MartinArts Announces the Launch of The Art of Food & Wine at ArtsFest 2026 In Partnership with the T
Stuart, FL — December 18, 2025 — MartinArts is thrilled to announce the debut of The Art of Food & Wine, an elevated culinary and wine experience launching as a signature feature of ArtsFest 2026. Developed in partnership with the Treasure Coast Charity Wine Fest, this new addition will bring exceptional wines, standout regional cuisine, and artistic creativity together in one dynamic, multi-sensory celebration. The partnership with the Treasure Coast Charity Wine Fest will provide festival-goers with
News Release: 12/22/2025
St. John Greek Church 3 Day Festival January 30,31 & February 1 US1 Hobe Sound next to the library
Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation Recognizes 2025 Thanks for Giving Honorees
(STUART, Fla. Dec. 19, 2025) – The Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation presented its 2025 Thanks for Giving Awards to two honorees during the Jingle and Mingle reception held on December 10 at The Mayes Center in Stuart. Board member and advocate John Doody and Remnant Construction were honored for their commitment to the Treasure Coast Hospice mission and distinguished service to philanthropy through their time, talent, and treasure.“Our Thanks for Giving honorees exemplify what it means to be true partners
VIM December 2025 Newsletter
December 2025A Letter from our Executive DirectorDear Friends,As we close out this year, I am deeply humbled by what we’ve accomplished together. In 2025, Family Promise of Martin County walked alongside more than 250 families facing housing insecurity. One family even crossed the threshold into homeownership—a milestone that reminds us why we do this work. Our housing capacity has grown to 12 apartments, and soon we will add five tiny homes, expanding the ways we can provide stability. We’ve prevented
Our fight for clean water continues
News from Congressman Brian Mast GETTING STARTED: WRDA 2026Joseph -For our communities, there is no issue more pervasive or critical than our fight for clean water. It’s why I continue to serve on the Subcommittee on Water Resources, and this morning, our subcommittee held our first hearing as we begin the process of passing the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) in 2026. WRDA is a bill we consider every two years to authorize new water infrastructure projects and establish policies for the U.S. Army
Florida's Growth Continues, Now the 15th Largest Economy Globally
FLORIDA BY THE NUMBERS Florida's Growth Continues, Now the 15th Largest Economy Globally The December 2025 edition of Florida By The Numbers is now available. Florida Chamber Foundation Senior Research Economist Sheridan Morby walks us through Florida’s rise to the 15th largest economy in the world, population growth, labor market trends, housing activity, and what recent interest rate decisions mean for Florida businesses as we continue momentum toward becoming a top 10 global economy.Some of the metrics
State Approaches to OBBBA Income Tax Provisions
ThriventMark Valinote, FIC, RICP® CLU CHFC Financial Advisor 1860 SW Fountainview Blvd Ste 100 Port St Lucie, FL 34986772-236-0063 State Approaches to OBBBA Income Tax ProvisionsThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), enacted in July 2025, implemented several significant provisions, including new deductions for overtime and tips. States, in turn, have been evaluating how these federal tax changes will impact their own income tax revenue and administration. For
PASSED: ESTUARIES Act
News from Congressman Brian Mast PASSED: ESTUARIES ACTJoseph -Few resources are as vital to Florida and our nation as our estuaries. These unique ecosystems, where freshwater mixes with the ocean’s saltwater, support wildlife, strengthen economies, and are essential to our way of life along the Treasure Coast.All of this is why I cosponsored the Estuaries Act, and I’m proud to say it just passed the House. This bill extends the reauthorization of the National Estuary Program and funds it through Fiscal Year
Make Your Holiday Giving Count: Support Success All Year Long!
This Holiday Season: Gift Purpose, Not Just Presents Art. Purpose. Impact. All Year Long.Looking for a thoughtful, meaningful gift for your clients or staff? The 2026 Art for Living Calendar is the perfect choice. Beautiful, inspiring, and ideal for year-round appreciation. Calendars are also available in bulk, 20 per box, making it easy to order for your entire team or customer list. We want to thank, Zakry Tyrrell, Marketing Director at Kamrell Windows and Doors. He was thrilled to purchase
$850K Settlement for Injured Cyclist, Celebrating the Season and More!
