Business Buzz

Oceanside Rotary honors hometown surgeon Sarbak for humanitarianism

Oceanside Rotary honors hometown surgeon Sarbak for humanitarianism

 

Sandra Lilo, DDS, pins John Sarbak, MD with the Paul Harris Fellow medal.

 

The Rotary Club of Vero Beach Oceanside presented hometown surgeon, John Sarbak, MD, with the Paul Harris Fellow award on behalf of Sandra Lilo, DDS, RotoCleft volunteer and member of Seminole Lakes Rotary Club, at their Sept. 13 meeting.

The Paul Harris Fellow recognizes individuals who make substantial contributions to Rotary and its foundation. Dr. Sarbak received the award for his annual work with RotoCleft, which is currently a part of and operated by the Rotary Club of Seminole Lake Foundation. 

RotoCleft organizes and funds a yearly surgical mission to provide free corrective surgery for children suffering from cleft lip and cleft palate deformities in the Quechuan Indian population in Peru; the area has a very high incidence of cleft palate deformities. This condition is associated with hearing loss, speech difficulty, ear infections, food intake and dental problems. A team of approximately 25 surgeons, anesthesiologist, nurses, non-medical volunteers and bi-lingual facilitators perform up to 35 surgical procedures in a three-day period. The team donates five days and the expense of the trip.  

Dr. Lilo stated, “Dr. Sarbak joined the RotoCleft team in 1999 as a resident and is an anchor for the team and patients. He gives his time and pays his own expenses so these kids can have a chance at life. His generosity and talent are a key reason we have been so successful in providing care to this underserved population.” 

 

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]
Sep. 30, 2022|

Bank of America study says offering financial wellness tools increases employee retention

Bank of America study finds 84% of employers say offering financial wellness tools increases employee retention

97% of employers feel responsible for employee financial wellness, with 91% seeing higher employee satisfaction when offering resources to manage overall wellbeing

BOA Logo

Bank of America announced findings from its 12th annual Workplace Benefits Report, “Navigating a New Era of Financial Wellness.” The report revealed that 84% of employers now say that offering financial wellness tools can help reduce employee attrition, and 81% say wellness tools help attract higher quality employees. This is critical to employers, as 46% have seen an increase in resignations over the past year. In addition, approximately one in three employees have switched jobs or thought about switching jobs in the past year.

The report also explored the impact of the current economic and inflationary environment on employees’ financial wellness, revealing that 62% of employees are stressed about their finances. In addition, 80% of employees are concerned about inflation, and 71% feel the cost of living is outpacing growth in their salary or wages. This is having an impact on employees overall feeling of financial wellness. After the percentage of employees who feel financially well bounced above pre-pandemic levels in February 2022 (57% .vs 55% in 2019), the percentage dropped to a 5-year low of 44% in July 2022.

“Offering comprehensive benefits and wellness programs can be critical for employers looking to reduce attrition, can empower employees to take control of their personal finances, and improve employee satisfaction,” said Lorna Sabbia, Head of Retirement and Personal Wealth Solutions at Bank of America. “We are committed to partnering with employers to provide financial wellness solutions through a holistic and integrated approach that’s actionable for every employee.”

Based on a nationwide survey of 824 employees and 846 employers conducted in February, and a second survey of 478 employees conducted in July, the Workplace Benefits Report examines trends related to workplace financial benefits and wellness programs.

Employers are embracing financial wellness programs and expanding support

In response to increased stress about financial wellness, employers continue to embrace programs to expand support for their employees. For example, 91% of employers see higher employee satisfaction when they offer resources to manage overall wellbeing. Other top employer findings include:

  • Employers feel an increased sense of responsibility for the financial wellness of employees. 97% of employers feel responsible for employee financial wellness (up from 95% in 2021, and from 41% in 2013) – with two-thirds (62%) going as far to say they feel extremely responsible (up from 56% in 2021). Employees agree with this sentiment, as 82% say employers should play a role in supporting their financial wellness.
  • Wellness programs result in tangible benefits for employers and employees. 80% of employers agree that offering financial wellness support can result in more satisfied, loyal, engaged and productive employees. Employers who take it a step further and broaden their wellness programs to include mental and physical wellness resources are seeing noticeable improvements in productivity (50%), employee stress (43%), employee morale (41%) and employee creativity and innovation (36%).
  • Equity grants are powerful recruitment and retention incentives. 76% of employers believe equity compensation is a differentiator for employee recruitment and retention, and 44% of employees who participate in equity compensation plans say it was an important reason for accepting the job.
  • Health care remains an opportunity. 84% of employers feel very responsible for their employees’ understanding of retirement healthcare needs and costs, and 89% of employers who offer Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) contribute to their employees’ savings. Healthcare education is an opportunity, with only 54% of employers communicating about these topics at least once a year.
  • Access to investment advice. With four-in-ten employees saying they want access to advice from an investment professional, 62% of employers are now offering employees access to investment advice services (up from 55% in 2021).
  • Heightened focus on D&I programs. 74% of employers believe that diversity and inclusion programs are important for retaining talent, and half (50%) of employers currently offer diversity and inclusion programs.

