a major storm, and it demands a well-coordinated response and recovery effort. Just as I have for the past week, I remain in constant communication with President Trump and our federal partners, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency
Small Business Workshop Trust-Based Marketing: Building Credibility, Authority, and Demand October 28, 2026 @ 12:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopTrust-Based Marketing: Building Credibility, Authority, and Demand In today’s noisy marketplace, small businesses don’t just need more visibility—they need more trust. Buyers are overwhelmed by ads, skeptical of sales tactics, and selective about
No Camera, No Problem: An Interactive Faceless AI Video WorkshopOctober 21st @ 6:00PM I Fee: $10Location:Online WorkshopRegister NowThis session empowers camera-shy entrepreneurs to break through the intense barrier of visibility by mastering the art of faceless video creation. Participants will explore a variety of high-impact formats—from screen recordings and slide decks to B-roll and animation—that make it possible to create engaging content and powerful storytelling without ever appearing on screen. By
Trouble viewing? View in your browser. Small Business Workshop Hiring Your First Salesperson: A Solopreneur’s Playbook October 21, 2026 @ 9:00 am EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopHiring Your First Salesperson: A Solopreneur’s Playbook Hiring your first salesperson is one of the biggest growth decisions a business owner can make — and one of the riskiest. A poor hire can cost $150K+ and set growth
View this email in your browserCLICK HERE TO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTSOctober 2026 Community Calendar Pancakes & Prostates Join us for breakfast and an informative discussion about one of the most important aspects of men’s health. Prostate conditions are common as men age, yet many questions and concerns often go unaddressed. Our expert physicians will discuss prostate health, screening recommendations, common conditions, and the latest advances in diagnosis and treatment. Learn what symptoms to watch for,
For your convenience...please see the following James Madison Institute Voter Guide for the Nov. 2026 ballot amendments. TABLE OF AMENDMENTS TYPETITLESUBJECTDESCRIPTIONFlorida LegislatureAmendment 1State Budget / Fiscal PolicyRaises the cap on Florida's budget stabilization ("rainy day") fund from 10% to 25% of general revenue, requires annual transfers into the fund, and sets conditions for withdrawals.Florida LegislatureAmendment
The Mayfield Minute - October 11, 2026Good Morning!National Manufacturing WeekNational Manufacturing Week highlights the vital role American industry plays in driving innovation, creating high-quality jobs, strengthening national security, and maintaining global economic competitiveness. Launched by the Manufacturing Institute in 2011, National Manufacturing Week aims to showcase modern, high-tech manufacturing careers, challenge outdated stereotypes of the industry, and inspire the next generation of
Sen. Rick Scott Shares Hurricane Isaias ResourcesDear Fellow Floridian,We are just hours away from Hurricane Isaias impacting Florida’s Gulf Coast. Now is the time for all Floridians, especially those in the Panhandle, to take steps to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their homes.Floridians in the Panhandle should be ready for: life-threatening storm surge, strong winds and potential tornadoes, and heavy rainfall and flooding. Please listen to local officials! If they say evacuate, then GET OUT.
Did you happen to catch Molly’s House on WPTV? We’re still smiling about it. As part of our 30th anniversary, WPTV’s T.A. Walker stopped by Molly’s House to shine a light on the families who walk through our doors—and the dream that started it all 30 years ago. [WATCH THE STORY] The story features some familiar faces, including Molly’s sister Kate and
FEMA is awarding Florida more than $46.4 million for projects that will prevent, eliminate or reduce future disaster-related damage. The efforts will focus on cost-effective residential mitigation projects statewide, including work on 62 homes through elevations, property acquisitions, demolitions and reconstruction of eligible homes. The wheels of the bus fall off!Commissioner Capps is a frustrated teacher!Great job if you can get it!Tax rate remains the same, but BOCC gets $41,404,488 more of your tax
Join the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) for upcoming public meetings in the next few weeks. For a list of all upcoming meetings, check out our Meeting Calendar. Meeting agendas are available at least seven days in advance. Meeting format varies for each meeting, and some meetings may be in-person only, virtual only, or a hybrid of both formats, so be sure to check the "Meeting Information" for details. SFWMD Public
Krystal and Her Three Children Have A New Way Forward Think about a typical single morning with three children: school drop-offs, a shift that starts on time, a doctor's appointment in the afternoon, groceries on the way home. Now picture doing all of it without a mode of transportation. For Krystal, a mom in our Transitional Independent Living Program, that was
B20 USA 2026The Premier Gathering of the World’s Business and Policy Leaders This November 9–11, global business leaders will converge on Washington D.C.'s iconic Wharf District for the B20 Summit. The B20 USA Campus will feature the big conversations, networking, and unprecedented access to the most influential names in business—taking delegates beyond the headlines to tackle today's challenges and seize tomorrow's opportunities. We're pleased to share a first look at the agenda,
View as a webpage here Submit Written Comments for the Draft 2026–2036 DuPuis Management Area General Management PlanThe South Florida Water Management District is encouraging our partners, stakeholders and the public to provide written comments on the Draft 2026–2036 DuPuis Management Area General Management Plan.View the Draft 2026-2036 DuPuis Management Area General Management Plan.The deadline to submit comments is Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. All comments must be emailed to
Joseph -This week is Fire Prevention Week and a good opportunity for all of us to take stock of how prepared we are if the unthinkable happens.First, fire safety starts at home. Map out an escape plan with your family, test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and replace the worn wiring and overloaded outlets that spark so many household fires. This year, the National Fire Protection Association is focused on one more: charging safely. Phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters all run
No Camera, No Problem: An Interactive Faceless AI Video WorkshopOctober 21st @ 6:00PM I Fee: $10Location:Online WorkshopRegister NowThis session empowers camera-shy entrepreneurs to break through the intense barrier of visibility by mastering the art of faceless video creation. Participants will explore a variety of high-impact formats—from screen recordings and slide decks to B-roll and animation—that make it possible to create engaging content and powerful storytelling without ever appearing on screen.
