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Rock-A-Thon to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity of Martin County

Proceeds from rocking chair relay event will help build homes for deserving families

Habitat For Humanity of Martin County is gearing up for the 2010 Rock-A-Thon, Saturday, Dec. 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lowe’s, 3620 S.E. Federal Highway in Stuart.

“This is a great opportunity for the community to support Habitat for Humanity, even if they’re unable to help with the construction of homes on the job site,” said Mary Jones, director of volunteer services for Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. “The beauty of a Rock-A-Thon is that almost everyone can rock in a rocking chair!”

The event will take place at Lowe’s in the parking lot across from the garden center and will feature live entertainment, children’s activities, a silent auction featuring robust gift baskets, raffle prizes and refreshments. Funds raised will help build homes for deserving families throughout Martin County.

Join Habitat volunteers, homeowners, students, civic groups and local congregations at this fun-filled event to support the Habitat mission. There are several ways to get involved:

• Rock as a team or individual – sign up now to begin fundraising!
• Pledge to sponsor a rocker or team – donations start at $1 per minute.
• Sponsor the event – sponsorship opportunities range from $50 to $250.
• Enter to win a 32-inch LG television – tickets are $10 each or six for $50.
• Stop by the Rock-A-Thon (it’s FREE!) and cheer on the rockers and enjoy the live entertainment.

To register or to learn more, visit HabitatMartin.org or call Habitat for Humanity of Martin County at (772) 223-9940.

Special thanks to Lowe’s of Stuart for hosting the event, as well as the generous “Rock Star” sponsors, 99.7 Jack FM, Advanced Technologies Group, Bank Atlantic, E-Z-On, New Growth Media, Pampered Chef, and Roegiers, Goldin, Chappel, Nall & Associates.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County
Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, call (772) 223-9940 or visit HabitatMartin.org.

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County kicks off Women Build 2011 with luncheon and shopping event

Building Blocks Luncheon offers unique opportunity to purchase materials needed for Women Build home

STUART, Fla., Sept. 7, 2010 – Habitat for Humanity of Martin County will kick off its 2011 Women Build program with a special “Building Blocks Luncheon” and shopping event at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 6 at Harbour Bay Plaza’s Palm Room, 3720 S.E. Ocean Blvd., Stuart.

Beginning at 11 a.m., attendees will have a unique opportunity to buy everything needed to complete the 2011 Women Build home, even the kitchen sink! The shopping list includes all the necessary “building blocks,” from footer concrete, paint and roofing nails to doors, cabinets and appliances. Items are listed per unit at Habitat’s actual cost, ranging from $12 to $3,500. All donations are tax-deductible and tax receipts will be provided.

The luncheon and presentation will begin at 12 p.m. with passionate testimonials from Habitat volunteers and staff, as well as past and present Women Build home recipients, detailing the profound impact this program has on the Martin County community and its female participants. Renato’s Italian Ristorante will cater the luncheon with a menu featuring a salad, choice of chicken marsala or eggplant parmesan and dessert.

“We are so grateful for the opportunity to build our fourth Women Build home for a very special family,” said Mary Jones, director of volunteer services at Habitat for Humanity of Martin County. “Habitat is blessed with amazing staff members, volunteers and community partners who contribute their sweat and tears, time and money to this wonderful cause. We look forward to working with them and meeting new faces at our upcoming luncheon.”

The 2011 Women Build home will be built for Shameeka Dixon and her two 4-year-old boys in the Hobe Sound community of Banner Lake. Dixon is already contributing to Habitat’s sweat equity requirement of 300 volunteer hours and construction of her home will begin in January. She will purchase the home with a no-profit loan and her monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat homes.

“Owning a home means everything to me. I’ll be setting up a great foundation for my children and they’ll have a place to call home,” says Dixon. “It’s also a great achievement for me to reach one of my life-long goals.”

Luncheon tickets are $35 and seating is limited. Reservations must be made prior to Sept. 30 by calling Habitat for Humanity of Martin County at (772) 223-9940. To view the “Building Blocks Shopping List” or for more information, visit HabitatMartin.org and click on “Women Build.”

About Women Build
Women Build is a Habitat for Humanity International program that encourages women and girls to have fun and make a difference by building homes and communities. Women crews around the world have built thousands of homes since Women Build’s official creation in 1998. Each year, more homes are added as affiliates, donors and sponsors discover the impact of women volunteers and their resources.