Employees seeking programs to help alleviate financial strain and plan for the future

Employees express uncertainty about current economic conditions and are taking actions to relieve financial strain:

  • Employees are dipping into savings due to financial strain. Half of employees have taken action in the last six months due to financial strain, including tapping into emergency savings (21%), working additional hours (21%), looking for higher paying jobs (20%) and taking out a 401(k) hardship withdrawal (6%).
  • Retirement remains a top concern, driving action. As of July 2022, 56% of employees are confident they will reach their retirement goals, down from 69% in February 2022. Seventy-four percent say investing in their 401(k) and other accounts will help them build a retirement nest egg, and 61% are contributing enough to maximize their employer match.
  • Education about Social Security is an opportunity. Only 38% of employees say they understand social security benefits. Even among Baby Boomers, 41% still do not understand social security. While 48% of employees indicate they are not getting enough education about the program, only 40% of employers offer employees social security support and education.
  • Employees are more optimistic about their intermediate, longer term future. When looking at the next 2-3 years, most employees said they felt optimistic about their financial (56%), social (60%), and mental (62%) well-being.
  • Digital tools play a key role in driving employee engagement. Employees are seeking out digital tools that offer personalized support, and employees find tools that can provide streamlined information and help track and set financial goals most useful. Fifty-two percent of employees prefer to use a digital app to manage their finances.

Financial wellness levels vary based on employees’ ethnicity, gender and generation

Employees continue to show differences in financial wellness when viewed by gender, ethnicity or generation. Though the financial wellness gap has closed for women, it has expanded for minorities since February. Top findings include:

  • Women lag men but are closing the gap when planning for long-term goals.Women continue to trail men in their feelings about financial wellness and preparedness. For example, 54% of men and 69% of women do not understand social security benefits. Despite this, the financial wellness gender gap is closing. As of July 2022, women were less likely to feel financially well than men by five percentage points (42% of women .vs 47% of men), down from 10 percentage points in 2021 (47% of women .vs 57% of men) and 17 percentage points in 2020 (41% of women .vs 58% of men).
  • Minorities have seen a greater negative impact to their feelings of financial wellness. Employees across various ethnicities reported significant drops in their perceptions of financial wellness, with minorities reporting more significant declines. For example, 49% of White/Caucasian employees feel financially well (compared with 56% in February), followed by 37% of Asian employees (67% in February), 33% of Hispanic/Latino employees (47% in February) and 32% of Black/African American employees (50% in February).
  • Feelings of financial wellness have declined across generations this year. Since February, feelings of financial wellness have declined significantly across generations, with Gen Z/Millennials at -15%, Gen Xers at -14% and Baby Boomers/Silent Generation at -10%.

Bank of America’s Retirement & Personal Wealth Solutions organization serves more than 26,000 companies of all sizes and more than 5.9 million employees as of December 31, 20211. Bank of America offers institutional client employees a range of financial benefit programs and solutions to help them pursue their financial future.

More findings, including action steps for employers, are available in the Bank of America 2022 Workplace Benefits Report.

Workplace Benefits Report Methodology

Escalent surveyed a national sample of 834 employees who are working full-time and participate in 401(k) plans, and 846 employers who offer both a 401(k) plan and have sole or shared responsibility for decisions made in the plan. The survey was conducted between February 3, 2022 and February 28, 2022. To qualify for the survey, employees had to be current participants of a 401(k) plan and employers had to offer a 401(k) plan option. Neither was required to work with Bank of America. Bank of America was not identified as the sponsor of the study. Bank of America Retirement & Personal Wealth Solutions help employers and employees to take action and work toward their financial goals today and into retirement.

July 2022 Pulse Study Methodology

Escalent surveyed a national sample of 478 employees who are working full-time and participate in 401(k) plans. The survey was conducted between July 5, 2022 and July 19, 2022. To qualify for the survey, employees had to be current participants of a 401(k) plan. They weren’t required to work with Bank of America. Bank of America was not identified as the sponsor of the study. Bank of America Retirement and Personal Wealth Solutions help employers and employees to take action and work toward their financial goals today and into retirement.

