🟣 PSL Scores a Pro Soccer Team & Tourism Booms

👋 Happy Monday!

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Connection!

Port St. Lucie just made sports history with the announcement of its own United Soccer League franchise and a planned 6,000-seat stadium at Walton & One. Meanwhile, St. Lucie County tourism is up more than 16%, a new rock ’n’ roll venue is coming to Jensen Beach, and local nonprofits are making an impact.

Nicholas, Michelle, and Danny
Co-Founders, Port St. Lucie Business Club

🐝 What’s Buzzing: Local News

St. Lucie County tourism up 16%

Tourism tax revenue jumped more than 16% this year, driven largely by short-term rentals like Airbnbs and RV parks. Officials say the extra revenue is being reinvested into local attractions, from Clover Park to new community projects. Director of Tourism Charlotte Bireley says visitors are drawn to St. Lucie County’s slower pace, local restaurants, and historic downtowns.

RockHouse Live to open in Jensen Beach

A new rock ’n’ roll–focused music venue is set to open in the former Gin Mill Bar & Grill, bringing live national acts, a full restaurant, and the longest bar in Jensen Beach. The project, part of the RockHouse Live chain, will feature indoor and outdoor stages, a “Rock Deck,” and VIP spaces. The team behind the venue says it’s designed for true rock fans, aged 45–65, and aims to open in January with local and national talent.

Port St. Lucie awarded professional soccer franchise

Big news for local sports fans — Port St. Lucie Sports Club has been awarded a United Soccer League (USL) franchise, with plans to launch men’s and women’s teams by 2027. A 6,000-seat stadium will be built within the Walton & One redevelopment project, an $80 million investment requiring no taxpayer funding. Officials say the project will boost jobs, tourism, and city pride. “It’s about bringing people together and energizing our city,” said Mayor Shannon Martin.

🗓 Don’t Miss Out: Events

➔ Marketing with a Mission

Tuesday, Oct. 21, 11:45 am–12:45 pm at Mission Kitchen, PSL. $20 at the door. Enjoy lunch, networking, and the featured monthly speaker.

RSVP to Marketing with a Mission

➔ PSLBC Business Networking Event

Tuesday, Oct. 21, 6–8 pm at Crane Club at Tesoro. $10 at the door (cash only). Dress to impress and enjoy an upscale evening of connections, hors d’oeuvres, and door prizes. RSVP required.

RSVP to the PSLBC Business Networking Event

➔ NetWALKing in Tradition

Saturday, Oct. 25, 7–8:30 am at Panera Bread Parking Lot, Tradition. Free weekly networking walk for business professionals and community members.

Join the NetWALKing Facebook Group

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

CareBag, Inc.

Since 2017, CareBag has been restoring dignity to the homeless across the Treasure Coast by providing mobile showers and hygiene services. Their fleet of mobile units delivers warm showers, toiletries, and clean clothes to those in need — literally bringing hope on wheels. With four shower trailers and hundreds served monthly, CareBag continues to expand its reach from Port St. Lucie to West Palm Beach.

👉 Want to help keep the showers rolling? Volunteer or donate at CareBagFL.org.

📣 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.