Local letter carriers collect more than 68,000 pounds of food to Stamp Out Hunger

US Postal Service workers usually drop off items, but on Saturday, May 13, they picked up items — more than 68,000 pounds of non-perishable items — from mailboxes throughout Martin County.

Stamp Out Hunger is an annual tradition across the country. It was started in 1993 by the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) and has helped feed millions of American over three decades.

Each May, local letter carriers willingly pick up the bags of items that residents leave by their mailboxes and transport them back to their post office branch. From there, dozens of House of Hope volunteers helped unload the bags and put the items in bins. Additional volunteers pick up the bins in trucks and transport them back to House of Hope’s main office.

“We can’t say enough good things about our local letter carriers,” said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “In addition to their real jobs of delivering the mail, on Stamp Out Hunger Saturday, they also gather, lift, and transport cans and boxes of food to help their friends and neighbors in need. We’re grateful to them and to every resident who donated.

House of Hope continues to see more and more families and individuals who need food assistance. “Between the after-effects of the pandemic and the rise in the cost of basic items like food,” Ranieri said, “our services are more in demand than ever.

The food collected during the Stamp Out Hunger drive will be used at the House of Hope service centers in Stuart, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound and Indiantown and will be shared with House of Hope food bank partners.

About House of Hope

Founded in 1984, House of Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship. House of Hope touches the lives of more than 7,000 people each month helping with basic needs such as food, clothing, furniture, financial assistance, as well as longer-term case management services that help build life skills for a more self-sufficient future. The organization has service centers in Stuart, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, and Jensen Beach, and Thrift Shops in South Stuart, Hobe Sound and Indiantown. House of Hope’s Enrichment Centers in Stuart and Jensen Beach offer free programs, technology, and workshops designed to enhance life skills, earning potential, health, and overall well-being. House of Hope also operates the Growing Hope Farm in Palm City and several nutrition gardens that provide sustainable sources of fresh produce for clients as well as nutrition education and vocational opportunities to the community. For more information, visit hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673. Updates and announcements can also be found on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Hohmartin, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/houseofhopemc/, and Twitter https://twitter.com/hohmartin.

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]

Jun. 1, 2023|

Stuart Air Show named one of ten best in country

In announcing the Stuart Air Show as one of the USA Today 10 Best Air Shows in the country, the publication said “The Stuart Air Show is a three-day event in the Treasure Coast area of Florida. Helicopter rides in famous historic vehicles are available for purchase and thrilling performances by nationally-known aerobatic groups fill the skies over Stuart. Visitors can also enjoy static exhibits of a number of impressive aircraft.”

Now everyone knows about the gem of an air show that’s taken place at Witham Field for 34 years, thrilling attendees of all ages.

This year’s show is scheduled for the weekend of November 10-12 and will offer the best-loved features of previous years as well as exciting new additions.

Dewey Vinaya, President of the Stuart Air Show said, “Thanks to our amazing staff and the best volunteers on the Treasure Coast. I can tell you that this year’s show will be the biggest and best ever. And now that the whole country knows about us, we’re expecting record-breaking attendance. You won’t want to miss it.” Ticket sales are live June 1.

To keep up-to-date on news of the Stuart Air Show, visit www.stuartairshow.com.

May. 25, 2023|

House of Hope and Inner Truth build client skills through P.I.E. Lab Project

P.I.E., which stands for Positive Integrated Experiences, is a collaboration between House of Hope and The Inner Truth Project to help women build self-esteem and acquire marketable skills. And it results in good pies.

Clients from The Inner Truth Project, the Treasure Coast’s leader in providing therapeutic services to survivors of sexual trauma, have been working and learning in the kitchen at House of Hope’s Elizabeth Lahti Nutrition Center for several weeks under the direction of House of Hope’s Food Distribution Supervisor Andrew Funcke. Along with learning to make pies, they learned business management, customer service and marketing skills to prepare them for employment, and they graduated from the program with certification in Food Safety.

During the project, House of Hope clients were offered the day’s pies for dessert, but the ultimate goal is to turn pie-making skills into a self-sustaining business that can generate funds for the organizations and the pie-makers themselves.

“We’re so proud of these women,” said Mindi Fetterman, executive director of Inner Truth. “They accepted this challenge to find out how very capable they really are, and they succeeded. The benefits of this program go far beyond what can be measured in the pies they’ve learned to make.”

One of the pie-makers, Summer, talks about the new confidence she’s gained from the program after a very troubled time in her life. “I never made a pie or worked in a group, and I thought I couldn’t do it, but I did. It’s changed my life.”

The culinary class is free to Inner Truth clients thanks to grants awarded House of Hope and The Inner Truth Project, including support from private funders through The Community Foundation of Martin - St. Lucie.

“This project has all of the ingredients for a successful program. As an example of social entrepreneurship, it’s a perfect match with our mission to empower the people we serve to build better futures for themselves and their families,” according to House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “We’ve developed great facilities for food preparation over the years, thanks to generous community donors, and we’re glad to share them with Inner Truth. Plus we all love the pies!”

