Treasure Coast Business News 4.25.23
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Exciting spring for Environmental Studies Council
Exciting spring for Environmental Studies Council
Knight Kiplinger, Courtney Stein, Jesse Stein, Ellice Condon and Bobby Condon
It’s been a spectacular two months at the Environmental Studies Center, thanks to the hard work of the 501(c)(3) that supports it, the Environmental Studies Council. On March 29, the Council learned that it was awarded a $100,000 grant from Impact100 Martin for its Wet Lab Revitalization. Then, on April 1, months of hard work culminated in a successful gala that celebrated the Center’s 50th anniversary and netted over $110,000.
Key sponsors included Ann & Knight Kiplinger, M.E.’s Team, Seacoast Bank, FPL and Kay Sutton. The 140 attendees enjoyed a buffet dinner, tours of the Bay Tree Lodge property in Sewall’s Point, music, and live and silent auctions
Proceeds will be used to fund capital improvements including the Wet Lab Revitalization, as well as assist with the Council’s regular expenses of a teacher’s salary, community education and outreach, and boat-related expenses.
To learn more about the Environmental Studies Council, visit www.escmc.org.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]
Habitat welcomes new development and marketing director
Habitat welcomes new development and marketing director
St. Lucie Habitat for Humanity is excited to welcome new Development and Marketing Director, Chris Robertson, to its team. He brings a depth of experience and a broad range of skills to the organization.
His strong sense of community and respect for the dedication and work of local non-profit organizations led him to volunteering and lending a hand to those most in need. Volunteerism is, to this day, an essential part of his life. It also has led him to a fulfilling and rewarding career with local non-profits. He led the nonprofit agency CASTLE and launched the Hope Lives Foundation, helping local youth for the past five years.
Raised in the Midwest, Chris attended Huntington University in Huntington, Indiana, on a track scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree and an MBA. However, his love of sports – especially track/cross country and basketball – and competitive enthusiasm spurred him to take on high school and college coaching responsibilities. This has become his primary “outside activity” for the last 15 years and continues today.
Chris and his wife Angel have been Florida residents for 30 years and raised a son of 26 years, who lives in Indiana. Chris and Angel are extremely active in the community, school, and church.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]
GRID Alternatives receives new funding for Solar Workforce Development Program
GRID Alternatives receives new funding for Solar Workforce Development Program
GRID Alternatives, the largest nonprofit installer of renewable energy in the U.S., announced a renewed partnership with Bank of America. Bank of America is a long-standing corporate partner that has renewed its investment of $300,000 in one of GRID’s workforce development programs, the SolarCorps Fellowship Program. This funding will support GRID’s 37 SolarCorps Fellows in obtaining hands-on experience, mentorship, professional development, and increased knowledge about a career in renewable energy.
“Demand for solar energy continues to grow and that demand is driving the need for more solar industry workers,” said Alex Liftman, Global Environmental Executive at Bank of America. “We are at a moment in time when we can create access to clean energy and clean energy jobs in underrepresented communities like never before. That’s why we are pleased to support SolarCorps and the broader mission of GRID Alternatives, which are helping to meet that demand and creating healthy communities and economic mobility in the process.”
GRID’s mission is to build community-powered solutions to advance economic and environmental justice through renewable energy across the United States, in sovereign Tribal nations, and internationally. “Bank of America is a champion of our SolarCorps Fellows Program, and their support is critical to helping GRID advance equity by providing valuable experience to individuals from the communities we serve, while helping communities gain access to renewable energy solutions,” said Erica Mackie, GRID CEO and Co-Founder. “Thank you to Bank of America for their support.”
GRID’s work has taken on new importance in response to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which was signed into law in 2022 and represents the most significant legislation in U.S. history to combat the climate crisis and strengthen energy security. The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory predict strong growth in the solar industry workforce as a result of the IRA. The September 2021 Solar Futures Study indicated “(that) in order to achieve the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of an inclusive, equitable transition to a fully decarbonized electricity system by 2035, the solar workforce will need to grow from approximately 250,000 workers in 2021 to between 500,000 and 1,500,000 workers by 2035.”
GRID is proud to be a part of the solar industry’s job growth by providing workforce development and training programs, resulting in over 33,000 trainees, students, and volunteers gaining valuable experience in solar installations and construction, and outreach and community solar education. Diversifying the solar workforce with highly qualified employees is part of GRID’s mission, and it is critical to the continued growth of the renewable energy sector.
