Volume 11 No.9 Apr. 2016 - Main Street Fort Pierce

Volume 11, No. 9
April, 2016
“After living most of her adult life working in her family’s downtown jewelry store,
83-year-old Rosalie Arnold has followed her heart’s leading by spending her free time
doing what Beanie Backus told her she should be doing at the age of 15 — painting
scenic landscapes.” See story, page 8
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MAIN STREET FOCUS
Fort Pierce
Tell us what you
want tomorrow
to bring.
Stocks | Bonds | Mutual Funds | Insurance | Annuities | CDs
Money Market Funds | Financial Planning| Retirement Plans
UITs | Managed Accounts | Estate Planning
APRIL 2016
Coffee
with the Mayor
WITH THE MAYOR
APRIL 2016
MAIN STREET FOCUS
Become Involved in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce
by Sue Dannahower
Mayor Linda Hudson invites you to
join her for Community News, Special
Announcements, Complementary
Coffee, Orchid Island Juice,
Breakfast Treats, and more!
New Location!
F. Earl Campbell
Vice President/Investments
Fort Pierce Yacht Club
101 North U.S. Highway 1, Suite 120
Fort Pierce, Florida 34950
700 N. Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce
HOSTED BY
J. Jeffrey Cook, AAMS®
Associate Vice President/Investments
Michael L. Dillman
Vice President/Investments
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com
Fort Pierce Yacht Club,
Main Street Fort Pierce,
Orchid Island Juice
Company, and The City
of Fort Pierce. Call Main
Street Fort Pierce for
more information at
772-466-3880.
Sponsored by
I hope you made time last month for
dollars can be found hard at work as Main Street puts on more
the Bev Smith Automotive Group’s Taste
than 30 events each year, most are free to the public. Call me at
of the Sea Seafood & Sandy Shoes Fes-
(772) 466-3880, I’ll sign you up TODAY!
tival. If you attended I’m sure you had a
Would you like to volunteer? We have many positions avail-
great time! There was something for ev-
able both in the office and during our events. You can write for
eryone: food vendors, contests, crafts, and
the Focus magazine, pour beer during Friday Fest or volunteer
even the kid zone. Thanks to Bev Smith Automotive Group.
for the August Reverse Raffle. Whatever it is you enjoy doing
This is the biggest and best festival on the Treasure Coast!
we can always use your help. ❖
Friday, April 15, at 8:00 a.m.
(772) 672-5125 | (888) 767-7570
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Next month, on Wednesday, May 4, 2016, Main Street
Fort Pierce will begin its 28th year as a Main Street organization. Stay tuned for more information on how we will
celebrate our anniversary.
I encourage YOU to become involved in downtown Fort
Pierce by joining Main Street as a member. Your membership
Volume 11, No. 9
Publisher Main Street Fort Pierce Inc.
Editor Joanne Blandford
Advertising Director Main Street Fort Pierce Inc.
2015 – 2016
Officers, Board of Directors & Staff
Graphic Design Susan M. Roberts
Contributing Writers
April 2016
Joanne Blandford, Sue Dannahower,
Pam Gillette, Michael Howard, Mayor Linda Hudson,
Debra Magrann, Anne Satterlee, Holly Theuns,
Doris Tillman
Photography John Culverhouse, Mary Ann Ketcham
Copyright © 2016 Main Street Focus Inc. All rights reserved. Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the
authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Main Street Fort
Pierce. Contents may not be reproduced without prior written permission
of Main Street Fort Pierce Inc., 122 AE Backus Ave., Fort Pierce, FL 34950.
PHONE 772-466-3880 • FAX 772-466-3917 • [email protected].
Sue Dannahower
President
Britt Reynolds
Vice President
Patty Craft
Secretary
Board of Directors
Pat Alley
Eddie Becht
Patti Craft
Dana McSweeney
Doris Tillman
Pam Gillette
Dave Miller
Treasurer
Michelle Miller-Morris
Anne Satterlee
Donna Sizemore
Staff
Manager
Marketing Manager
Mimi Ewan
Finance
Phone: 772.466.3880 • www.mainstreetfortpierce.org
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MAIN STREET FOCUS
APRIL 2016
Calendar
MONTHLY EVENTS
April 1, Friday: Friday Fest — 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.;
Live music by Out on Bail; Main Street Fort Pierce,
466-3880; www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
April 1, Friday: Fort Pierce Jazz & Blues
Society’s Jazz Week Presents: Don Bestor, Jr. &
Friends — 8:00 p.m. at Black Box; Tickets $25;
call 461-4775 for more information or visit www.
sunrisetheatre.com.