Fast Facts

• Women Build empowers women to build Habitat homes, enabling them to positively impact the lives of children by making home ownership a present reality for families.
• Women Build is not about excluding men; it's about including women.
• Women are often intimidated on a “mixed” construction site; but in the comfortable environment of Women Build, they quickly learn construction skills.
• When women come together in a supportive environment, they feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment and increased self-esteem.
• More than 12 million U.S. children – one in six – are living in poverty. Poverty is a severe threat to children's health, growth and potential.
• Women need not wait for others to address substandard housing issues. They have the capability and determination to be part of the solution.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County
Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, call (772) 223-9940 or visit HabitatMartin.org.

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County teams up with Educate Tomorrow on ‘green home’ build

STUART, Fla., July 14, 2010 – Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is receiving some much needed assistance with the construction of their green homes in East Stuart, thanks to Miami-based not-for-profit, Educate Tomorrow.

The group of 11 young adults and two adult mentors are volunteering for HFHMC through Friday, July 16, on two home sites located at the 800 block of Tarpon Avenue. The students are transitioning out of the foster system; Educate Tomorrow helps them to bridge the gap into the real world and college through mentorship programs.

“At some time in their life, these kids have been abused, abandoned or neglected,” said Erica French, chief operating officer and program supervisor for Educate Tomorrow. “As foster kids, they can go to any state or technical school for free, but often there’s no one to help them get there. At age 18, they’re out of the foster program, but if they stay in school, they can receive a monthly check to help with living expenses. It’s not easy being on your own, finding an apartment, learning to budget your expenses, and that’s where Educate Tomorrow helps out.”

Educate Tomorrow, Corp. is an international, nonprofit organization with a mission to make education an attainable goal for the most disadvantaged, so that all may be afforded the possibilities that can be achieved through learning. Educate Tomorrow supports 15-23 year olds who are aging out of the foster care system, by matching them with mentors. These mentors in turn help the young people to enroll in college and training programs, find housing and jobs, as well as apply for educational and social assistance that may be available to them.

“We’ve volunteered for Habitat for Humanity of Martin County every year for the past three years,” said French. “We know that camps and retreats are good for the students and makes for a great bonding experience.”

The group is contributing to the construction of HFHMC’s green homes, which will conform to environmentally sensitive standards, meeting gold rating requirements by the Florida Green Building Coalition. The house is expected to be complete in November.

“We’re so grateful to the students and mentors at Educate Tomorrow for volunteering their time to help our community, year after year,” said Margot Graff, HFHMC executive director. “It’s a wonderful partnership and we’re so blessed to have an opportunity to work with such an extraordinary group.”

To learn more about Habitat sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940. For more information about Educate Tomorrow, visit EducateTomorrow.org or call (305) 374-3751.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County
Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, call (772) 223-9940 or visit HabitatMartin.org.

Photo Captions
Educate Tomorrow students Harry Mystery DuVal and David Dixon are spending a week of their summer vacation volunteering for Habitat for Humanity of Martin County.

Educate Tomorrow student Calvin Pierre helps secure a truss while volunteering at one of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s green homes on Tarpon Avenue in Stuart.

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County dedicates new home in Hobe Sound

HOBE SOUND, Fla., July 13, 2010 – Habitat for Humanity of Martin County (HFHMC) celebrated the con-

struction of its 86^th home at a dedication ceremony on June 24 in the Banner Lake community of Hobe Sound. The new homeowners, Gilbert and Alisena Payoute, thanked all those who worked so hard to help them reach this goal.

The Hobe Sound Community Chest sponsored the home construction, and board member Jennifer Ferrari, also executive director of the Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce, presented the Payoute family with the key to their new home. Margot Graff, HFHMC executive director, explained to dedication attendees that the Payoute family had contributed 300 sweat equity hours working on their home and the homes of others as a requirement for becoming Habitat homeowners. At the end of the ceremony, the Payoute family invited supporters inside for a tour of the home and refreshments.

Through the donations of funds, materials and volunteer labor, HFHMC was able to build the home and sell it at an affordable price. The Payoute family purchased the home with a no-profit loan and their monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat homes.