October 5, 202614th Edition From the Desk of Christine StormYour Property Tax Dollars Help Children Succeed Across the Treasure Coast, your property tax dollars help children grow, families thrive, and parents find support when they need it most. Through the Children’s Services Councils of Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee Counties, these investments provide 37% of Helping People Succeed’s revenue and make vital local services possible. Behind the numbers in this graphic are
October 2026Employers Stay Optimistic About Hiring Despite AI Concerns Many employers plan to maintain or increase hiring despite ongoing concerns around AI adoption and talent shortages. As AI skills become more valuable in the workforce, leaders should prioritize workforce planning, upskilling, and adaptable hiring strategies.Competitive Pay Still Matters; Don’t Let It Cost You Top Talent Competitive compensation remains a key differentiator in attracting and retaining skilled
Live Online WorkshopsFearless Visibility: The Mechanics and Mindset to Finally Press RecordOctober 13th @ 10:00AM I Fee: $10Location:Online WorkshopRegister NowIn this comprehensive session, video strategist and coach Edie Clarke and hypnotist and coach Heather Jones join forces to help service-based entrepreneurs dismantle the barriers to going live. By introducing a clear "visibility ladder," attendees learn to build confidence incrementally, starting with faceless videos and screen recordings. This
AI: A Plain-English Guide for You to Start Using AI in Your Small BusinessAI: A Plain-English Guide for You to Start Using AI in Your Small Business October 20, 2026 @ 11:00am Central TimeCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopREGISTERYou've heard about AI. You may have even tried it. But if you're being honest, you're not entirely sure you're doing it right — and you have a nagging feeling there's a lot you don't know
View this email in your browser.Dear Friends, Florida Atlantic continues to reach new heights, giving our entire community more reasons to celebrate. You are part of the momentum we are building together. For the second consecutive year, Florida Atlantic is ranked among the nation’s Top 100 public universities by U.S. News & World Report, marking another step forward as a leading public research university. We are also thrilled to announce that our FAU Lab Schools — A.D. Henderson
Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel has become a fourth-generation personal injury law firm with the admission of Lillian J. Lesser to The Florida Bar.Lillian Lesser, great-granddaughter of founder Joseph Lesser and eldest daughter of Managing Partner Gary Lesser, was sworn in Friday by Palm Beach County Circuit Court Judge Carolyn Bell.“Watching Lillian take the oath and join our firm as an attorney is a moment I will always treasure,” Gary Lesser said. “I had the privilege of practicing alongside my father in
Fighting for the American Dream Sen. Rick Scott Rolls Out “Rescuing America” Platform to Make Homeownership More AffordableU.S. Senator Rick
Safety. Solidarity. Solutions.Everyone deserves to feel safe at home. For someone experiencing domestic violence, knowing where to turn for help is an important first step. Having access to support and services makes it possible to take the next one.This October, SafeSpace invites you to join us for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout the month, we’ll share information and resources to help our community recognize abuse, support survivors and turn awareness into action.You can be part of this
This month I’ve not the time to pour my heart out. I would, however, like to share with you how the strength of belonging improves lives and how you can help. As we work alongside families experiencing homelessness, our goal is never simply to help them find housing.At Family Promise, we are committed to helping parents and children build the skills, confidence, relationships, and support systems they need to achieve lasting independence and, hopefully, never experience homelessness again.This month,
View this email in your browser2026 Cancer Survivorship ProgramOctober & November Classes Medicare, Financial Assistance, and ResourcesWe understand the financial burden a cancer diagnosis can bring. Join us and meet our financial counselor and the Area Agency on Aging SHINE liaison worker. Learn about Medicare and the services SHINE provides, financial assistance services through the medical center and resources for rent, utilities assistance and more. Featuring Jennifer Maldonado, Financial
Trouble viewing? View in your browser.Small Business Workshops | October 5-12October 5, 6:00pm EDTFranchising: A Business Strategy for Creating WealthLearn how franchising works as a strategy and which traits support successful ownership.REGISTEROctober 5, 6:00pm EDTFrom Intimidation to Implementation: Making AI Work for Your Small BusinessLearn how to implement AI effectively and responsibly in practical business operations.REGISTEROctober 6, 5:00pm EDTEffective Employee Selection, Interviewing &
