Together with
👋 Happy Monday!
Welcome to this week’s edition of The Connection!
Port St. Lucie is stepping up for its residents in a big way — from hosting its first-ever Autism Awareness & Community Resource Event to breaking ground on a new green space initiative that's turning dormant city land into native trails and natural habitats. Meanwhile, a beloved Treasure Coast dining staple is closing its doors after 23 years, serving as a reminder of the very real pressures facing local businesses today. This week's nonprofit spotlight shines on Save the Chimps, a world-renowned sanctuary right in our own backyard near Fort Pierce.
Nicholas, Michelle, and Danny
Co-Founders, Port St. Lucie Business Club
🐝 What’s Buzzing: Local News
PSL to Host First-Ever Autism Awareness & Community Resource Event
The City of Port St. Lucie will hold its first Autism Awareness & Community Resource Event on Saturday, April 18, from 9 AM to noon at the Community Center on SE Airoso Blvd. More than 30 vendors will be on-site offering life-saving information and services, including wearable GPS tracking technologies, water safety education, and specialized programs for families with loved ones on the autism spectrum. The free event is part of the City's broader initiative to better support vulnerable populations and connect families with the tools and experts they need.
City Launches Native Habitat Initiative to Transform Dormant Green Spaces
Port St. Lucie is taking a hands-on approach to its city-owned green spaces, using a 2.4-acre wooded plat in the Whispering Pines community as a pilot for its Naturally PSL program. In March, around 20 city workers and volunteers gathered to plan trail amenities and release beneficial insects — including the air potato beetle and Brazilian pepper thrip — to naturally suppress invasive plants ahead of contractor removal. The effort, guided by a UF/IFAS biological control expert, sets a precedent for low-impact, native-first park development across PSL's growing collection of public land.
Mulligan's Jensen Beach Location Closing After 23 Years
Mulligan's in Jensen Beach served its last meal on Easter Sunday, ending a 23-year run due to what the owner described as unsustainable rent costs. Despite strong business performance, the lease terms made a sale impossible after six months of searching for a buyer. The Vero Beach and Sebastian locations will remain open, and most staff members are being transferred — but the closure is a sobering signal for Treasure Coast business owners navigating rising commercial real estate costs.
🗓 Don’t Miss Out: Events
➔ Marketing with a Mission
Date & Time: Monday, April 6, 11:45 AM–1:00 PM
Location: Mission Kitchen, 6650 S Federal Hwy Unit 1, Port St. Lucie
Cost: $20 cash (includes lunch)
For $20, enjoy lunch while networking with fellow professionals and learning more about the featured nonprofit of the month. Bring a friend, a door prize if you’d like, and an appetite for good food and good deeds.
➔ Martini Network
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 8, 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Sip Tequila, 2210 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart
Cost: $10 cash at the door
A fun, social evening of business networking — bring a door prize for a chance to get your business shouted out over the mic. RSVP required by Monday, April 6 at 5:00 PM.
➔ Coffee with a Grant Writer
Date & Time: Friday, April 10, 9:00–10:00 AM
Location: CSC Training Room, 546 NW University Blvd, Port Saint Lucie
Cost: Free
Whether you're new to grant funding or a seasoned seeker, this monthly session offers expert insights and real answers over a fresh cup of coffee — no RSVP link required, just show up ready to learn.
These are just some highlights of the local events you might want to check out this week.
For all of the events, check out the full calendar at pslbusinessclub.com/calendar.
NOTE: We are not responsible for changes, cancellations, or inaccuracies. For the latest updates, please check with the hosting organization.
Two hours that could change how you run your business.
Money & Marketing Live is a private workshop for Treasure Coast business owners. Danny Velazquez covers the money side. Nicholas Scalice covers the marketing side. You leave with a plan for both.
This workshop will take place on Wednesday, April 29 from 12-2pm at Tutto Fresco, 9501 Reserve Blvd, Port St. Lucie. Lunch included. $47.
Limited seats. First come, first served.
Get your ticket now.
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⚡ The Spotlight: Changemakers
Save the Chimps
Save the Chimps is a world-renowned chimpanzee sanctuary situated on 150 acres in a rural area near Fort Pierce. It is home to over 220 rescued chimps, most of whom were saved from laboratory research, the pet trade, or the entertainment industry. The chimps live in large social groups on twelve island habitats (about 3 acres each) complete with grass, trees, and climbing structures, where they can roam freely and form family bonds in as natural an environment as possible.
Founded in 1997 by Dr. Carole Noon, Save the Chimps provides lifelong exemplary care – nutritious food, veterinary care, enrichment activities, and lots of love – to these intelligent primates who finally have a chance to live like chimps again.
👉 Want to support our chimpanzee friends? Learn more at SaveTheChimps.org.
📣 The Marketplace: Local Classifieds
Want to reach 3,300+ local business owners? The Connection is now offering sponsorships for businesses ready to connect with our engaged community. Interested? Learn more at pslbusinessclub.com/sponsorships.
🤝 Ready to Get More Connected?
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