“We are so pleased to present Gilbert and Alisena with the keys to their new home,” said Graff. “We would also like to thank all the volunteers who generously donated their time to help make this house a home, as well as the Hobe Sound Community Chest. This wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community.”

To support an upcoming build or to learn more about Habitat homeownership, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.

Photo caption: Jennifer Ferrari, Hobe Sound Community Chest board member and executive director of the Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce, presents Gilbert Payoute and his son, Marco, with a key to their new home. The Hobe Sound Community Chest sponsored the three-bedroom Habitat for Humanity home in Banner Lake.

Stiltsville

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Stiltsville, located in Biscayne National Park, Miami, Fla. Following Hurricane Andrew, only seven houses remain of what was once a colorful community in the 1960s. There were approximately 27 houses during Stiltsville's prime.

I stayed at the stilt house operated by the Miami Springs Power Boat Club and Stiltsville Optimist Club of Miami. Here is a link to some of the photos from my trip, taken during the annual Ralph Duey Memorial Fishing Tournament, June 2010. Enjoy!

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County dedicates ‘Women Build’ home in Hobe Sound

HOBE SOUND, Fla., June 2, 2010 – A group of women wielding power tools recently made a dream come true for a local woman and her two children.

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County (HFHMC) celebrated the construction of its 83^rd home at a dedication ceremony on May 29 in the Banner Lake community of Hobe Sound. The home is part of Habitat’s ‘Women Build’ program and was constructed by women for a woman.

Gulfstream Business Bank sponsored construction of the 2009-10 Women Build home, located at 8495 Eucalyptus Way in Banner Lake. Amanda Gonzalez and her two children, Amya and Alijah, are the deserving recipients of the home. Gonzalez hosted an open house reception immediately after the dedication to thank those who worked so hard to help her reach this goal. Gonzalez contributed more than 300 sweat equity hours working on her home and the homes of others as a requirement for becoming a Habitat homeowner.

Through the donations of funds, materials and volunteer labor, HFHMC was able to build the home and sell it at an affordable price. Gonzalez purchased the home with a no-profit loan and her monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat homes.

“We are very excited to present Amanda with the keys to her new home. She has worked so hard and is truly a delightful person,” said Graff. “We would also like to thank our Women Build volunteers who generously donated their time to help make this house a home, as well as Gulfstream Business Bank, the Martin County Board of County Commissioners and the Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency.”

To support an upcoming build or to learn more about Habitat homeownership, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.

About Women Build

Women Build is a Habitat for Humanity International program that encourages women and girls to have fun and make a difference by building homes and communities. Women crews around the world have built thousands of homes since Women Build’s official creation in 1998. Each year, hundreds of homes are added as affiliates, donors and sponsors discover the impact of women volunteers and their resources.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.

Photo caption: Margot Graff, Habitat for Humanity of Martin County executive director presents Amanda Gonzalez and her two children, Amya and Alijah with the keys to their new home. The home is part of Habitat’s ‘Women Build’ program and was constructed by “power women with power tools.”

Coasters’ Oyster Roast earns more than $15,000 for Florida Oceanographic Society

STUART, Fla., May 20, 2010 – The Coasters’ Oyster Roast raked in more than $15,000 and 500-plus pounds of oyster shells for Florida Oceanographic Society and the timing couldn’t be more critical.

With the devastating news of a tragic oil spill, unfortunate Lake Okeechobee freshwater releases and the declining health of the Indian River Lagoon, now is the time to educate our community about our treasured coastal ecosystems and what can be done to save them. Florida Oceanographic provides those educational resources at its Coastal Center in Stuart.

The Coasters’ Oyster Roast took place May 15 at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center. More than 300 attendees enjoyed live music and a special performance by singer/songwriter Rachel McGoye, plus raffle prizes, a silent auction and more. The oyster roast menu included more than 1,500 pounds of oysters, shrimp, burgers, salad, cookout favorites, as well as an open bar with beer and wine.

The Coasters, formerly known as the Young Friends of Florida Oceanographic Society, are a dynamic group of young adults, age 21-50, engaged in promoting environmental stewardship of Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

“The Oyster Roast was a great success, generating participation from guests to recycle oyster shells for our oyster restoration projects while they enjoyed fabulous food and entertainment,” said Mark Perry, Florida Oceanographic executive director. “Thank you to all our supporting guests, the sponsors and our deeply committed staff who made this a super event.”

