👋 Happy Monday!
Welcome to this week’s edition of The Connection!
From a massive $2.1 billion environmental restoration that will transform the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River, to the opening of a new Cuban bakery right here in PSL, there’s plenty of local progress to celebrate. Plus, we’ll share details on upcoming networking events and spotlight New Horizons of the Treasure Coast & Okeechobee, providing vital mental health services across our region.
Nicholas, Michelle, and Danny
Co-Founders, Port St. Lucie Business Club
🐝 What’s Buzzing: Local News
Army Corps begins $2.1 billion Indian River Lagoon restoration project
Work is well underway on the $2.1 billion C23/C24 project, the next major phase of the $5.5 billion Indian River Lagoon–South Restoration effort, part of the larger Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan.
Crews west of Fort Pierce are building two reservoirs and a stormwater treatment area to remove millions of pounds of sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorus before water flows into the lagoon and river each year.
The project will also remove 7.9 million cubic yards of muck from the St. Lucie River, creating 1,300 acres of new habitat for oysters and other aquatic life. “This will make an incredible difference in the health of the St. Lucie estuary,” said John Maehl, Martin County Public Works Environmental Resource Administrator.
Historic Jensen Beach restaurant listed for sale
The iconic Hoffmann Restaurant and Bar in Jensen Beach, known for its German cuisine and riverfront charm, is up for sale for $1.5 million. The two-story, 2,396-square-foot property includes both indoor and outdoor seating and sits on nearly an acre along the river.
Closed since August, the creamy-yellow landmark features mangroves along its waterfront and an upstairs apartment — offering potential buyers a rare piece of Treasure Coast history.
La Rubia Cuban Bakery opens in PSL
There’s a new spot for Cuban coffee and pastries in town! La Rubia Cuban Bakery has opened in the Lakeside Center Plaza (267 SE Port St. Lucie Blvd). Owned by Juan Marrero and William Kicklighter, the bakery serves freshly baked Cuban bread, pastelitos, and sandwiches daily.
The name “La Rubia,” meaning The Blonde in Spanish, remains a family secret — but locals are already raving about the authentic flavors. A grand opening celebration is planned for November.
🗓 Don’t Miss Out: Events
➔ TC Premier Women’s Network – Port St. Lucie
Date & Time: Tuesday, Nov. 4, 11:30 am–1:30 pm
Location: Tutto Fresco, 9501 Reserve Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
Cost: $22 (includes lunch)
Join a dynamic, ladies-only networking luncheon to build business partnerships and grow your referral network. Please bring a door prize with your business card attached. RSVP required.
➔ Connectsphere Social Networking
Date & Time: Thursday, Nov. 6, 6–8 pm
Location: 999 Lounge & Bar, 4245 SE Federal Hwy., Stuart, FL 34997
Cost: Free
Connect with purpose, enjoy raffle prizes, and make meaningful professional connections in a relaxed setting. Bring cash for the 50/50!
➔ Speed Networking
Date & Time: Friday, Nov. 7, 7:30–9 am
Location: The Junction Café, 6666 US-1 N, Port St Lucie, FL 34952
Cost: $10 (includes coffee + continental breakfast)
Join local pros for fast-paced morning networking to get your day started.
These are just some highlights of the networking 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 not responsible for changes, cancellations, or inaccuracies. For the latest updates, please check with the hosting organization.
⚡ The Spotlight: Changemakers
New Horizons of the Treasure Coast & Okeechobee
For over 60 years, New Horizons has been the Treasure Coast’s largest provider of mental health and addiction recovery services. With nine facilities across four counties, they serve over 14,000 children and adults annually, regardless of their ability to pay. From 24/7 crisis stabilization and inpatient psychiatric care, to youth counseling, addiction treatment, and school-based programs, New Horizons is a lifeline for those facing mental illness or substance abuse.
👉 Visit nhtcinc.org to learn more or get involved.
📣 The Marketplace: Local Classifieds
Want to reach 3,200+ local business owners? The Connection offers sponsorship opportunities for businesses ready to connect with Treasure Coast professionals.
Interested? Learn more at pslbusinessclub.com/sponsorships.
🤝 Ready to Get More Connected?
We’d love your feedback on this week’s newsletter. Just hit reply and let us know what you think.
What’s Next?
★ PSLBC’s Rockin’ Holiday Networking Party
Wednesday, November 19th, 6-8 pm
IRSC Pruitt Campus - STEM Center Building
500 NW California Blvd, Port St Lucie, FL 34986
$10 at the door - CASH ONLY
50/50 will benefit the IRSC Promise Program
Complementary appetizers + cash bar
Door prizes welcome and will be announced
First-timers are always welcome!
Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest is back (optional participation)
Brazilian Birthday Bash: A Night of Carnival
Note: This is not an official PSLBC networking event.
Saturday, December 6th, 7-11 pm
Fred Astaire Dance Studios - Port St Lucie
1172 SE Port St Lucie Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
Join us for the Brazilian Birthday Bash—a vibrant Carnival-themed night of samba dancers, fire performances, live music, and social dancing! Celebrate Maygan, Nick & Danny (December birthdays!) while supporting the IRSC Promise Program, giving local students two years of tuition-free college.
Cost to attend this event is $43. All net proceeds will benefit the IRSC Promise Program.