Future classes will include a broader base of clients from both Inner Truth and House of Hope. Pie sales will eventually help generate revenue to sustain the program and provide a great gift to the community — delicious pies, baked with love.

About House of Hope

May. 4, 2023|

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 50^thanniversary 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.

Apr. 27, 2023|

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 80^th 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 16^th 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.

Apr. 20, 2023|

Hog Technologies announces former VP of Sales to return as President of the company

James P. Crocker, Founder and CEO of HOG Technologies, the leading pavement maintenance and marking removal solution, recently announced the return of Vince Giordano as President of the company:

“I would like to take this opportunity to say how thrilled we are at HOG to have Vince. Vince Giordano recently served as our Vice President of Sales at HOG for four years and made fantastic connections and forward progress both within and outside of the organization. Although he’s been gone for a year now, I feel like he never fully left. As we began to explore the possibility of his return, I felt that the organization would benefit greatly from his leadership at a higher level.

“Vince has a solid grasp on many aspects of HOG, and I know that he will leverage his knowledge and his relationships to effect tremendous results as our President. I will resign as President as of Monday, April 10, 2023, and Vince Giordano will take the reins of leadership.

“As President, Vince will have direct oversight of sales, marketing, operations, customer service, and finance. I will continue in my role as CEO and will also continue my role in leading product development and the field services we offer.

“Vince is a talented communicator, a good organizer, an effective recruiter, a visionary, and a man of action. He motivates others through his own example and his passion for our products and customers. I am confident that everyone will benefit from his capable leadership, whether you are a member of the HOG team or one of our valued customers or vendors.”

About Vince Giordano

Vince Giordano has spent the last twenty-five years as a successful sales leader closing complex sales for large institutions, including Stanford University, Disney, Ochsner Hospital Systems, and large governmental agencies. Most recently, Vince served as Vice President of Business Development for Notes Live. Prior to that, Vince served as Vice President of Global Sales for HOG Technologies. Vince also served as Vice President of Field Sales at NuCO2, where he was recognized with numerous awards, including five straight President Club awards.

Vince earned his Master’s of Business Administration from Quantic School of Business and Technology. He holds many honorable professional certifications, including post-crisis leadership and diversity, equity, & inclusion from the University of South Florida.

Vince is a father of three and holds a black belt in kung fu and a brown belt in jiu-jitsu. He loves God and has a voracious appetite to serve those he works with and for.

Hog Technologies (formerly branded as Waterblasting Technologies) is the leading pavement maintenance and marking removal solution around the world. Hog Technologies is known for the award-winning Stripe Hog Water blasting System along with many other innovations such as the Thermo Hog, Rumble Hog, Epoxy Hog, Grinder Hog, and more. Hog Technologies has vehicles owned in over 57 countries around the world with vehicles operating in over 90 countries.To learn more, visit https://thehog.com/.

Apr. 20, 2023|

Marvin S. Cone Annual High School Juried Art Show returns for 37^th year

The Marvin S. Cone Annual High School Juried Art Show, one of the true treasures of MartinArts’ year, will take place from April 25-June 3 at the Court House Cultural Center.This showcase of student art is a 37-year legacy dating back to 1987 (even before there were galleries in the Court House Cultural Center). This is a capstone educational experience for the participating artists.

2022 Best of Show Emergence by Sophie Araque-Liu, Martin County High School

Teachers of the student artists from South Fork, Martin County and Jensen Beach High Schools, as well as the Pine School and Clark Advanced Learning Center select the entries that will be exhibited in the professional gallery of the Court House Cultural Center.

Experienced judges Renae Barton and William Chiodo will select those who will receive ribbons and cash awards at a reception to be held on May 4 at 5:30 p.m.

The impact of this show on student’s futures is immeasurable. For some, it’s the first time their work has been framed and exhibited and for others, it is the highlight of their life’s work to date. Since The Marvin S. Cohen Juried Art Show’s humble beginnings in 1987, more than 1,500 students have been positively impacted.

The public is invited to attend the awards ceremony at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 4 at the Court House Cultural Center, located at 80 SE Ocean Boulevard in Stuart. A donation of $5 in support of our exhibitions and programs is appreciated.

In addition to the judges’ awards in a variety of categories, a highlight of the evening will be learning which works of art notables from the community in government, business and philanthropy have purchased. Join a celebration that includes the who’s who in arts education across the community and celebrates the accomplishments of young visual artists.

Sponsorships for the exhibition, which will be used to enhance artist awards and framing of the artwork, are available and help ensure the legacy of the Marvin S. Cone Juried Art Show continues and thrives. For more information, visit www.martinarts.org.

Apr. 14, 2023|

Rob Ranieri receives NAACP Presidential Award

Rob Ranieri, CEO of the House of Hope, received the coveted Martin County NAACP Presidential Award during the 2023 Freedom Fund Gala. Jimmy Smith, President of the local branch of the NAACP, introduced the evening’s theme as “Power your Purpose through Service.” Ranieri fits the description perfectly, in the view of NAACP leaders, because of his long-time support of the NAACP and its special projects. In addition, as CEO of House of Hope, he has used his leadership position to help countless members of the community with essential services to improve their quality of life.