Safety. Solidarity. Solutions.Everyone deserves to feel safe at home. For someone experiencing domestic violence, knowing where to turn for help is an important first step. Having access to support and services makes it possible to take the next one.This October, SafeSpace invites you to join us for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout the month, we’ll share information and resources to help our community recognize abuse, support survivors and turn awareness into action.You can be part of this
Martin County Commissioner Sarah HeardDistrict 4 Newsletter, October 5, 2026Dear Friends, Election Day is looming and an important Constitutional Amendment is on the ballot, Amendment 3. Amendment 3 proposes to decrease the amount of property taxes assessed on homestead-ed residential properties. If passed by 60% of Florida's voters, Amendment 3 will have significant impacts on services in counties like Martin that are heavily dependent upon residential property taxes. The
October 2, 2026U.S. Chamber ActionStand Up for Free EnterpriseThe Free Enterprise Express Is on the RoadShop owners, contractors, and coffee roasters tell us what free enterprise means to them.The U.S. Chamber's Free Enterprise Express Opportunity Tour is traveling across America—stopping in towns and cities to hear directly from the business owners and workers who make the free enterprise system work. Why it matters: Free enterprise is the surest path to opportunity, affordability, and better
Out in the Community2025 Treasure Coast Real Estate DataAddress Change RequestProposed Property Tax AmendmentOn November 3, 2026, Florida voters will be asked to vote on the proposed constitutional amendment. If approved by at least 60% of the voters, it will increase the 2027 homestead exemption to $150,000 on non-school taxes for property owners who were permanent Florida residents on or before December 31, 2026, and will reduce the non-homestead 10% cap to 5%. To learn more about this proposed
Trouble viewing this email?Click here. September 2026Michael Twardowski, Ph.D., Named Edwin A. Link Endowed Professor Michael Twardowski, Ph.D., an internationally recognized expert in optical oceanography and marine sensing technologies, has been named the Edwin A. Link Ocean Technology and Defense Endowed Professor at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. This first endowed professorship at FAU Harbor Branch was made possible through the generous support of the
2026 Human Trafficking Summit Now Available The 2026 Human Trafficking Summit has officially launched, bringing together local, state, and national leaders to share expertise, emerging trends, promising practices, and strategies to strengthen Florida’s response to human trafficking. Presented by the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking and its partners, the free, virtual Summit features sessions focused on legal issues, service delivery, and education and awareness.
For nearly two decades, the Florida Chamber Annual Insurance Summit has brought together Florida's business leaders, insurance professionals, regulators, lawmakers and key stakeholders for timely discussions on the issues shaping our state's insurance market. Join us December 10–11 in Orlando for our 19th year as we examine the latest market trends, regulatory developments and opportunities ahead. From property and auto insurance to reinsurance, catastrophe risk, litigation and emerging
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Small Business Workshop Ten Pillars to Building a Successful Company October 7, 2026 @ 12:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopTen Pillars to Building a Successful Company This course introduces the 10 critical Pillars every entrepreneur should understand to build, strengthen, and grow a successful company. While participants will gain exposure to all 10 Pillars, the session will take a deeper
Former City of Stuart mayor appointed interim executive director of the Business Development Board of Martin CountySTUART—The Business Development Board of Martin County is proud to announce the appointment of Troy McDonald as interim executive director.McDonald was unanimously appointed to the role at the BDBMC’s Sept. 23 board of directors meeting.McDonald—who previously served in public office for more than a decade, including four years as mayor of Stuart—joined the BDBMC staff in 2025 as its director
Joseph -Any parent who's ever wondered whether their child is getting the education they deserve knows we can do better.When Republicans passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act last year, we created the first-ever federal school choice program: the Education Freedom Tax Credit. It's simple. You donate to a scholarship organization here in Florida, and every dollar—up to $1,700—comes straight off your federal tax bill. Those donations fund scholarships for K–12 students, and the money follows the child.