Financial Wellness at Bank of America

At Bank of America, we know that supporting the physical, financial and emotional wellbeing of our employees in their personal life also supports them in their work life — so they can be the best at work and at home. When it comes to financial wellness, we believe that the more informed people are about their money, the clearer their financial outlook can be. This applies not just to our clients, but to our employees, as well. This is why we offer robust financial offerings to our employees that focus on driving better behaviors across life priorities and the financial spectrum — budgeting, planning, saving, investing and more. Our competitive financial benefits – including 401(k) plans that include a company match, retirement advice2, health savings accounts3, banking4 and investing5 programs, educational resources and financial wellness tools – help employees address money issues in the here-and-now, prepare for retirement and help protect their family over the long term.

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 67 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,000 retail financial centers, approximately 16,000 ATMs and award-winning digital banking with approximately 55 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 approximately 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (ATMs) 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]
Sep. 30, 2022|

Bank of America payments and spending data shows continued small business resiliency

Bank of America payments and spending data shows continued small business resiliency

Small business payments per client increased 11% year over year in August; Card spending per client increased 13% year over year

 

The Bank of America Institute released a new publication which finds continued resilience in small businesses. New Bank of America small business data shows that, despite economic headwinds, small businesses continue to strengthen in a variety of areas, including credit and debit card spending, business travel expenditures and payroll payments. Overall small business payments per client increased 11% year over year in August, up from 3% year over year in the prior month. Card spending per client increased 13% year over year last month, outpacing July’s 7% growth rate.

One important reason for the continued resiliency in small businesses is the return of business travel. According to the US Travel Association, business travel accounted for more than a quarter of total travel spending in the US prior to the pandemic. Bank of America internal data indicates that the number of travel transactions per small business client is at 90% of the 2019 annual average, the highest level since the pandemic began. This includes airlines, lodging, cruise lines, travel agency, car rental and other transportation. Furthermore, small business card spending per client for travel increased 31% year over year in August, up from 19% in July.

Small businesses also continue to see strength in payroll payments. The average overall payroll spend per client was up 11% year over year in July on a 3-month rolling average, suggesting robust hiring and wage growth momentum. Restaurant and bar payroll payments are easing from recent highs, down to a still resilient 18% year over year in August.

Other highlights of the publication include:

  • Small business card spending varied greatly across annual income tiers, and small businesses with greater annual revenues spent at a faster pace than those with lower annual revenues.
  • For small businesses with annual sales revenue higher than $1 million, card spending per client for travel was up the most, at 43% year over year in August. This increase was partially due to a reversal of the depressed levels of spending on business travel last August due to the spread of the Delta variant.
  • After-tax wages based on the internal Bank of America consumer deposit data for small business clients were up 6.1% year over year on a 3-month rolling basis in August (for more please see our latest Consumer Checkpoint). This outpaces data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which finds that average hourly earnings for August increased by 5.2% year-over-year.

“Despite economic headwinds like high inflation, small businesses are heading into the fall with cautious optimism,” said Anna Zhou, economist for the Bank of America Institute. “We see things like the rebound in small business travel and resilience in payroll payments as further evidence the economy is getting back on track.”

Small Business Checkpoint

Small Business Checkpoint is a regular publication from the Bank of America Institute. It aims to provide a real-time assessment of small business spending activities and financial well-being, leveraging the depth and breadth of Bank of America’s proprietary data. Such data is not intended to be reflective or indicative of, and should not be relied upon as, the results of operations, financial conditions, or performance of Bank of America.

See the Small Business Checkpoint for methodology and definitions.

 

BOA Logo

Bank of America Institute

The Bank of America Institute is dedicated to uncovering powerful insights that move business and society forward. Established in 2022, the Institute is a think tank that draws on data and analyses from across the bank and the world to provide timely and original perspectives on the economy, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), and global transformation. The Institute leverages the depth and breadth of the bank’s proprietary data, from 67 million consumer and small business clients, 54 million verified digital users, $3.8T in total payments in 2021 and $1.4T in consumer and wealth management deposits. From this robust data set, the Institute provides a unique perspective on the health of the economy. It also elevates thought leadership from throughout the bank that addresses long-term trends and shares these findings with the general public.

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 67 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,000 retail financial centers, approximately 16,000 ATMs, and award-winning digital banking with approximately 55 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 approximately 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]
Sep. 19, 2022|

Former fortune 500 executive returns to Fort Pierce to inspire students and community

Former fortune 500 executive returns to Fort Pierce to inspire students and community

IRSC to host ‘Soaring: Turning Challenges into Success’ with Lee Rhyant on Sept. 22

 

The public is invited to join Lee E. Rhyant, former executive vice president and general manager for Lockheed-Martin Marietta and Fort Pierce native son, on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. for a community conversation in support of his new book, Soaring Eleven Guiding Principles on the Path from Segregation to Success, co-authored with Dr. Catherine Lewis.