The oyster roast was made possible thanks to New England Fish Market, New Growth Media and Steven Martine Photography.

In addition to raising funds to support Florida Oceanographic’s mission, more than 500 pounds of shucked oysters from the event were collected to restore oyster reefs in the St. Lucie River/Estuary and the Indian River Lagoon. It usually takes two weeks for Florida Oceanographic to collect that amount of oyster shells from local restaurants.

Florida Oceanographic is diligently working to restore the oyster population devastated by freshwater discharges into the river and lagoon. In the last 60 years, the river has lost more than 75 percent of its oyster reef habitat.

The healthy functioning of the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon is intimately tied to the health of their oyster reefs. When healthy, oysters will filter and clean the water; provide food and habitat for more than 300 estuarine species; stabilize and protect shorelines.

Florida Oceanographic is building several artificial reefs in the river and lagoon to provide much needed substrate for oysters to grow. The reefs are made from recycled oyster shell acquired from local restaurants and events like the Coasters’ Oyster Roast. Through the efforts of Florida Oceanographic and dedicated volunteers, more than 800,000 oysters have been restored to the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon.

Visit FloridaOceanographic.org or call (772) 225-0505 to learn more about the Coasters, membership and volunteer opportunities at Florida Oceanographic Society.

About Florida Oceanographic Society

Florida Oceanographic Society’s mission is to inspire environmental stewardship of Florida’s costal ecosystems through education and research. Our teaching and programming is designed to change the generational views of how we care for and preserve our unique environments. To learn more, visit FloridaOceanographic.org or call (772) 225-0505.

Photo caption

The Coasters Oyster Roast committee poses for a photo in front of the game fish lagoon at Florida Oceanographic’s Coastal Center: Tara Biek, Kelly and Justin Beard, Alli Cartwright, Danny Strauss, Stephanie Gray and Crystal France. (Photo credit, Steven Martine)

For Your Health, Summer 2010

Check out the latest edition of For Your Health magazine, written, art directed and edited by New Growth Media.

Click here to read the Summer 2010 issue.

Recovery Rally: May 22

Young adults in Martin County are feeling the effects of the struggling economy and they’re doing something to help.

Local high school and college students from the Martin County Junior Achievement program are hosting a Recovery Rally on May 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Martin County Fairgrounds, 2616 S.E. Dixie Highway in Stuart.

This local business expo will focus on sharing information to help Martin County recover from recession. Among the lineup of guest speakers: county commissioners Doug Smith and Susan Valliere, and Crystal France of the Business Development Board of Martin County. Presentations will address the Martin County economy and employment, foreclosure mediation, real estate values/selling/buying/short sales, credit counseling, small business loans, investing during a recession and more.

The family-friendly Recovery Rally will also feature live music from The Chaise, a hot air balloon, bounce house, water games, activities, giveaways, food and more. Apple Tree Academy will provide supervised daycare so parents can enjoy the presentations.

Local business owners are encouraged set up booths to promote their companies, sell goods and services. There are four ways for businesses to participate at the Recovery Rally event:

• Banner advertisement, FREE
• Vendor booth, $35/members, $75/non-members
• Coupon (if unable to attend event), $35 (must provide coupons)
• Web site advertisement, $40/month

Admission is free. For more information, visit RecoveryRally.org or call (772) 220-3247.

Photo caption: Local high school and college students from the Martin County Junior Achievement program are hosting a Recovery Rally on May 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Martin County Fairgrounds. Admission is free. For more information, visit RecoveryRally.org or call (772) 220-3247.

Habitat to dedicate Women Build home

A group of women wielding power tools are about to make a dream come true for a local woman and her two children.

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County (HFHMC) will celebrate the construction of its 83rd home at a dedication ceremony on Saturday, May 29 at 10 a.m. in the Banner Lake community of Hobe Sound. This home is part of Habitat’s Women Build program and was constructed by women for a woman.