View this email in your browser SETTLEMENT ALERT$850,000 Settlement Secured for Cyclist Injured in Collier County Collision After a routine bike ride in Collier County turned catastrophic for our client, Firm Partner Jeff Gordon fought tirelessly and secured an $850,000 policy-limits settlement on his behalf. As our client, an active cyclist, lawfully entered a crosswalk, a motorist making a careless turn failed to yield and struck him. The impact launched him into the air and threw him across
Just when you thought you’d heard the last of the Coronavirus.
Martin County Taxpayers Association Monthly NewsletterDid you know… In fiscal year 2024, there were 31,450 federal employees who out-earned every governor of the 50 states. That includes the highest paid, NY Gov. Kathy Hochul, who collects a $250,000 salary…. Unleash Prosperity Hotline Issue #1397 11/20/25 IN THIS ISSUE:Commissioner Heard to remain as Chair of the BOCCIs the County looking at a lawsuit?Incredible development in RIO!Nothing says success like
Pearls of Compassion Gala to Celebrate 30 Years of Volunteers in Medicine Clinic
Pearls of Compassion Gala to Celebrate 30 Years of Volunteers in Medicine Clinic Stuart, FL — November 2026 — Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) Clinic will host its highly anticipated Pearls of Compassion Gala on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the elegant Willoughby Golf Club. This black-tie optional evening will honor three decades of compassionate care provided by VIM Clinic to thousands of uninsured residents across the Treasure Coast. The Pearls of Compassion Gala promises a
??? Upcoming SFWMD Public Meetings
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
Week in Review: Restoring peace through strength
WEEK IN REVIEW: RESTORING PEACE THROUGH STRENGTHJoseph -It was a full week in Washington as Congress was back in session. From the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to our first Foreign Affairs Committee Member Day Hearing of this 119th Congress, we accomplished a lot. The NDAA is an important piece of legislation that funds the U.S. Department of War, and we made sure this bill spent our tax dollars responsibly. Now, it moves on to the Senate before it can be signed by the
December 14, 2025 - Happy Hanukkah!
The Mayfield Minute - December 14, 2025Good Morning!Happy Hanukkah!Hannukah begins this evening at sunset and extends through nightfall on Monday, December 22nd. The dates of the Hannukah tradition vary each year as they follow the Hebrew lunar calendar. In Hebrew, Hanukkah means “dedication” and refers to the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BC, after a small group of courageous Jewish fighters liberated Jerusalem from occupying foreign forces. The holiday is known as the
MC Tax Collecto Announces
In honor of America’s 250th birthday in 2026, the Department has created the America’s 250th Anniversary license plate. The new America’s 250th Anniversary license plate will only be available for original, replacement, transfer and personalized reservation issuances beginning in December 2025. The America’s 250th Anniversary license plate will have a center logo design and will follow the same requirements as the current regular graphic license plates. The license plate will be renewable throughout the
Protect Jobs and Businesses with Better Infrastructure
Help Congress build the roads and bridges for future growth.December 12, 2025 U.S. Chamber ActionStand Up for Free Enterprise Why Congress Must Keep America MovingSecure the future of our roads, bridges, and transit systems.Our economy runs on our roads, bridges, and transit systems. When goods can't get to market, and workers can't get to their jobs, businesses suffer. But without action from Congress, critical transportation programs could face delays, higher costs, and disruptions that hurt families
What the Fed's Final 2025 Interest Rate Cut Means for Consumers and Businesses
What the Fed's Final 2025 Interest Rate Cut Means for Consumers and BusinessesAs 2025 comes to a close, the Federal Reserve has made final decisions on interest rates this year, with another .25 percentage point interest rate cut. There were two chapters for the story of inflation in 2025. In the first few months of the year, uncertainty surrounding national policy and little movement in inflation and labor market dynamics led to no change in interest rates. However, as the labor market cooled in the second
Every Success Story Begins with Someone Who Cares!