The program will take place at the Kight Center for Emerging Technologies, Room V-110, on the Indian River State College Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Ave. in Fort Pierce. The talk will be followed by a meet and greet and book signing with the authors. The event is free and open to the public.

A powerful underdog story, Soaring delivers practical leadership advice, business lessons, and tips for career and personal success mined from Rhyant’s 40 years as a corporate leader. Born into poverty in the postwar South, Rhyant was the fourth of eight children raised by a family of sharecroppers struggling to survive the last decades of segregation.

As a child, Lee’s family moved to Fort Pierce, and with help from his family, teachers, clergy, and local community, reached the executive ranks at General Motors, Rolls-Royce Aeronautics, and Lockheed-Martin. During “Soaring: Turning Challenges into Success,” Rhyant and co-author Dr. Catherine Lewis will share his guiding principles and tips for success to demonstrate the transformative power of perseverance.

“I’m cannot think of a better place to launch the publication of this book than in my hometown,” shares Lee Rhyant. “Fort Pierce shaped me into the person I am today, and my family and I owe so much to this community. Indian River State College helped change the trajectory of my life, and I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire and motivate a new generation to strive for success.”

The event at IRSC marks the launch of the book Soaring Eleven Guiding Principles on the Path from Segregation to Success (UGA Press, 2022).

 

More about Lee Rhyant

From 2000 to 2011, Rhyant served as Executive Vice President and General Manager for Lockheed-Martin Marietta. Since leaving the aerospace industry, Lee has been highly sought after as an executive coach and confidant to Fortune 500 executives across the industrial spectrum. He is the President and CEO of LER Solutions, an executive coaching firm in Atlanta, and a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

About Dr. Catherine Lewis

Dr. Catherine Lewis is assistant vice president for Museums, Archives & Rare Books and professor of history at Kennesaw State University. She has curated more than 40 exhibitions around the nation and is the author, co-author, or co-editor of fifteen books.

 

Media interested in covering the event or seeking an advance interview with Lee Rhyant should contact Suzanne Seldes at [email protected] or 772-462-7265.

 

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]

 

Aug. 29, 2022|

Hand & Stone announces grand opening of new spa in Port St. Lucie

Hand & Stone announces grand opening of new spa in Port St. Lucie

Elizabeth Whitby brings premier massage and facial spa brand to the East Port community

 

 

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, the nation’s leading luxury massage and facial spa franchise, announced the opening of its newest franchised location in Port St. Lucie. Located at 9144 US Highway 1, the new Hand & Stone Port St. Lucie East Port spa is owned and operated by experienced multi-unit franchisee Elizabeth Whitby, who owns four other successful Hand & Stone spas in Winter Park, Palm City and the Melbourne area. With the opening of her newest spa, Whitby brings Hand & Stone’s signature luxury spa experience to East Port, making high-end wellness services affordable and accessible to the coastal community.

 

“As an experienced Hand & Stone franchise owner, I have no doubt we will have great success with this new East Port location,” said Elizabeth Whitby, owner of Hand & Stone Port St. Lucie East Port. “It is exciting to be part of a growing presence in Port St. Lucie and Florida, providing accessible self-care and an unmatched guest experience that is far from one size fits all.”The newest Hand & Stone Port St. Lucie spa features high-quality professional massage services, including Swedish, Himalayan Salt, Sports, Deep Tissue, Oncology and Prenatal massages.

 

Guests can also visit the new spa to enjoy Hand & Stone’s signature hot stone massage and best-in-class facial treatments tailored to each individual's needs or skin concerns, with a wide-range of services available for women, men and teens.Like all Hand & Stone spas nationwide, the new Port St. Lucie East Port location offers advanced skincare and spa services that incorporate new technologies at the forefront of the wellness market to enhance each guest’s overall experience. These advanced services include Decompression Therapy massage, Dermalinfusion facial, NuFACE microcurrent facial, Percussive Therapy massage and LED Phototherapy facial, as well as innovations such as CBD oil enhancements and partnerships with award-winning skincare lines Dermalogica® and ClarityRX (CBD offerings vary by market).

 

All Hand & Stone services are performed by experienced licensed estheticians and massage therapists. The brand’s commitment to guest experience has translated to an unparalleled level of expertise at each location, supported by best-in-class training and ongoing education resources. At Hand & Stone Port St. Lucie East Port, members will have access to a team of wellness experts who specialize in providing exceptional skincare and massage treatments, ensuring a tranquil, relaxing and comfortable environment. The Port St. Lucie East Port Hand & Stone spa is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information about Hand & Stone’s massage and facial services or to schedule an appointment, call (772) 251-1205 or visit www.handandstoneportstlucieeastport.com.