GRID demonstrates its commitment to a just workforce transition by serving those who are typically underrepresented in the energy industry, including women and Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC)-identifying individuals. GRID also recruits job training participants from economic and environmental justice communities located in its affiliate offices’ regions, including California (Riverside County, LA County, Sacramento, Fresno, Oakland, San Diego); Denver and Kingman Park in Colorado; and Washington, DC. These projects exclusively benefit under-resourced households, defined as an annual household income that is 80% or below the area’s median income.
Since 2014, 422 people have served as SolarCorps Fellows, and the hands-on experience helped 73% of them get their next job following the fellowship. Bank of America has provided $1.85 million in funding and supported 200 Fellows since 2017 and has provided a total of $2.195 million in funding to GRID (including the SolarCorps Fellowship Program) since 2010.
Bank of America
Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 68 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,900 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs and award-winning digital banking with approximately 56 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 3 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]
FDOT hosts public meeting concerning 25th Street
FDOT hosts public meeting concerning 25th Street
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) invites the public to attend an IN-PERSON MEETING tonight, Tuesday, May 2, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the River Walk Center located at 600 North Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, FL. 34950. The meeting concerns a future resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation (RRR) project on State Road 615/South 25th Street from Edwards Road to Virginia Avenue. The purpose of this project is to improve the longevity of the pavement and also improve safety along the corridor. Proposed improvements include repaving the existing roadway, replacing damaged sidewalks, upgrade pavement markings and signs to current standards, add lighting for the signalized crosswalks, upgrade pedestrian signals at the three signalized intersections, and replace signal mast arms at Edwards Road. Staff will be available to answer questions and provide assistance.
Comments and questions will be answered in the order they are received. If your question is not answered during the event, a response will be provided in writing following the meeting. Questions and comments may also be submitted prior to the meeting by emailing the Project Manager, Ms. Damaris Williams, at: [email protected]
Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2023 and is expected to be completed by December 2024.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]
Visit Indian River County appoints new director of tourism and marketing
Visit Indian River County appoints new director of tourism and marketing
Ben Earman
The Visit Indian River County tourism office has announced the appointment of Ben Earman as Director of Tourism and Marketing. In his new role, Earman will develop strategies, programs, and policies to promote responsible tourism, effectively manage tourism impacts, and stimulate economic development through tourism.
“With his extensive background in hospitality and demonstrated commitment to outstanding service, Ben is a great – and timely – addition to our team,” said Dori Stone, president of the Indian River Chamber of Commerce. “Ben is a Vero Beach native with wide-ranging connections and a deep understanding of the destination, which will serve him well as director.”
Earman most recently served as Community Relations Manager for Senior Resource Association, where he developed strategy and programs to make positive contributions to the community. His career also includes time as the Gift Service Administrator of Riverside Theatre; Community Development Officer of Education Foundation of Indian River County; and Marketing and Event Manager also with Senior Resource Association. Known for his exceptional communication and people skills, Earman is currently an active member of the Vero Beach theatre community, served on the board of directors for the non-profit Vero Beach Theatre guild and operated an extremely successful theatre department at Treasure Coast High School.
“You won’t find a more enthusiastic or authentic advocate for this very special part of Florida,” said Earman. “I’ve formed some great relationships as an active part of the local business and theatre communities and will build on those to help put Indian River County in the tourism spotlight.”
Florida’s Indian River County is at the intersection of green and glamorous, with 100,000 conservation acres, 22 miles of uncrowded beaches, and a collection of high-style accommodations and one-of-a-kind cultural attractions. With more than 100 locally chef owned dining experiences and a multitude of eco-excursions, visitors find unexpected surprises at every turn, with a welcoming, small-town vibe. To learn more about Indian River County, go to VisitIndianRiverCounty.com.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]
Treasure Coast Business News 4.18.23
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Bridges for a Brighter Future
Bridges for a Brighter Future
Don’t wait to register for Suncoast Mental Health's Bridges to a Brighter Future bridge walk for mental health awareness…there are only a few weeks left to secure an event t-shirt, organize a team or be a partner in bridging the way to mental wellness.
The event will be held at Bridge Walk at Fort Pierce South Bridge on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 9 a.m.
$25 for individuals, $20 per person for teams of 5+ walkers, $10 for students with valid ID, and free for children under 12. Register at www.suncoastmentalhealth.org.