House of Hope’s mission is to “empower Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship.” The nonprofit organization provided more than 1.5 million pounds of food to community residents last year alone. During Ranieri’s tenure, House of Hope has added four nutrition gardens and the Traveling Nutrition Garden to help everyone learn more about healthy food and how it grows, established a production farm featuring hydroponic growing techniques, operated three Thrift Stores, and offered enrichment classes in Stuart and Jensen Beach to help individuals develop skill sets that will lead to better lives and better job prospects.

“I want to make clear, in accepting this award,” Ranieri said, “that I’m part of a team. It’s our team of staff, volunteers, community partners and donors who make it possible for House of Hope to serve friends and neighbors in need. On their behalf, I thank the NAACP for recognizing our efforts.”

Chery Campbell, the first female and the first person of color to serve as Assistant Secretary for Administration for the Department of Health and Human Services, was the guest speaker at the Gala. She too promoted the importance of serving the community with purpose and power.

The annual gala, which was suspended during Covid, was back in full force for 2023 and raised funds to continue the work of the NAACP in Martin County.

About House of Hope

Apr. 14, 2023|

Be on hand to welcome veterans home

On Saturday, April 15^th, Palm Beach International Airport will be the place to be as Southeast Florida Honor Flight returns from its first Honor Flight mission of the 2022 season. At 7:20 p.m., veterans will be returning from a full day of being honored and celebrated in Washington, D.C., courtesy of Southeast Florida Honor Flight. This first flight of 2023 includes two veterans who served in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and you can help welcome them home.

As in the past, a crowd of individuals will gather at Palm Beach International Airport to welcome the veterans home from their epic journey and to honor them for their brave and selfless service to our country. Operation Homecoming, which features music, flags, loads of laughter, and a chance to share the memory of a lifetime with American heroes, is free and open to the public.

Every veteran on the flight has stories to share and memories – some they haven’t thought of in decades, and some they have never shared with anyone. During an Honor Flight mission, veterans on the trip are flown at no cost to Washington, DC, where they are served throughout the day by volunteer guardians who have been trained to ensure the safety and enjoyment of each hero veteran flying.

Even if you don’t know anyone on the flight, you will find friends and neighbors in the crowd, and you’ll have a chance to cheer the veterans through the final steps of the day most say they remember as second only to their weddings and births of their children. Well-wishers are encouraged to bring signs, flags, and smiles to share with the veterans and guardians as they return, and you are guaranteed to walk away from the event with a lump in your throat, a smile on your face, and gratitude and pride in your heart for these humble heroes you’ve helped welcome home. Remember, some of these veterans never had the welcome home they so deserve.

If you, your neighbors, your church or social group, or family and friends are interested in being part of something special, please mark your calendars now for Saturday, April 15^th, at 7:20 p.m. at Palm Beach International Airport. Volunteers from the ground crew will direct you on where to go, but be ready for a heartwarming homecoming for some very special veterans and volunteers. To learn more about Southeast Florida Honor Flight and how you can become involved or to donate to the next flight, please visit www.honorflightsefl.org today.

Apr. 6, 2023|

Electrical wholesale distributor opens in Palm City

Electrical wholesale distributor City Electric Supply (CES) recently opened in Palm City, Florida, the company’s 116^th location in the state. The vision to open a Palm City branch came about 14 years ago. Regional Manager Mike Bertone, who was a district manager at the time, was set to open the location.

“CES originally wanted to open a location in Palm City back in 2008, but we decided to put the opening of the new branch on pause, said Mike. “I originally wanted to hire Al Fusco to run the branch, who is now the district manager over this location. It’s a full circle moment for several of us to see this branch come to life.”

“I’m looking forward to what CES Palm City is going to accomplish in this area,” said North Palm Beach District Manager Al Fusco. “The location is in a new industrial park that’s filling up with other businesses. We got in at the perfect time.”

Less than 10 miles from the nearest CES location and five miles west from where the original branch was supposed to be, CES Palm City sits in a new 6,500-square-foot building. After finishing the buildout several months ago, the showroom has 1,500 square feet of space for customers to shop.

“Our customers have been calling us prior to stopping by, so I’ve gotten to know several of them pretty well already,” Branch Manager Tina Vargas.

Tina has worked in the area for over two decades with a variety of experience in the industry and previously held several positions at other CES locations.

“I started with CES working in outside sales. And I was fortunate enough to be the branch manager at the Wellington location for a while. Our counter salesman is a former contractor. He’s familiar with the industry, the business end of things, and he’s great with customers,” said Tina. “We’re already seeing that we’re going to have customers who work in various parts of the state, so we’re excited to help them all to the best of our abilities.”

Tina and her team at CES Palm City are looking forward to the excitement that comes with helping their customers each day.

“Working in this industry, there is never a dull moment,” said Tina. “The team is excited to meet and support customers. Regardless of what their needs are, we’re here to service them in any way we can.”

City Electric Supply is a family-owned electrical wholesale distributor headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The company was founded in 1951 by Tom Mackie in the United Kingdom and expanded to the United States in 1983. Today, CES employs more than 3,000 people in over 550 branches across the U.S.