Your Year-End Gift Can Change a Life!Dear Friends, It’s the most wonderful time of the year – a season filled with traditions, memories, hopes, family, food, and friends. Yet for many in our community, the holidays can also bring stress, worry, or loneliness. Families who have lost loved ones, those facing financial hardship, or individuals navigating mental health challenges can find this time especially difficult.Helping People Succeed exists for moments like theseAcross Every Stage of Life,
Meet Terlla - A Single Mom Who Is Thriving Because Of You
You Make Stories Like Terlla's Possible I spent years feeling invisible, moving from placement to placement. I learned to adapt to new homes, new schools, and new faces. Each move chipped away at my confidence, and I began to wonder if I would ever belong anywhere. When I came to Place of Hope, I finally found what I had been searching for my whole childhood— stability, safety, and unconditional love. Here, I
ATTN Floridians! Learn More About SSA's Online Portal, my Social Security
ATTN Floridians! Learn More About SSA's Online Portal, my Social SecurityU.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano has announced expanded access to the SSA online portal, my Social Security to better serve Americans.Thanks to the Trump Administration, and the work of Commissioner Bisignano, my Social Security now provides you with full-time access to your Social Security information online and allows individuals to request replacement cards online rather than having to visit
Major CERP Project is Complete! SFWMD and USACE Host Ribbon Cutting for Biscayne Bay Coastal Wetlands Project
View as a webpage here News Release Major CERP Project is Complete! SFWMD and USACE Host Ribbon Cutting for Biscayne Bay Coastal Wetlands Project Pictured from L-R: SFWMD Governing Board Members Ben Butler and Thomas Hurley; Biscayne Bay National Park Superintendent Sarah Hopson; SFWMD Executive Director Drew Bartlett; Former SFWMD Governing Board Member Irela Bague; SFWMD Vice-Chair Scott Wagner; SFWMD Chair Chauncey Goss; USACE Col. Brandon Bowman; Cutler Bay Mayor Tim Meerbott;
Now Open: Call for Presentations – 2026 Leadership Conference on Safety, Health + Sustainability
Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet | 136 S Bronough St | Tallahassee, FL 32301 US
SafeSpace Holiday Shoppe: Donate by December 15!
Holiday Shoppe 2025!Join SafeSpace in Spreading Hope and Holiday Joy!This December, you can help brighten the season for local families by supporting our annual Holiday Shoppe. Your donations of toys, teen gifts, and special items for moms allow survivors to “shop” for their children, and choose a little something for themselves, at no cost.Donation Deadline: December 15Drop-Off Location: SafeSpace Administrative Office, 612 SE Dixie Highway, Stuart, FL 34994Need a Pick-Up? Call 772-223-2399 or
Reminder: Join renowned UCF economist Dr. Sean Snaith for an exclusive national economic forecast
ACT NOW: Lock in Special Registration Rate of $99 by Friday!Use Promo Code: Holiday25 Keynote Presentation:2026 National Economic Outlook Nationally-recognized economist in the area of business and economic forecasting Sean Snaith, Ph.D., Director of the University of Central Florida's Institute for Economic Forecasting, will be joining us at the 2026 Florida Economic Outlook & Jobs Solution Summit to highlight: Federal economic trends to watch What a
Video: Key Tax Changes for Individuals, Families, and Business Owners in OBBBA
ThriventMark Valinote, FIC, RICP® CLU CHFC Financial Advisor 1860 SW Fountainview Blvd Ste 100 Port St Lucie, FL 34986772-236-0063 Video: Key Tax Changes for Individuals, Families, and Business Owners in OBBBA Transcript
Chairman Rick Scott Leads Aging Hearing on How Communities Can Support Seniors During the Holidays
Chairman Rick Scott Leads Hearing on the Crucial Role of Community Support for Seniors During the Holiday SeasonChairman Rick Scott of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging convened a hearing titled, “Aging in Place: The Impact of Community During the Holidays.” This hearing examined how strong families, community networks, faith-based organizations, and programs supported by the Older Americans Act (OAA) help older adults continue living in their homes, especially during the holiday season when
Treasure Health Expands Executive Leadership: Shannon Cooper, RN, MPH, CHPN, Named Chief Operating Officer
Treasure Health, parent company of Treasure Coast Hospice and Brevard-based St. Francis Hospice, has named Shannon Cooper, RN, MPH, CHPN, as Chief Operating Officer. The newly created position reflects the organization’s continued growth and commitment to strengthening operational excellence across its four-county service area. “Shannon Cooper brings extensive healthcare experience and a deep understanding of our organization’s needs at a time of meaningful growth,” said Treasure Health CEO Jackie