 

ABOUT HAND & STONE MASSAGE AND FACIAL SPA

Hand & Stone is a 500-plus unit massage and facial spa franchise with a mission to bring massage and facial services to the masses. Launched in 2004, Hand & Stone now has locations in 35 states and Canada. Over the past several years, the brand has garnered noteworthy industry recognition including being named No. 1 in the spa category by Entrepreneur Magazine, ranked No. 8 on Forbes' Best Franchises to Buy list in the high investment category and is the fastest-growing spa concept in the country. For more information on Hand & Stone, visit www.handandstonefranchise.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]
Aug. 11, 2022|

The Grove, Cucina & Wine earns Wine Spectator restaurant award in 2022, third year in a row

The Grove, Cucina & Wine earns Wine Spectator restaurant award in 2022, third year in a row 

The Grove, Cucina & Wine Bar among 3,776 winners; awards program for World’s Best Wine Lists pays tribute to resilience of restaurant industry amid global pandemic

 

 

The Grove Pizza Cucina & Wine Bar was honored for the third year in a row for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator’s 2022 Restaurant Awards, which celebrate the world’s best restaurants for wine.

“I want to congratulate all 3,169 restaurants that earned one of Wine Spectator’s three awards for their devotion to all things wine,” said Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher, Wine Spectator. “These awards not only guide our readers to dining establishments with impressive wine lists and outstanding service but also serve to honor restaurants for their achievements and commitment to maintaining pristine cellars. We are thrilled to reveal our 2022 Dining Guide, which points to places where wine drinkers are warmly welcomed.”

“Luis and I are thrilled to be recognized by the Wine Spectator for our dedication to excellence with our Award of Excellence again in 2022. As long-time Martin County residents, it’s an honor to bring light to our work and dedication to elevating the dining scene and level of hospitality here in Martin County.” -Jen Reyneri, Sommelier and Co-Owner “We recently returned from our Southern Italian culinary research trip to this awesome news, and are excited to share our love for food and wine with our community, guests, and wine club members.” States Co-Owner Luis Reyneri, Advanced Sommelier and Certified Wine Educator.


About The Grove, Pizza Cucina & Wine Bar

Excerpt, Wine Spectator, 8 Piping-Hot Pizza Places with Terrific Wine Lists “Jen and Luis Reyneri, the wife-and-husband owners of the Grove Pizza Cucina & Wine Bar, met 20 years ago in Orlando, Fla. Driven by a passion for wine, the couple spent time living abroad in Europe, visiting a variety of winegrowing regions including Italy, France, Spain and Germany. With some global perspective under their belt, the Reyneris returned to Florida to open their restaurant in 2019, and the Grove earned its first Award of Excellence one year later. Luis oversees the frequently evolving wine list. Chef Ian McCue crafts seasonal Italian dishes plus specialty pizzas with options like chicken pesto and burrata flatbread, using fresh produce brought in daily and sauces made in-house.”

The Grove was established in 2019, but the journey to its inception spans over 20 years and two continents. Husband & wife sommelier team/owner-operators are on mission to carefully curate cuisine &  culture by providing world-class hospitality experiences in their small, sleepy beach town. Frequently, guests comment since The Grove came to town, they have escalated the culture through culinary and hospitality as forerunners in this up and coming community. The dynamic duo of Jen and Luis Reyneri met over 20 years ago in Orlando, Florida. Since then, the hospitality industry has taken the Reyneri family, including their two sons, all over the world including a year abroad in Europe studying food and wine. With international experience under their belts, they returned to Las Vegas and later back to their roots and family in South Florida to open The Grove in 2019, going on to win Wine Spectator Award of Excellences in 2020 , 2021 & 2022 and won Diner’s Choice for Best Food through Open Table two years in a row. The Reyneri’s not only pride themselves with excellence in service to their guests with a talented certified culinary team, but in building a strong, family-like team culture where Cuban coffee is served at pre-shift every day. Many employees have celebrated  3 year work anniversaries at The Grove and have been promoted from within.  Most recently, the Reyneri’s are expanding their philanthropic outreach with the creation of the Treasure Coast Charity Wine Auction, a newly incorporated 501-C3 with its first events to follow this fall. Follow the Grove online at TheGroveHobeSound.com and on Facebook or Instagram @TheGroveHobeSound 

The Grove, Pizza Cucina & Wine has won the AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: The Award of Excellence recognizes restaurants whose wine lists feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.