REGISTERBOOK HOTELSPONSORLess Than A Month Away from Florida's Premier Annual Leadership Event! Register now. A Plan for Making America More AffordableWith affordability remaining one of the biggest challenges facing Florida families and businesses, we look forward to welcoming Rick Scott, U.S. Senator and Former Governor of Florida, to the 2026 Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber Annual Meeting, to lead a conversation focused on a simple question: How do we make the American dream affordable
September 2026 Community Foundation Launches 2027 Competitive Grantmaking Cycle on Nov. 1The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties has announced the launch of its 2026-2027 competitive Community Impact grantmaking cycle, offering nonprofit organizations serving Palm Beach and Martin Counties the opportunity to apply for funding to support programs, operations and organizational growth. Applications open November 2, 2026 and close December 18, 2026 at 5 p.m. Grant
View this email in your browserCLICK HERE TO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTSOctober Women's Health Series Advances in Breast Health & Breast Cancer Join us at La Posada for part of the Doc Talk Speaker Series, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Learn about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, the importance of knowing your family history, and what it means to be at higher risk. Discover the latest advances in breast imaging, including contrast-enhanced mammography, and practical
Your Business. Florida's Future.As a Florida job creator, you have a stake in keeping Florida competitive for the people, businesses and investment that support your company's continued growth.The Florida Chamber recently brought our Free Enterprise Florida competitiveness campaign to Illinois as part of a broader effort to highlight the policies and economic outcomes shaping competition between states for people, businesses and investment.And we took that message directly to Illinois: People and
September 2026 Welcome back to the Small Business Insider, the go-to resource for essential information that empowers and connects Florida’s local businesses and is made exclusively available to members of the Florida Chamber Small Business Council.ICYMI: September Webinar Discussion on Amendment 3, Elections & Florida's Economic Outlook The Small Business Council met virtually on Wednesday, September 16, to receive updates on Florida’s economy from Sheridan Morby, Senior Director of Economic Research for
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – The Jewish Lawyers Association of Palm Beach County recently installed Heather Greenhill Stohlman as President for the 2026-2027 term, and honored Founding President Gary S. Lesser for two years of leadership. The leadership transition was celebrated during JLAPBC’s Sept. 9 Installation and Reception, which included the swearing in of the organization’s 2026–2027 Executive Board and Board of Directors.Stohlman presented Lesser with the inaugural Tzedek Award, recognizing his
It's GAMEWEEK In Paradise;Owls Look To Remain Undefeated At Home Florida Atlantic football returns home for another game under the lights of Flager Credit Union Stadium this Saturday, October 3rd, presented by Baptist Health.The team hosts Texas Southern at Howard Schnellenberger Field and kick off is slated for 6:00 p.m. The Owls are undefeated at home and we need YOU to support your Hometown Team this weekend. Bring your family, friends, and the
The Mayfield Minute - September 27, 2026Good Morning!Today, our nation observes Gold Star Mother’s and Family's Day in support of grieving mothers and families whose loved ones were lost while serving in the military. We honor the memory of sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, and all relatives who courageously gave their lives to defend our nation. In 1928, Grace Darling Seibold, whose son George died in WWI, founded American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. to support
Share the excitement that you are a proud member of the TCBA!IndexBuilder NewsHouse Bill Seeks Tariff Relief for Building MaterialsNAHB Responds as Immigration Enforcement Keeps Legal Workers Off Job SitesIndian River County Permit System — Current StatusMember Directory2027 TCBA Member Directory in the WorksTCBA in ActionBuilder Breakfast in Martin CountyBlue Collar Big Dollar ConcertUpcoming EventsAnnual Golf TournamentFuture EventsUpcoming MeetingsBuilder Breakfast in St. LucieBuilder Breakfast in
Defying The Odds: Will's Story When Will Clervil Tiano first came to us many years ago, he was missing the one thing our name promises. "It's kind of ironic that the name of the group home is called Place of Hope," Will said, "because that was the one thing I was missing was hope." Before Will found his way to us, he spent years growing up homeless with his mother and brother, often staying in
State Road (S.R.) A1A from NE Shore Village Ter to S.R. 732/Jensen Beach Causeway Resurfacing, Restoration, & Rehabilitation (RRR) Project Weekly Construction & Lane Closure Update CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES Drainage operationsPavement widening operations LANE CLOSURE INFORMATION:Drivers should expect the following closures throughout the work zone. Monday, September 28, through Friday, October 2: Intermittent single lane closures along S.R. A1A within the project
Fall Satellite Media Tour Puts Florida in National Spotlight To position Florida as a top autumn getaway, VISIT FLORIDA recently spearheaded a nationwide Satellite Media Tour (SMT) celebrating the state’s vibrant seasonal seafood, fall adventures, and can't-miss festivals & events. The SMT has generated more than 17.3 million impressions already! Partnering with Food Network star, two-time Chopped champion, and cookbook author Chef James