Gulfstream Business Bank sponsored construction of the 2009-10 Women Build home, located at 8495 Eucalyptus Way in Banner Lake. Amanda Gonzalez and her two children, Amya and Alijah, are the deserving recipients of the home. Gonzalez will host an open house reception immediately after the dedication to thank those who worked so hard to help her reach this goal. Gonzalez contributed more than 300 sweat equity hours working on her home and the homes of others as a requirement for becoming a Habitat homeowner.

Through the donations of funds, materials and volunteer labor, HFHMC was able to build the home and sell it at an affordable price. Gonzalez will purchase the home with a no-profit loan and her monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat homes.

“We are very excited to present Amanda with the keys to her new home. She has worked so hard and is truly a delightful person,” said Graff. “We would also like to thank our Women Build volunteers who generously donated their time to help make this house a home, as well as Gulfstream Business Bank, the Martin County Board of County Commissioners and the Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency.”

HFHMC will host an open house Thursday, May 27 from 12 to 6 p.m., welcoming the public to tour the Women Build home.

To RSVP for the open house or dedication event, call (772) 223-9940. To support an upcoming build or to learn more about Habitat homeownership, visit HabitatMartin.org.

About Women Build

Women Build is a Habitat for Humanity International program that encourages women and girls to have fun and make a difference by building homes and communities. Women crews around the world have built thousands of homes since Women Build’s official creation in 1998. Each year, hundreds of homes are added as affiliates, donors and sponsors discover the impact of women volunteers and their resources.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.

Photo caption: Amanda Gonzalez (center) and her two children, Amya and Alijah are the deserving recipients of Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s Women Build home, located in the Banner Lake community of Hobe Sound. An open house is set for May 27, 12 to 6 p.m. and a dedication ceremony will take place May 29 at 10 a.m. To RSVP, call (772) 223-9940.

Coasters Oyster Roast to benefit Florida Oceanographic Society

Check out some of the media coverage for the Coasters' Oyster Roast to benefit Florida Oceano-graphic Society (May 15) sponsored by New Growth Media and Steven Martine Photography:

Stuart News

Luminaries - May 10 cover story

Your News

Hometown News

For the sake of the St. Lucie, keep the riverkeeper

Great column by Eve Samples: For the sake of the St. Lucie, keep the riverkeeper.

It's really unfortunate the state of the St. Lucie Estuary and Indian River Lagoon. I won't be fishing/swimming/boating/paddle-boarding in the river until the Lake Okeechobee discharges stop. There go my Memorial Day weekend plans.

Habitat to host silent auction featuring rare finds from Frances Langford home

STUART, Fla., April 13, 2010 – Frances Langford fans, local history enthusiasts and antique collectors will be delighted by the rare finds and architectural salvage items up for bid during Habitat for Humanity of Martin County’s silent auction, April 16 through May 5.

The silent auction will feature a variety of unique items salvaged from the Rio home of the late singer/actress, Frances Langford. Among the items up for bid: signs from her property and Outrigger Resort, a handcrafted bar decorated with authentic tapa cloth, cypress bar tops, leather director’s chairs embroidered with Langford’s initials, furniture and so much more.

More than 100 items are on display at the Habitat for Humanity of Martin County ReStore, 2555 S.E. Bonita Street in Stuart, two blocks southeast of the corner of Indian Street and Old Dixie Highway. Bids may be placed in person or by phone during operating hours, Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

An auction wrap-up party is set for May 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the ReStore. Bidding will close at 6 p.m. and each item will be awarded to the highest bidder (bidders need not be present to win). All proceeds support Habitat’s mission to eliminate substandard housing in Martin County.

To view a photo gallery of select auction items, visit HabitatMartin.org. To place a bid by phone or for more information, call the ReStore, (772) 223-8991.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, call (772) 223-9940 or visit www.HabitatMartin.org.

Photo caption

Showcasing Langford’s handcrafted tapa cloth bar and accessories from Langford’s Outrigger Resort is Committee Member Louann Smith, Habitat Administrative Assistant Susan MacDonald, Habitat Executive Director Margot Graff, Committee Member Karen Sandler, ReStore Director Bobbi Blodgett and Habitat Director of Resource Development, Mike Readling. Not pictured, Committee Member Mary Louise Wadsworth. For more information, visit www.HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-8991.

Former coaches, players revitalize Stuart Hornets youth football association

STUART, Fla., April 1, 2010 - Youth football is more than a game; it’s a sport that teaches fun- damental life skills.