The important work we do and essential services we provide would not be possible without the support of our generous community, and we look forward to having you join us in raising funds and awareness to ensure positive mental health and a brighter future for every child, adult and family.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]
The Source forms a members-only advisory council<
The Source forms a members-only advisory council
While The Source for the poor and the homeless in Vero Beach have been setting their bar higher and higher with the standard and number of much needed programs and services for their members, the staff has decided to take a bit of a back seat by taking some advice from those that have the most in the say… that is, their homeless members.
Anthony Zorbaugh, Executive Director of The Source, in tandem with Operations Director, Jade Alexander, have selected several members of the organization to form an Advisory Council. Their job hits close to home. Their seat on the council allows them to express ideas and address challenges they and other members may encounter at The Source, while working together as a team to come up with possible solutions.
The Advisory Council members include Karen McDonough (Shower Attendant), Russell Walker (Dining With Dignity Student and current Dignity Food Truck Operator), Tammy Atkins (Cleans Bus and makes beds through Dignity Jobs Program) and Pablo Acevedo (Volunteering on Bus and helps with laundry on weekends).
The topics they have initially been discussing includes adding a special needs diet on the menu for diabetics, implementing an after-hours neighborhood watch outside the campus, looking at additional ventilation and air purifiers for the Dignity Bus, and adding more sobriety meetings to the existing program schedule, among others.
“This is a win-win” comments Zorbaugh. “It helps the staff understand our members needs more and increases the probability of forming even stronger relationships with them.”
Alexander agrees. “This is one more step in allowing them to be confident with their feelings and expressing what’s on their mind. They will also be represented on monthly zoom calls with the Board of Directors of The Source, bringing them up-to-date on what the Advisory Council is accomplishing. Each step will make them become more dignified, which is our ultimate goal.”
For more information on The Source and its Members Advisory Council, visit www.iamthesource.org, or call Anthony Zorbaugh or Jade Alexander directly at 772-564-0202.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]
Historic Preservation Month highlights 80th anniversary of Flagler Center
Historic Preservation Month highlights 80th anniversary of Flagler Center
During WWII millions of American men and women from all over the country answered the call of duty, selflessly putting their lives on the line to keep America safe and free. To distract their minds from the news overseas, lift their morale, and nourish support on the home front, the United Service Organizations or USOs popped up across the country, including one at the Flagler Center in Historic Downtown Stuart.
On Friday, May 19, 2023, 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Stuart Main Street will be celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Flagler Center and the patriotic tradition of the USO with a Stars & Stripes-themed dance and silent auction. Complete with a 16-piece big band, swing dancing, 40’s themed libations and hospitality, WWII displays of memorabilia, militaria, vehicles, and re-enactors portraying service men and women of the period, the evening promises to be a festive soiree celebrating not only the rich history of the Flagler Center but also the County’s important role on our nation's history and all those who served during WWII.
“The grace and origin of this beautiful building have been an inspiration to me and the Stuart Main Street Board of Directors, and we wanted to share that with the community in a way that was fun and fitting to its history, during Historic Preservation Month,” says Candace Callahan, Executive Director, Stuart Main Street.
“Not just a military function or the traditional fundraiser, we want to celebrate that unforgettable era of our shared history. This dance is to honor that time when our community and country worked together for a common goal, for the greater good,” says Joe Flanagan, President of Stuart Main Street. “We hope to bring back that wonderful sense of camaraderie and support on May 19, this time for Stuart Main Street and to recognize Historic Preservation Month.”
Guests are encouraged to get into the spirit of the theme, by dressing up in 40’s era fashion. Whether they raid their attic for grandmother’s favorite swing dress, or grandfather’s WWII uniform, or shop for the perfect pair of dance shoes in downtown Stuart the event will be awash in the period.
Tickets are $150.00 and include live entertainment by The Dreamers and the 16th Armored Division Reenactment group, generous and delicious hors d’oeuvres, a signature cocktail, a silent auction, and once-in-a-era photo opportunities. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available. (Silent auction will be live and online one week prior to the event, and is open to everyone, no ticket is required to bid on any auction item.)
To purchase tickets, sponsor, or participate in our auction, visit www.stuartmainstreet.org/uso or by calling 772-286-2848.
Photos provided by Stuart Main Street and Stuart Heritage from archives.
Stuart Main Street is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to building a vital downtown through community self-reliance and a focus on traditional assets: personal service, local ownership, unique architecture, and sense of community. Stuart Main Street aims to improve our downtown and commercial district through preservation-based economic development and community revitalization. Formed in 1987, the organization follows the Main Street Four-Point Approach® as established by the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Main Street Center and practiced in over 1,200 communities across the country.
Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]