Follow the Restaurant Awards on Twitter and Instagram, with hashtag #WSRestaurantAward, and The Grove on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Winners are also profiled in the free Restaurant Awards app, available for iPhone and iPad users. Wine Spectator’s special Restaurant Awards issue became available to readers July 12.

About Wine Spectator

Wine Spectator is the world’s leading authority on wine. Anchored by Wine Spectator magazine, a print publication that reaches around 3 million readers worldwide, the brand also encompasses the Web’s most comprehensive wine site (WineSpectator.com), mobile platforms and a series of signature events. Wine Spectator examines the world of wine from the vineyard to the table, exploring wine’s role in contemporary culture and delivering expert reviews of more than 15,000 wines each year. Parent company M. Shanken Communications, Inc., also publishes Cigar Aficionado, Whisky Advocate, Market Watch, Shanken News Daily and Shanken’s Impact Newsletter.

Wine Spectator began its program to recognize the world’s best wine lists in 1981. There are three levels: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence and the Grand Award—with 1,782; 1,290; and 97 winners this year in each respective category.

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]
Aug. 2, 2022|

Florida SBDC Network to host inaugural Small Business Success Summit

Florida SBDC Network to host inaugural Small Business Success Summit

 

 

The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, the state’s principal provider of small business assistance, will host the inaugural Small Business Success Summit on June 27-28, 2022 at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. The summit, themed “Contracts, Capital and Connections” will provide opportunities for small business owners from across the state to learn strategies to access capital, win contracts, and make valuable connections.

The summit will feature keynote speakers, over 12 breakout sessions, and networking opportunities that will help small businesses take their business to the next level.

“I am very excited for the Florida SBDC Network to come together to host the first Small Business Success Summit,” said Greg Britton, Florida SBDC Network State Director. “Our team of professionals, along with our partners from across the state, look forward to the event to help our state’s small businesses start, grow and thrive.

The summit will kick off with a welcome reception Monday, June 27, and conference programming will occur Tuesday, June 28. The standard registration fee is $199, with a discounted, early-bird rate of $175 available until May 29.

The Florida SBDC Network extends its gratitude to this year’s sponsors and partners: Florida Power & Light, United Midwest Savings Bank, Thryv, Intuit Quickbooks, CareerSource Florida, and the Florida Economic Development Council.

For more information about the Small Business Success Summit, and to register, please visit www.floridasbdc.org/success_summit.

 

About the Florida SBDC Network:

For more than 45 years, the Florida SBDC Network, the state’s principal provider of business assistance [Fl. Stat. 288.001], has nourished a statewide partnership between higher education and economic development to provide existing and emerging small and medium-sized business owners with management and knowledge resources that enable overall growth, increased profitability, and economic prosperity for Florida’s economy. In 2020, the Florida SBDC Network delivered more than 162,500 hours of consulting to more than 24,000 small businesses, resulting in 38,797 jobs impacted, $7.4 billion in sales generated, $553.5 million in capital accessed, and $488.1 million in government contracts acquired. With over 40 offices statewide, the Florida SBDC is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Department of Defense, State of Florida and other private and public partners. The Florida SBDC Network, headquartered at the University of West Florida, is nationally accredited by the Association of SBDCs and is a recipient of the President’s E Award for Export Service. Florida SBDC services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Language assistance services are available for individuals with limited English proficiency. For more information, please visit www.FloridaSBDC.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]

May. 23, 2022|

Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County announces Keynote for Youth of the Year Celebration 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County announces Keynote for Youth of the Year Celebration 

 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County announced a keynote speaker for the Youth of the Year award dinner and celebration, Caleb Wesco. The annual event will be held live on Thursday, March 10, 6-8 p.m. at St. Mary's Church, Ross Hall. 623 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart.

Palm Beach County native and Boys & Girls Club Alumni Caleb Wesco is known for his most energetic, educational, and inspiring keynote engagements and presentations. Since becoming a dynamic motivational speaker more than ten years ago, he has traveled to 45 states and international destinations like London and Zimbabwe, sharing his motivational message with as many people, especially students, as he can. He has been featured five times in Teachers Matter Magazine and on local television as a speaker and philanthropist.

"I'm committed to inspiring people, motivating them, and helping them unlock the best version of themselves," says Wesco. "With that commitment, everything else will fall in line."

"Wesco's motto is Let's Get Motivated," says Jeronda Hill, BGCMC Area Director and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Officer. "Incredibly engaging and energetic, he encourages the audience to get the MOST out of life. And we are thrilled he can come and inspire our Youth of the Year, Class of 2022, and event attendees."

The annual Youth of the Year is one of BGCMC's signature programs recognizing members who exemplify the Boys & GirlsClub's mission. A celebration of the extraordinary achievements of Club teens, those who earn the Youth of the Year title embody core club values of good character and citizenship, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles.