When former players and coaches learned that the Stuart Hornets youth football program was dwindling financially and the 2010 season might be cancelled, they took a personal interest and decided to get involved – for the kids.

James Davis grew up in Stuart and began playing for the Hornets at an early age. He later went on to play for the Detroit Lions and New York Giants as an outside linebacker from 2003 to 2006.

“I started playing for the Hornets when I was 8 years old – it helped launch my career in the NFL,” said Davis. “Football teaches kids discipline, teamwork and communication. That’s why it is so important that this team succeeds for the kids in Stuart.”

Stephen Leighton, a former Hornet player, echoed that sentiment. “I couldn’t allow something that was so instrumental in my upbringing just slip away,” said Leighton, who lives and owns a small business in Stuart. “It has been a team effort and we plan to bring the Stuart Hornets back to their former glory.”

Part of the Pop Warner Treasure Coast Football Conference, the Stuart Hornets will play teams in Martin, St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties.

“There’s a longstanding interest in this community for Hornet football,” said Jeff Montpetit, recreation supervisor for the City of Stuart Recreation Department. “Everyone is thrilled that we’re going to bring it back, with the exception of opponents in neighboring leagues,” he added with a smile.

As a not-for-profit organization, the Stuart Hornets have been invited to participate in a Giving Day, an event organized by the Martin County Community Foundation. Between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 7, donors may access the Giving Day page on the Martin County Community Foundation’s Web site, www.yourmccf.org, or call 1-877-GIV-MCCF (448-6223). The first $100,000 to be donated through the community foundation toward a specific non-profit will be doubled. This is a unique opportunity for donors to make a gift to the Stuart Hornets that will be matched.

The Stuart Hornets are in need of sponsorships and donations for uniforms, equipment and transportation in order to make this season a success. Football and cheerleading coaches, and various volunteer positions also need to be filled. Call (772) 260-3345 for more information.

“We’re calling upon past players,” said Leighton. “If they ever wanted to give back, now is the time to get involved, for the kids.”

Stuart Hornets football and cheerleading registration for children ages 5 to 12 is available at the 10^th Street Recreation Center, 724 S.E. 10^th Street in Stuart. Call (772) 288-5340 or (772) 260-3345 for more information.

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County dedicates new home in Hobe Sound

HOBE SOUND, Fla., March 25, 2010 – Habitat for Humanity of Martin County (HFHMC) celebrated the con-struction of its 82nd home at a dedication ceremony on March 20 in the Banner Lake community of Hobe Sound. The new homeowner, Gary Woods, thanked all those who worked so hard to help him reach this goal.

After explaining that Woods had contributed 300 sweat equity hours working on his home and the homes of others as a requirement for becoming a Habitat homeowner, Margot Graff, HFHMC executive director, presented Woods with the key to his new home. At the end of the ceremony, Woods invited supporters inside for a tour of the home and a barbecue lunch.

“After living in a rooming house, having my own place is a dream come true,” said Woods. “I’m so happy to be moving into my own home so I can invite my son, grandchildren and extended family to visit on a regular basis.”

Through the donations of funds, materials and volunteer labor, HFHMC was able to build the home and sell it at an affordable price. Woods purchased the home with a no-profit loan and his monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat homes.

In addition to Woods’ sweat equity efforts, he joined the Banner Lake Community Group, an organization focused on neighborhood improvement.

“We are so pleased to present Gary with the keys to his new home. He worked so hard and is truly dedicated to making Banner Lake a great place to live,” said Graff. “We would also like to thank all the volunteers who generously donated their time to help make this house a home, as well as Publix Super Market Charities, the Martin County Board of County Commissioners and the Martin County Community Redevelopment Agency. This wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community.”

HFHMC also thanks Clarence Banks, Nancy Cloud, All Kinds of Clean, and the Summerfield Garden Club for their contributions, as well as cross-country bicyclist riding for Habitat for Humanity, Brian Hochman.

To support an upcoming build or to learn more about Habitat homeownership, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.

About Habitat for Humanity of Martin County

Habitat for Humanity of Martin County is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that extends the opportunity to purchase simple, decent, affordable homes to local families who would not otherwise have that chance. The three key criteria necessary in order to make homeownership a reality for families include the need for shelter, ability to pay, and willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. For more information, visit HabitatMartin.org or call (772) 223-9940.