FLORIDA BY THE NUMBERS Federal Reserve Raises Fed Funds Rate as Florida's Labor Market Shows Continued Signs of Strength The September 2026 edition ofFlorida By The Numbersis now available. Florida's latest economic data shows continued job growth, while also highlighting important trends in unemployment, housing, inflation, and interest rates.Florida Chamber Foundation Senior Director of Economic Research, Sheridan Morby, breaks down what the latest numbers mean for Florida and why these economic trends
Trouble viewing? View in your browser.Small Business Workshops | September 24 - October 10September 24, 12:00pm EDTSEO in 2026: Is Your Website Still Getting Found?REGISTERSeptember 28, 6:00pm EDTSales 101 - Increasing Your Sales Skills Increases Your RevenueREGISTERSeptember 28, 6:00pm EDTHow Government Contracts Really Work (And Why Most Businesses Miss Out)REGISTERSeptember 28, 6:00pm EDTSourcing Capital For Your New or Existing BusinessREGISTERSeptember 29, 12:00pm EDTCreative Marketing
Small Business Workshop Small, Minority and Women Owned Business Workshop October 1, 2026 @ 6:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopSmall, Minority and Women Owned Business Workshop Grow your business with the city, state, and other agencies. Become certified as a Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (EBE) Locally-based Business Enterprise (LBE). Companies that become
ICYMI: Florida Chamber Small Business Council WebinarFeaturing H. French Brown IVSeptember’s Small Business Council Meeting Equips Attendees for the 2026 General Election with a Better Understanding of Florida’s Property Tax System, Constitutional Amendments, and Election Updates Click the thumbnail above to view the webinar slides.The Small Business Council met virtually on Wednesday, September 16, to receive updates on Florida’s economy from Sheridan Morby, Director of Economic Research for the Florida
News from Congressman Brian Mast RECOGNIZING NATIONAL ESTUARIES WEEKJoseph -Florida water is essential to our way of life. It’s what makes Florida great, and why so many people want to call it home. Our ecosystems here in south Florida are amongst the most unique on the planet and are home to numerous species of animals and plants that can only be found in the estuaries. In fact, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, estuaries play a huge role not just in the
Trouble viewing? View in your browser. Small Business Workshop Ten Pillars to Building a Successful Company October 7, 2026 @ 12:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopTen Pillars to Building a Successful Company This course introduces the 10 critical Pillars every entrepreneur should understand to build, strengthen, and grow a successful company. While participants will gain exposure to all 10
Join SafeSpace for the Domestic Violence Summit: From Awareness to Action, a first-of-its-kind regional training bringing professionals together to strengthen our community’s response to domestic violence and help create safer outcomes for survivors and families.Tuesday, October 13, 2026 | 8:30 AM–3:30 PMMIDFLORIDA Event Center | Port St. Lucie, FloridaRegistration is $125 per person and includes training sessions, continental breakfast, lunch, refreshments, practical resources, networking and a
Sen. Rick Scott Announces Project to Tackle America’s Cost-of-Living CrisisLast week, U.S. Senator Rick Scott announced his new project to urge Washington to finally tackle America’s affordability crisis. Through a series of speeches, videos, and a presentation, Senator Scott will outline a roadmap to counter the rising popularity of socialism and reinvigorate the American Dream by giving everyone more opportunities to live, work, and raise a family in a safe community.See the first
Mattamy Homes Selects Cushman & Wakefield to Market Newfield's Workplace District and Downtown Multifamily & Retail Development SitesCushman & Wakefield’s Nik Schroth and James McKinney Lead Effort to Secure Multifamily Development Partners and Commercial End-users at Palm City, Florida, Mixed-use DevelopmentSTUART, FLORIDA, September 22, 2026 – Cushman & Wakefield announced today that it has been selected by Mattamy Homes to market the multifamily development component in Downtown Newfield and the broader
View this email in your browserCalcagnini Center for Mindfulness Managing Stress & Finding Serenity in Today's WorldYour 5-Week In-Person Journey to Inner Peace In our constantly connected world, stress has become the default. Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by the demands of modern life? This is your invitation to finally change that. Join our highly practical, 5-session program designed to bring you lasting calm, clarity, and control, Designed for busy lives, you will learn to quiet the
Sen. Rick Scott: May You Have A Meaningful Fast This Yom KippurDear Fellow Floridian,Today, Anne and I wish the Jewish community throughout Florida and across our nation an easy and meaningful fast this Yom Kippur. May this time of reflection bring peace and renewal for a new year.The Jewish community has never faltered in its resilience and commitment to living peacefully among its neighbors, both in Florida and around the world. As you know, antisemitism and violence against Israel and the Jewish
MY ALIVE DAYJoseph -16 years ago today, my life changed forever. While deployed in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom, I was a bomb technician under the Joint Special Operations Command. We worked in the dark of night, and it was my job to clear paths for the rest of the team so that we could eliminate threats. On the evening of September 19, 2010, we received crucial intelligence that a high-value target had turned up, and it was up to us to capture or kill the individual. As we
