👋 Happy Monday!
Welcome to this week’s edition of The Connection!
From the long-awaited reopening of Al’s Family Farms after last year’s tornado damage, to Martin County making transit free, to major changes coming for Habitat for Humanity ReStores, there’s plenty happening across the Treasure Coast. We’ve also got three big networking events on deck and an essential nonprofit spotlight on 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast, the 24/7 crisis helpline serving our region.
Nicholas, Michelle, and Danny
Co-Founders, Port St. Lucie Business Club
🐝 What’s Buzzing: Local News
Al’s Family Farms reopens after tornado destruction
A year after tornadoes from Hurricane Milton ripped through St. Lucie County, Al’s Family Farms is officially open again — complete with a taller barn, fresh remodel, and renewed community spirit. Locals packed the iconic red barn this weekend to celebrate the return of one of the last remaining citrus farms in South Florida.
“People look at us as a staple in the community,” said Matthew Schorner. “To see it open again is a relief for everyone.” The reopening marks a major milestone for this beloved third-generation business.
Martin County makes public transit free
Riding the bus in Martin County now costs $0.
Following successful free-fare programs in St. Lucie and Indian River counties, Martin County officially dropped all Marty bus fares after an unanimous commission vote on Nov. 4.
Officials hope eliminating fares will boost ridership, which in turn increases state transit funding. Marty currently operates 5 fixed routes, 14 buses, and 67 stops throughout the county.
Habitat for Humanity to close ReStores in Fort Pierce & PSL
Habitat for Humanity of St. Lucie & Okeechobee will close both of its ReStore thrift shops on Nov. 22 due to declining donations, foot traffic, and revenue.
The closures — which include closeout sales until Nov. 22 — will allow the nonprofit to redirect funds and focus on building and repairing homes for local families in need.
“It’s not an easy decision,” said Executive Director Bob Calhoun, “but it enables us to put resources where they matter most.”
🗓 Don’t Miss Out: Events
➔ Marketing with a Mission (3rd Mondays)
Date & Time: Monday, November 17, 11:45am-12:45pm
Location: Mission Kitchen, 6650 S Federal Hwy Unit 1, PSL
Cost: $20 cash (includes lunch)
Join us for a delicious lunch ($20 at the door) and the featured speaker of the month. Hope to see you there!
➔ PSLBC Rockin’ Holiday Networking Party
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 19, 6-8pm
Location: STEM Center at IRSC Pruitt Campus, 500 NW California Blvd, PSL
Cost: $10 (CASH cover at the door only)
Please bring an unwrapped toy instead of a door prize to donate for kids in need this holiday season (optional). Get festive at our holiday networking event featuring the fun Ugly Sweater Contest (optional participation), free appetizers, a cash bar, a 50/50 benefitting the IRSC Promise Program, and so much more. First-timers and all business types always welcomed.
➔ Speed Networking (3rd Friday)
Date & Time: Friday, November 21, 7:30-9am
Location: The Junction Cafe, 6666 S US Hwy 1, PSL
Cost: $10 (includes breakfast)
Start your Friday with meaningful, fast-paced morning networking. Open to all business professionals.
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
211 Palm Beach / Treasure Coast (Helpline)
When someone on the Treasure Coast is facing a crisis — mental health struggles, suicidal thoughts, domestic abuse, homelessness, financial strain, or overwhelming stress — they can call 2-1-1 for immediate help. Available 24/7, 365 days a year, 211 provides confidential emotional support, crisis de-escalation, and direct referrals to local agencies. Trained specialists ensure no one has to go through life’s hardest moments alone.
👉 Learn more at 211PalmBeach.org
📣 The Marketplace: Local Classifieds
Want to reach 3,200+ 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?
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.