Photo caption: Habitat board member Charles Lavelle with new homeowner Gary Woods, Habitat board members Mark Sandler (also Habitat Family Selection Committee chair) and Michael Houston, board president, in front of Woods’ new home in the Banner Lake community of Hobe Sound.

Martin County High School students invite President Obama to Stuart, rally to end recession

Some people tell them that they can’t get the President of the United States to speak in Stuart; the reply is a determined “Yes we can!”

More than 2,000 Martin County High School (MCHS) students gathered on the football field March 16 and chanted, “Yes we can!” while filming a video invitation to President Barack Obama, urging him to speak at their Recovery Rally event. They hope he will attend to speak about his Middle Class Task Force and answer economic questions from the community.

The goal of the Recovery Rally event, slated for April 25 pending President Obama’s availability, is to unite the community, local business owners and local government to support one another and end the recession. The students’ objective is that President Obama will serve as guest of honor and keynote speaker, along with presentations from financial experts, local government officials and business owners. In addition to special presentations, the rally will feature a trade show where local businesses can network and showcase their services, entertainment from local bands, food and refreshments.

The students also created a Web site, RecoveryRally.org, dedicated to improving the community and ending the recession. The site will serve as a business directory and job bank, creating a hub for local businesses and the community to communicate and support one another. Online advertising and directory membership sales will fund the maintenance of the site and the MCHS Junior Achievement Program.

“I speak for the entire student body when I say that we are future college students or members of the workforce, wondering if we will benefit from our college education or if we will find jobs,” said Maureen Dolan, president of MCHS class of 2010, during her plea to President Obama. “We want a strong economic community to reside in or in which to come home to. We also want to see the burdens of our parents to be lifted, to see the light in these difficult times.”

Leadership advisor LuAnne Puett has played a key role in motivating the students and providing them with the resources they need to succeed – not only with the Recovery Rally event and Web site, but in life. Puett works closely with economics teacher Susan Fogharty, television production teacher Jeff Younglove and MCHS administrators, who have been extremely supportive of the students’ efforts.

About Recovery Rally

Weary of their parent’s complaints about foreclosures and the dwindling economy, and scared for their economic future, students in Martin County High School economics and leadership classes and the Junior Achievement Program decided to do something about it. Through a Recovery Rally event and RecoveryRally.org, the students hope to unite the community, ignite change and promote economic stability. To learn more, visit RecoveryRally.org.

Library After Hours at Indiantown library a success

The Library After Hours event on March 2 at the Elisabeth Lahti Library in Indiantown proved to be the most successful event in Library Night Owls history.

The event attracted more than 200 attendees from the Indiantown community and throughout Martin County. Entertainment was provided by students at Hope Rural School and Warfield Elementary, along with guest speakers Carol Matthews Rey and Iris Wall. Liquid refreshment was provided by A Picky Gourmet of Jensen Beach.

The Library Night Owls have been hard at work, trying to bring back a piece of the Martin County Library System’s storied history.

“The Story Express,” the library system’s bookmobile, was purchased in 1985 and decommissioned in 2002. Now, a burdened economy and the increasing cost of fuel have created a heightened need for a new bookmobile to service Martin County’s community members unable to come to the library – including stops at local child care centers and eventually nursing homes and community centers.

The Library Night Owls, a sub-committee of The Friends of the Martin County Library System, is led by Justin and Kelly Beard, Tara Biek, Stephen Leighton, Jennifer Salas and Tori Savard with the support of The Friends of the Blake Library. The committee was established in 2009 to help raise money to maintain and operate a new bookmobile, as well as attract new patrons and increase awareness of library programs and resources.

The Library Night Owls organized a “Library After Hours” social networking event series rotating through each of the library system’s six branches. Money raised from the $10 admission charge, which includes two drinks, hors d’ oeuvres and entertainment will go towards the “Bring Back the Story Express Fund.” With the success of the event series, the group has raised nearly $12,000 and recently presented the library system with a used bus to serve as The Story Express until funds can be raised for a new, state-of-the-art bookmobile.

To learn more about how you can support the Library Night Owls' cause and help bring back the Story Express bookmobile, visit library.martin.fl.us or call (772) 283-0019.