Our Mission is to stop discharges into the St. Lucie River from Lake Okeechobee and to fight for a safe, healthy and ecologically balanced St. Lucie River Estuary and Indian River Lagoon, and the natural resources that are vital to the economy and quality of life of Martin County and the Treasure Coast. Rivers CoalitionSeptember 2026 Newsletter Next MeetingThursday, September 24, 2026 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Stuart City Hall Chambers121 SW Flagler Ave, Stuart, FLThis meeting is in person and via Zoom,
View this email in your browserCalcagnini Center for Mindfulness- October Classes - The Ear-Brain Connection: How Hearing and Vestibular Health Shape Cognitive Function Claudia Alvarez, a Ph.D. candidate in Neuroscience at FAU’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, studies how age-related hearing and balance impairments affect cognition. Her research, conducted in Dr. Ali Danesh’s Hearing, Tinnitus, and Balance Research Lab, explores the relationship between sensory decline and cognitive impairment
WEEK IN REVIEW: ANSWERING FOR EVERY DROPJoseph -I was back in Washington for another busy week! This week, my favorite piece of legislation for our water—the Water Resources Development Act—came to the House floor. I’m proud that several of my priorities for our communities made it into the bill and passed the House. My first amendment requires that the U.S. Army Corps show their work every time they dump Lake Okeechobee water into the St. Lucie. Another amendment states clearly what the purpose of
Bahama Terrace, Windemere & The PinesNeighborhood CleanupSaturday, Sept. 19, 2026 The City of Stuart is gearing up for the next Neighborhood Cleanup, this one for Windemere, The Pines, and Bahama Terrace, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.During the event, City sanitation trucks will cruise through the neighborhoods collecting all the big, bulky, “I’ve-been-meaning-to-throw-that-out” items—everything from old furniture and appliances
Community invited to enjoy creation of landmark public art project coming to beloved Downtown Stuart parkSTUART—Already renowned for its charm and beauty, downtown Stuart is about to get even more vibrant.An exciting new public art installation is set to begin Tuesday in Flagler Park with a dynamic mural project by acclaimed artist Samara Ash.The press and public are encouraged to enjoy the creation process as it unfolds over an estimated three-week period. “With Heritage Vitalis, I wanted to create
On the Treasure Coast, motion sells. A few seconds of water moving, a sailfish breaking the surface, a boat easing out of a Stuart marina at first light: short animated clips stop the scroll in a way a still image cannot. For the tourism operators, waterfront businesses, and marine and boating retailers that drive so much of Martin County's economy, animated social content has become table stakes, and AI animation generators now let a small team produce it without a video crew or an editing suite. That
Trouble viewing? View in your browser. Small Business Workshop Small, Minority and Women Owned Business Workshop October 1, 2026 @ 6:00 pm EDTCost: $10.00Duration: 120 minutes LIVE ONLINE WorkshopSmall, Minority and Women Owned Business Workshop Grow your business with the city, state, and other agencies. Become certified as a Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (EBE) Locally-based Business
Trouble viewing? View in your browser.Small Business Workshops | September 17 - October 3September 17, 12:00pm EDT"Is Your Business ESOP-Able? Value, Legacy, and Tax Basics"REGISTERSeptember 17, 6:00pm EDTSecrets of 10 Small Businesses That Won BigREGISTERSeptember 17, 9:00pm EDTPlanning & Scripting VideosREGISTERSeptember 19, 9:30am EDTDefining Your Business ModelREGISTERSeptember 21, 6:00pm EDTFrom Freeze to Flow: Activate Your Hidden Communication SuperpowerREGISTERSeptember 22, 1:00pm EDTYou’re Not
As Peak Hurricane Season Continues, Floridians Must Stay Prepared!Dear Fellow Floridian,The 2026 hurricane season is in full swing, and, as Floridians, we know that hurricanes and severe weather can strike anytime, anywhere. That's why it's important to have a plan to keep you and your family safe before storms hit. Throughout my time as Governor and now as your U.S. Senator, I have seen the devastation left behind by hurricanes and severe storms. Floridians are resilient, and you’re not alone. I’m
Joseph -Good news: the Water Resources and Development Act—or WRDA—just passed through the House of Representatives!Without a doubt, the number one issue for our community is water. Once every two years, I get to fight for our communities through the most important bill there is for protecting our waterways—WRDA. As long as I have the privilege of representing you, I’ll keep the pressure on until we’re over the finish line: stopping the toxic discharges for clean water is 24/7, 365 days a year.I want to
The Mayfield Minute - September 20, 2026Good Morning!September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness MonthDuring the late 1960s, suicide rates in the United States were increasing at a tragic rate, prompting an increased emphasis on suicide prevention. These efforts included research, public awareness campaigns, and increased access to resources for those struggling with their mental health. In 1968, the American Association of Suicidology was established as a nonprofit to advance the understanding and
Joseph -This week is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, and I want the men and women behind the wheel to know how much we count on them and appreciate them. Every stocked shelf, every package, and every load of equipment headed to a job site got there the same way: driven and delivered by a truck. Truckers keep America moving and our economy running: 453,060 trucking industry jobs in Florida—1 in every 18 jobs in the state125,950 trucking companies in Florida, most of them small, locally owned