April 2, Saturday: Oyster Fest — 10:00 a.m.
to 7:00 p.m.; Veteran’s Memorial Park; www.
ftpierceoysterfest.org.
at the door; call 461-4775 for more information or
visit www.sunrisetheatre.com.
April 22, Friday: Tinsley Ellis — 8:00 p.m. at
Black Box; Tickets $20/$25 day of the show;
call 461-4775 for more information or visit www.
sunrisetheatre.com.
April 23, Saturday: One Night of Queen — 12 to
8 p.m.; Tickets $45/$39; call 461-4775 for more
information or visit www.sunrisetheatre.com.
April 23, Saturday: Sailfish Brewing Company
3rd Anniversary Block Party — 12 to 8:30
p.m.; 407 N. 2nd Street, Fort Pierce; www.
facebook.com/SailfishBrewingCompany.
April 4, Monday: The Cake Lady’s 1st Monday
Girl’s Night Out — Learn cupcake decorating
techniques. Materials included, as is wine and appetizers. Register in advance. $35 per person, all
inclusive; 242-8128.
Tuesdays: Jazz Jam at the Sunrise Black Box
Theatre — 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.; 460-5299.
April 10, Thursday: The Big Band Years — 7:00
p.m.; Tickets $59/$49; call 461-4775 for more
information or visit www.sunrisetheatre.com.
Wednesdays: Wednesday Green Market — Rain
or Shine 12:00 – 6:00 p.m., Downtown Marina
Square; 971-8480.
April 13, Wednesday: Art Walk — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.,
Art Mundo Open Studio at 111 Orange Avenue,
766-0021, www.artmundo.org.
Saturdays: The Jazz Market — 8:00 a.m. to 1:00
p.m.; north side of the Downtown Fort Pierce
Library; Jazz & Blues Society, 460-5299, www.
jazzsociety.org.
April 15, Friday: Coffee With the Mayor
— 8:00 a.m. at Fort Pierce Yacht Club;
sponsored by and music by BlueBird
Education Foundation. Neighborhood Gems
awarded; Main Street Fort Pierce, 466-3880;
www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
April 16, Saturday: A Concert Tribute to the Music
of Paul McCartney: McCartney Mania Up Close &
Personal — 7:30 p.m. at Black Box; Tickets $40/$45
WEEKLY EVENTS
Saturdays: Ft. Pierce Farmer’s Market — 8:00 a.m.
to Noon; Marina Square on Melody Lane; Market
Manager, 940-1145.
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
A.E. Backus Museum
772-465-0630
www.backusmuseum.com
APRIL 2016
MAIN STREET FOCUS
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Sunrise Theatre Performances
by Sue Dannahower
Art Mundo
772-466-1010 • www.artmundo.org
Downtown Fort Pierce Library
772-462-2787
www.st-lucie.lib.fl.us
Fort Pierce Jazz & Blues Society
772-460-5299
www.jazzsociety.org
Fort Pierce Police Athletic League
772-370-6162
www.fortpiercepal.com
Volunteers needed: 772-466-0606
Fort Pierce RiverWalk Center
772-489-6473
www.cityoffortpierce.com
Heathcote Botanical Gardens
772-464-4672
www.heathcotebotanicalgardens.org
Manatee Observation & Education Center
772-429-6266
www.manateecenter.com
St. Lucie County Aquarium
772-462-3474
www.stlucieco.gov/marine_center
St. Lucie County Regional History Center
772-462-1795
www.stlucieco.gov/history
Sunrise Theatre
772461-4775
www.sunrisetheatre.com
Sunrise Theatre’s Black Box
772-461-4775
www.sunrisetheatre.com
The 1923 Historic Sunrise Theatre has great performances
coming up in April. Here’s the rundown.
Broadway: The Big
Band Years
Sunday, April 10 at
7:00 p.m.