 

BGCMC Class of 2022 includes: 

  • Nereida A., representing the Bill & Barbara Whitman Club, Indiantown
  • Javien E., representing the John & Marge Bolton Club, Port Salerno Club
  • Fredd G., representing the Cole-Clark Club, Hobe Sound

Nereida, a junior at Southfork High School, has served as a KeystoneClub advisor, JuniorStaff, soccer aide, and community volunteer. Nereida credits the Club for believing in her and as a result, helping her blossom into a strong young woman and emerging leader. "My Club has taught me the importance of giving back," she says. "I lead my peers in keeping our neighborhood clean, helping with the soccer program, and helping with the arts program."

Javien has served as vice president of SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco), Torch Club member, and Honor Roll student. "The Club has helped me mature from being closed-off," he said. "It has allowed me to open up and grow as a person. I want to help younger members and my siblings because I am passionate about being involved in the Boys & Girls Club because I know it helped me grow up into the leader I am today."

Fredd is president of the Torch Club and SWAT, Team Captain, Culinary Assistant, and poet. He is an immigrant from Peru and understands the importance of perseverance while having an open mind and a kind heart. Fredd feels that great leaders influence others to be better and that his Club leaders always remind him to be a positive influence wherever he goes. "I am lucky to be a part of Boys & Girls Clubs," says Fredd. "I always look forward to coming to the Club, and they always make me feel better. The Club has given me the greatest council and support I would ever need."

Youth of the Year would not be possible without the community-minded and generous support of sponsors. 2022 sponsors includes Presenting & Blue Carpet Sponsor- The Arati Hammond Team at Keller Williams Real Estate, and our Thrive Sponsors are Cleveland Clinic Martin Health, PNC Bank, Publix Super Markets Charities, Casco Tools, and Carol Webb.

Tickets for the program are $75 per person or $125 for two tickets and are available online at www.bgcmartin.org/YOY2022. Sponsor opportunities remain and may also be found online or by emailing [email protected]

 

About BGCMC 

For more than 30 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County has provided award-winning programs designed to guide and inspire young people ages 6-18 to learn, grow and mature in route to becoming successful adults. Each of the four clubs enjoys strong partnerships with local schools and communities. Such cohesion ensures that Boys & Girls Clubs' programs complement and enrich the curriculum our members learn in class and remain attuned to the challenges and opportunities they face on a day-today basis. The clubs offer opportunities for fun, fitness, STEAM activities, and certified teachers work with club members on everything from tutoring and homework help to specialized courses that prepare them for careers in various trades.

 

 

Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at https://tcbusiness.com tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email mailto:[email protected] [email protected]

 

Mar. 7, 2022|

Local Business Highlight: The Saussie Pig

Local Business Highlight: The Saussie Pig

 

Owner Tashiema Brown and his son Tre'Bon provided by Leah Voss/TC Palm

 

Tashiema “Beemer” Brown is doing the food truck thing in reverse. Instead of growing his business, he decided to downsize from brick-and-mortar restaurants to a food truck: The Saussie Pig.

“Bigger isn’t always better,” Brown said.

Brown, who moved to Vero Beach about 15 years ago, owned a dump truck business until the economy crashed, and he had to figure out something else to do for work. He thought of his first job at age 14 at a rib joint in his native Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

“I moved my family here and I didn’t want to move them back there because where I grew up and here is night and day,” Brown said. “This is like vacation. I knew I wanted to keep my family here.

“So I went back to what I knew — cooking and barbecue.”

Starting outside Vero Beach bars

Brown bought a smoker and he hauled it around town with his truck.

“I would set up outside of different bars throughout the community as they closed, and it just kind of took off,” Brown said.

He then bought a small trailer and started working some events. He also had opened a restaurant in Fellsmere and a sports bar in Vero Beach, but he was done dealing with employees. He wanted a family-run business with his wife, brother, daughter and sons.

He had bought the yellow truck about five years ago, but he didn’t renovate it until two months before the coronavirus pandemic.

Because of the nature of the business, the pandemic didn’t hurt his food truck.

“We stayed busy the entire time,” Brown said. “This truck never shut down.”

Naming menu items after customers

The Saussie Pig is named for its pulled pork sandwiches.

“You don’t have to ask for extra sauce,” Brown said. “We put enough on there.”

The sandwiches are named after people. The “Bender” — topped with coleslaw and a slice of pineapple — is named after a “surfer dude” customer, he said. The “Harvey” — topped with bacon, cheese and jalapeno — is named after Brown’s partner when he first started the food truck.