Community Healthcare Leader Janean BarrowsJoins Top-Ranked Home Care OrganizationHummingbird Care Services has named Janean Barrows its Director of Growth and Innovation. In this role, she will support the company’s efforts to expand access to dependable, personalized care for seniors and adults who wish to remain safely and comfortably at home. Hummingbird Care Services was named Best Home Care Agency in the WFLX Viewers’ Choice Awards and by Guide to Florida.Mrs. Barrows will help enhance partnerships,
For the fourth consecutive year, Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel – Florida Injury Lawyers has been voted a Guide to Florida Best of Florida winner in the Personal Injury Law category. Best of Florida recognizes leading businesses and organizations throughout the state based on votes from the public. For our firm, that makes this honor particularly meaningful. Rather than relying on formal advertising, our firm has grown through relationships, referrals and the reputation we have built by providing
U.S. Department of Transportation (MARAD) Designates Chapman School of Seamanship a Maritime Center of Excellence for Domestic Workforce Training and Education Federal designation recognizes Chapman’s maritime training, workforce outcomes, and role in preparing the next generation of America’s maritime professionalsSTUART, Fla. — August 25, 2026 — Charles F. Chapman School of Seamanship has been designated a Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education by the U.S. Department
Lesser, Landy, Smith and Siegel - Florida Injury Lawyers is pleased to announce that seven of our attorneys have been recognized as 2026 Florida Super Lawyers. The Super Lawyers honorees are Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser and Partners Joseph B. Landy, Michael S. Smith, Michael V. Baxter, Jeffrey F. Gordon and Steven J. Clarfield. Attorney Imani M. Williams is recognized as a Rising Star for the third consecutive year.This marks 21 years and the 18th consecutive year that Gary, Joe and Mickey have been
What Is Adobe Firefly? Adobe Firefly is a standalone generative artificial intelligence application built to assist small businesses and creators with visual asset generation through plain language instructions. The system operates via a web browser interface, converting detailed text descriptions into accurate graphics, stylized artwork, or high definition video sequences. Every output generated through its production ready features is certified and cleared for commercial marketing use, protecting your
The Treasure Coast is one of Florida's most ecologically distinct regions — home to the Indian River Lagoon, the St. Lucie River, and a business community that has long treated environmental stewardship as a civic value, not a marketing angle. The Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce is a member of the River Coalition, which signals something real about how local businesses relate to the natural systems around them. That context matters if you're thinking about launching a business
Businesses of all sizes rely on consultants to solve problems, improve performance, and unlock growth. A consultant is a specialized professional who offers expert advice in a defined area such as finance, marketing, operations, or technology. Rather than depending on a single perspective, many companies benefit from working with different consultants across disciplines.Key Takeaways at a Glance Different consultants bring specialized expertise that internal teams may lack. External advisors offer
Small Business Administration Date: 03/04/2026 U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FACT SHEET – ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOANS (SBA DISASTER DECLARATION DUE TO DESIGNATION BY THE SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE) FLORIDA Declaration 21457 (Disaster: FL-20034) Incident: FREEZE, FROST, ICE, AND HIGH WINDS occurring: January 23, 2026 through February 5, 2026 in the Florida counties of: Broward, Palm Beach and Sumter; and the contiguous Florida counties of: Citrus, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Hernando, Lake, Marion,
OFFICE OF DISASTER RECOVERY & RESILIENCE Release Date: March 10, 2026 Contact: Karen.Knapik@sba.gov Release Number: FL-20034-01 Follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn & Instagram SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Florida Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Freeze, Frost, Ice and High Winds Low interest disaster loans now available WASHINGTON— The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)
Video and audio have become the default language of digital discovery — and for member businesses across Martin County and Port St. Lucie, that shift is too significant to ignore. How widely video has been adopted tells the story plainly: 91% of businesses now use video as a marketing tool, with 93% of video marketers calling it an important part of their overall strategy. Port St. Lucie is one of Florida's fastest-growing cities, with a metro area topping 500,000 residents and rising. The chamber members
STUART, FL – March 06, 2026 — Chapman School of Seamanship, an internationally recognized 501(c)3, nonprofit marine training institution and the State of Florida’s designated maritime school, has announced the launch of its new Vessel Legacy Program. This initiative allows boat and yacht owners to donate vessels to support maritime education, workforce development, and safety programs for boaters of all ages. Through the program, donated vessels may be used as ‘at-the-helm’ training platforms for
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel is proud to announce that eight of our attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers ® in America. Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser is joined by Partners Joseph B. Landy, Glenn E. Siegel, Joshua D. Ferraro, Jeffrey F. Gordon and Steven J. Clarfield and Senior Counsel Michael S. Smith as recipients of the Best Lawyers in America ® Award. Firm Attorney Imani M. Williams is recognized in the Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch ® in America. “Our