What’s Ahead for Small Businesses in 2026
Explore key updates on taxes, workforce readiness, and AI regulation to prepare for the new year.December 5, 2025 U.S. Chamber ActionStand Up for Free Enterprise Opportunities and Challenges Ahead for Small Businesses in 2026From tax policy to workforce development, here’s what entrepreneurs should watch for in the new year.As small businesses prepare for 2026, understanding the evolving economic landscape is crucial. In a recent Small Business Update, Neil Bradley, the U.S. Chamber’s Chief Policy
December 7, 2025 - ''A Date Which Will Live in Infamy
The Mayfield Minute - December 7, 2025 Good Morning! Remembering Pearl Harbor On Sunday, December 7th, 1941, at approximately 8:00 a.m., the nation of Japan launched an unexpected and devastating air attack on the United States' Pearl Harbor Naval Base at Oahu, Hawaii. More than 2,300 Americans were killed in the attack, including 49 civilians. Over 300
ICYMI: Honoring our fallen heroes
News from Congressman Brian Mast ICYMI: HONORING OUR FALLEN HEROESJoseph -It’s an understatement to say that every military funeral stays with you. There is no way to repay the debt we owe to those killed in action, but I recently wrote an op-ed in Fox News about how we can do more to show our gratitude as a country. The Final Honors Act would allow any U.S. service member killed in action to lie in state beneath the dome of the Capitol. While this honor has existed for more than a century and a half, only
Transform Your Caregiving Experience
Master Redirection Click to Register Access the Flier Here We invite you to join us for our Caregiver Toolkit Webinar Series, a free monthly program designed for Family Caregivers supporting loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease or related dementia-causing disorders. Each session is led by experts from Alzheimer's Community Care,
Senator Rick Scott's Week in Review 12/8/2025
Dear Fellow Floridian,It’s time for politicians in Washington to realize what you and the American people already know: Obamacare has failed. It created a system that enriched insurance companies and hospitals and screwed over Americans. Families have been left with higher costs and health care that doesn’t meet their needs. When I hear stories of families struggling to afford their premiums, putting off treatment because it’s too expensive, or splitting their pills in half to make them last longer, I see
Reminder: Rep. Toby Overdorf - November Newsletter
Dear Friends, November has officially come to a close, and it’s incredible how quickly the month passed. It was a full, fast-moving, and meaningful few weeks—reminding me just how much we have to be grateful for. One of the major highlights was being back in Tallahassee. Returning always brings focus and momentum, and this visit was no different. I was honored to host the committee meeting on property taxes as the chair, leading an important discussion and continuing the work toward meaningful
ICYMI … Sen. Rick Scott in Fox News: Here’s How We Fix Obamacare
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott in Fox News: I Grew Up in Public Housing and I Know How to Fix ObamacareIn case you missed it, Senator Rick Scott wrote an op-ed for Fox News highlighting his new bill, the More Affordable Care Act, to fix Obamacare and drive down health care costs for American families. Senator Scott discusses how his bill makes simple fixes that will help families get the health care that fits their needs, drive down costs, instill transparency in the system, and ensure that
Rehmann Foundation Grants Over $100K to Support Local Organizations
Grant awardees provide services to local communities focused on housing, social services, leadership development and more Troy, Mich. - December 2, 2025 - The Rehmann Foundation, the nonprofit arm of the Rehmann advisory firm, is proud to announce that it awarded over $100,000 in grants to eleven outstanding organizations in Michigan, Ohio, and Florida. Each organization received a gift between $5,000-$15,000 in honor of this year’s Giving Tuesday. “We launched the Rehmann Foundation to reflect our firm’s
News Release: 12/4/2025
Annual Greek Festival St. Johns Greek Church US 1 Hobe Sound Next to the Library
Recurring Injuries? Discover How to Get to the Real Root Cause with the Florida Chamber Safety Council
Recurring Injuries? Discover How to Get to the Real Root Cause Every organization experiences injuries—but what happens when the same types of injuries keep happening over and over? Too often, investigations stop at blaming the employee, and the countermeasures put in place fail to prevent future incidents. Hidden leadership gaps, unexamined motivations, and incomplete investigation strategies are usually the real reasons these events
Final Hours to DOUBLE Your Impact for Giving Tuesday!