“These creations came from outside of the bars at night,” Brown said. “Every sandwich that I have on there, it was created by someone outside of a bar at 2 a.m. And the names just stuck.”

The sandwiches are named after people. The “Bender” — topped with coleslaw and a slice of pineapple — is named after a “surfer dude” customer, he said. The “Harvey” — topped with bacon, cheese and jalapeno — is named after Brown’s partner when he first started the food truck.

“These creations came from outside of the bars at night,” Brown said. “Every sandwich that I have on there, it was created by someone outside of a bar at 2 a.m. And the names just stuck.”

 

Dec. 13, 2021|

Producer of Conductors arrives at Tradition

 Producer of Conductors arrives at Tradition

 

Accel rendering

Rendering of Accel International’s new manufacturing facility in the Tradition Center for Commerce.

 

Accel International Holdings, Inc., a producer of high-performance conductors, broke ground on December 9, 2021 at the Tradition Center for Commerce in Port St. Lucie for the company’s newest manufacturing facility.

At least 125 new jobs will be created by the company’s capital investment of $55 million for its new 150,000-square-foot facility and manufacturing equipment. Average annual earnings per worker at the Tradition facility are estimated to be $47,000 plus benefits, 16% higher than St. Lucie County’s average wage.

Originally established in a garage in 2002 and now headquartered in Meriden, Connecticut, Accel currently operates three manufacturing facilities in Indiana and Connecticut.  The company produces and distributes high-performance wire and cable products for use in aerospace, medical and telecommunications equipment.

“We are excited to expand our footprint into Florida and tap into the great resources that the city of Port St. Lucie has to offer. We also look forward to becoming an important part of the community,” said Accel Chief Financial Officer Tim Cummings.

“Accel will be a wonderful asset for our community.  The company’s manufacturing jobs are exactly the type of higher-wage jobs we have been wanting for our county’s dynamic workforce,” said St. Lucie County Commission Chair Sean Mitchell. “Accel is also planning on training partnerships with our schools and that is a great opportunity for students throughout our county.”

“Today’s groundbreaking on Accel International’s 40 acres in the Tradition Center for Commerce is another milestone in the ongoing diversification of the city’s economy,” said Port St. Lucie Mayor Shannon Martin. “In addition to higher-wage jobs, investment by companies like Accel make it possible for the city to continue to provide a high level of services and amenities for our residents while also reducing tax rates.”

“We began our relationship with Accel over two years ago by initially searching for an exciting facility to renovate.  Not being able to find a viable option, we considered many alternatives within the southeastern U.S. for a ground-up facility and finally chose Port St. Lucie,” said Malcolm Sina, executive chairman of Sina Companies, the project’s developer. “Having developed projects in over 30 states, it has been a real pleasure working with everyone in the city of Port St. Lucie, St. Lucie County, and the state of Florida.”

“This is what we do. It’s exactly what we need to be focusing on, in particular a focus on manufacturing,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce Mark Adler, who attended the Accel International Dec. 9 groundbreaking in his first official appearance following his appointment to the position of commerce secretary and interim president/CEO of Enterprise Florida on Dec. 8. “Florida is open for business.” The state funded $3 million in 2017 toward the development of road the facility is located on.

“Our focus on recruiting clean, high-paying manufacturing jobs to St. Lucie County continues to pay off,” said Pete Tesch, president of the Economic Development Council of St. Lucie County.  “We are very proud that Port St. Lucie was selected for Accel’s expansion over two sites in Connecticut and one in North Carolina.”

The company’s vice president of sales, Kyle Senk, told the approximately 100 groundbreaking ceremony attendees that Accel’s manufacturing equipment is expected to arrive at the new facility in June or July. Senk said the project is the company’s largest capital investment to date, and will be its most technologically advanced.

 

About the Economic Development Council of St. Lucie County

The EDC is a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting economic vitality in St. Lucie County through the attraction, retention and expansion of businesses in the community.  The EDC works in partnership with local governments and the private sector to advance its goals of creating more and better-paying jobs for residents, broadening the tax base and improving St. Lucie County’s economic quality of life.  Contact the EDC at 772.336.6250 or www.youredc.com.

About Accel International Holdings

Accel is a premier manufacturer of high-performance conductors serving the aerospace, medical, industrial and computer marketplace with silver-plated, nickel-plated and tin-plated copper and copper alloy products. Established in 2006, Accel is a privately owned company with three manufacturing locations in Connecticut and Indiana, serving the domestic marketplace with international activity in Canada, Mexico and China.

 

Groundbreaking Photo by Maureen Saltzer

Local officials and representatives from Accel International and Sina Companies break ground Dec. 9 at the Tradition Center for Commerce.

 

Dec. 13, 2021|