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC, a 98-year-old personal injury law firm renowned for its commitment to fighting for the best results, is pleased to announce that Tami R. Wolfe has joined the firm as a Partner.Wolfe will spearhead the opening of the Firm’s new Broward County office, marking a significant expansion in the firm’s unparalleled service to personal injury clients across Florida.“Tami’s extensive experience, her outstanding reputation in the legal community, and her deep
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith and Siegel, PLLC is pleased to announce that five of our attorneys have been selected to the 2025 Florida Super Lawyers list. The Super Lawyers honorees are Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser and Partners Joseph B. Landy, Michael S. Smith and Michael V. Baxter. Attorney Imani M. Williams is recognized as a Rising Star for the second consecutive year. This marks 20 years and the 17th consecutive year that Gary Lesser, Joseph Landy and Michael Smith have been
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith and Siegel, PLLC is proud to announce that seasoned trial attorney Michael V. Baxter has joined the firm as a Partner in its West Palm Beach office where he will focus his practice on representing individuals and families who have been catastrophically injured due to medical negligence. With nearly three decades of legal experience, Baxter brings a powerful combination of courtroom skill and deep knowledge of medical malpractice litigation. “Mike Baxter is well
West Palm Beach, FL – Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC is pleased to announce that Ryan M. McCarthy has joined the firm as a partner in the West Palm Beach office. McCarthy will oversee the firm’s growing Contingency Business Litigation Division. McCarthy brings over a decade of experience litigating cases, and is known for his meticulous, client-centered approach to resolving high-stakes claims. He is licensed to practice in Florida and Massachusetts and has represented a wide range of clients,
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC is proud to announce that five of our attorneys have been named to the esteemed 2025 LawDragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers guide.This recognition highlights their unwavering dedication to seeking justice for their clients and their outstanding contributions to the legal profession.The lawyers included on this year’s list are Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser, and Partners Joseph B. Landy, Michael S. Smith, Glenn E. Siegel and Jeffrey F.
We are proud to announce that our Firm has changed its name to Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC. The name change acknowledges the significant contributions of Firm Partner Glenn Siegel and marks an exciting new chapter in our almost 98-year history as a personal injury law firm in Florida. “Glenn has worked in our firm for almost the entirety of his lengthy legal career,” Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser said. “He exemplifies our values of working hard to get great results for our clients with personal
Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC is proud to announce that we've been included on the list of Best Law Firms® in the Best Lawyers rankings for the 15th consecutive year. We are ranked in Regional Tier 1 of the 2025 Best Law Firms® in the practice areas of Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Insurance Law. “We are honored to yet again be recognized as one of the Best Law Firms in the country,” Managing Partner Gary Lesser said. “This distinction is a real testament to our hard work and
Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC, is pleased to announce that Attorney Mike Scott has joined the Firm and will be working out of our Stuart and West Palm Beach offices. A native of New England, Scott has spent the past decade litigating cases, primarily as a defense attorney, at firms in Florida, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Eager to work on behalf of injured clients and their families, Scott will focus his practice on representing individuals and families who have suffered serious personal injury or
West Palm Beach, FL – Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC, is proud to announce that Ethel L. Velasquez has joined the firm, Of Counsel, in its West Palm Beach office, where she will focus her practice on personal injury litigation. Raised in West Palm Beach, Velasquez is a member of the Palm Beach County Hispanic Bar Association and Palm Beach County Florida Association of Women Lawyers and volunteers her time in support of the nonprofits Latinos in Action, El Sol and Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach
A “consummate professional whose entire legal career has been defined by his personal professional conduct,” Managing Partner Gary S. Lesser was honored by his peers on March 8 with the Palm Beach County Bar Association’s Sidney A. Stubbs Professionalism Award. Attorneys Patricia Leonard and Alexcia Cox presented Lesser with the award in front of hundreds of attorneys and judges at a luncheon during the Palm Beach County Bar Association’s 2024 Bench Bar Conference. “I think this is the biggest
STUART, Fla. (December 6, 2023) – Martin County, Florida is known for being a premier family-friendly vacation destination, thanks to countless ecotourism activities, beautiful hotels, world-class restaurants, and miles of pristine coastline. However, it’s also a popular pet-friendly escape. The Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing and Explore Natural Martin recognize that outdoor adventures and pets go hand-in-paw, which is why they are excited to announce the new B.A.R.K. Ranger program, which