Giving Tuesday Final Push!Dear Friend of Helping People Succeed, As Giving Tuesday comes to a close, we are incredibly grateful for the generosity our community has shown today. We are 31% of the way to our $10,000 goal, and with just a few hours left, we are reaching out for one final push. Giving Tuesday began in 2012 as a simple idea — a day that inspires people everywhere to do good. Over the years, it has grown into a global movement fueled by generosity, kindness, and the belief
Dec. 13th: Service Academy Physical Fitness Assessment
SERVICE ACADEMY FITNESS ASSESSMENTJoseph -Our nation has a proud tradition of military service, and attending a service academy is a great way to participate in that tradition and serve your country while also receiving an education at some of the top universities. Every year, I look forward to the privilege of nominating outstanding young people from our community to attend the Military Academy at West Point, the Naval Academy at Annapolis, the Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, and the Merchant
News Release: 12/3/2025
ThriventMark Valinote, FIC, RICP® CLU CHFC Financial Advisor 1860 SW Fountainview Blvd Ste 100 Port St Lucie, FL 34986772-236-0063 Even if federal and consumer dollars flow into the economy, lost productivity cannot be recovered. The Shutdown Is Over: What Now?Late on November 12, 2025, the longest government shutdown in U.S. history ended after 43 days. Although there was a sense of relief for many Americans, the resolution was limited and temporary, with the potential
I’m working for small businesses growth
News from Congressman Brian Mast ADVANCING THE AFFORDABILITY AGENDAJoseph -During the Biden Administration, federal agencies seemed to operate with one goal: make everything more expensive and hope no one notices. Democrats piled on over $2 trillion in new regulations that hurt small businesses. Here’s what those regulations cost you and our communities’ small businesses:$16,016 per household in hidden regulatory taxes$14,700 per employee in regulatory costs for small businessesA total hit of $3 trillion to
MC BOCC Announces Sidewalk & Lane Closures for SW Fox Brown Road
Celebrating Leadership: Chamber Recognizes Business Impact at Annual Installation & Awards Gala
Martin County, FL.— The Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce welcomed 250 guests to their annual Installation Gala — “The Greatest Show in Business” — presented by Loving Chiropractic of Stuart. The Cirque du Soleil themed event was held Saturday, September 27th at the Marriott Hutchinson Island Resort and featured Florida Aerial Dance and Circus Arts performers. Chamber President/CEO Joe Catrambone and Dan Hulen, Chair of the Board of Directors emceed the evening consisting of recognitions, dinner,
Stuart/Martin County Chamber Honors International Training as the 2025 CareerConnect Martin Employe
Stuart/Martin County Chamber Honors International Training as the 2025 CareerConnect Martin Employer of the Year STUART — International Training, a Stuart-based tech company has been honored as the CareerConnect Martin Employer of the Year for 2025. Leaders of the Stuart/Martin County Chamber and the Martin Chamber Foundation announced Saturday at the Chamber’s annual Installation & Awards Gala, presented by Loving Chiropractic of Stuart. Martin Chamber Foundation Executive Director Angela Hoffman said
Lesser Law Firm Announces Name Change
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 Law Firm Welcomes New Attorney in Stuart Office
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
Lesser Law Firm Welcomes New Attorney
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
Gary S. Lesser Honored with Stubbs Professionalism Award
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
MARTIN COUNTY OFFICE OF TOURISM & MARKETING CELEBRATES WORLD WILDLIFE CONSERVATION DAY WITH NEW B.A.R.K. RANGER PROGRAM FOR FOUR-LEGGED VISITORS
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