Featuring Hits from:
Gypsy, 42nd Street,
Damn Yankees, Kiss
Me Kate, Guys and
Dolls, Annie Get Your
Gun, West Side Story
and On The Town! The
Great White Way was
a magnificent platform
for a number of hit songs during the Big Band Era. Popularized
by stars of radio and television, these standards included: “The
Lady is a Tramp,” “My Funny Valentine,” “Luck Be a Lady,”
“I Got Rhythm,” and “I Get a Kick Out of You,” and became
part of the Great American Songbook.
A Concert Tribute of the Music of Paul McCartney
Saturday, April 16 at 7:30 p.m. – Black Box
McCartney Mania has toured concert and festival venues
throughout south Florida. Their act honors a sample of the vast
catalog of works of perhaps the greatest composer/artist who
ever lived. From the humble beginnings of the Quarrymen in
Liverpool, to the whirlwind of Beatlemania, to Wings, full orchestral works, and a continuing energetic solo career, Sir Paul
McCartney has reigned as a dominant force in popular music
for over 40 years. This is a special performance in the intimate
setting of the Sunrise Black Box, with a unique program with
new surprises!
One Night of Queen
Saturday, April 23 at 8:00 p.m.
Great Britain’s most explosive rock ‘n’ roll tribute show,
One Night of Queen, makes
its annual appearance at the
Sunrise Theatre! Scottish vocalist Gary Mullen is a legend
in his homeland for his uncanny ability to channel the
late, great Queen front man
Freddie Mercury. One Night
of Queen stars Gary and his
band, The Works, and it’s a high-energy, fully-realized Queen
concert, featuring state-of-the-art lights, effects and, of course,
those classic songs: Bohemian Rhapsody, We Are the Champions, Another One Bites the Dust and We Will Rock You,
among many others!
To purchase tickets call the Sunrise Theatre box office at
(772) 461-4775 or go online to www.sunrisetheatre.com. ❖
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MAIN STREET FOCUS
APRIL 2016
Why are America’s Main Streets Important?
Independent We Stand – America’s Main Street Contest
There are many deserving local organizations that are working to help improve Main Streets and many of those are affiliated with Main Street America™. Main Street America is
a program of the nonprofit National Main Street Center, a
subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
“Over $61 billion has been reinvested into America’s Main
Streets since 1980, which in turn helped create 120,510 new
businesses and rehabilitated 251,838 buildings.” Source: Main
Street America.
Independent We Stand is all about independently owned
businesses across the country reaching out to their communities and educating their neighbors about the many benefits of
“buying local.”
You can support the cause and help revive the local economy
by shopping at your friends’ and neighbors’ local stores. Buy
their products. Eat their food. Use their services. In turn, these
locally owned and operated businesses will continually pump
your hard-earned dollars back into the local economy by way
of taxes, payrolls and purchases.
This means more money for roads, schools, services and new
jobs in your community.
✽ Small businesses employ 77 million Americans.
✽ 89% of consumers agree that independent businesses
contribute positively to local economies.
✽ Residential neighborhoods served by a successful independent business district gained, on average, 50% more
in home values than their citywide markets.
✽ Independent retailers return more than three times as
much money per dollar of sales than chain competitors. Independent restaurants return more than two
MAIN STREET FOCUS
Vote for Fort Pierce!
America’s Main Street Contest
Why are America’s Main Streets important?
Independent We Stand recognizes all socially responsible businesses, both large and small. The movement focuses on helping
the little guys not just survive, but thrive…and all the while
helping them to contribute to their community.
Small business owners think money spent in your community should largely stay there, not always go home with strangers who hail from heaven knows where. ❖
Did You Know?
✽ Small businesses accounted for 65% of all net new jobs
over the past 17 years.
APRIL 2016
times as much money per dollar of sales than national
restaurant chains.
✽ If independent businesses regained their 1990 market
shares, it would create 200,000 new small businesses,
generate nearly $300 billion in revenues and employ
more than 1.6 million American workers.
✽ If just half the U.S. employed population spent
$50 each month in locally owned independent
businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.
✽ For every square foot a local firm occupies, the local
economy gains $179 vs. $105 for a chain store. ❖
Main Streets are really the heartbeat of America’s cities and towns. They play an important part
in the long-term success of communities and really help build a sense of place.
When Main Streets are strong, so are the communities that surround them.
The goal of the America’s Main Streets contest is to help promote the importance and strong
economic benefits of these Main Streets and the small businesses that help them thrive.
The winning Main Street will receive $25,000 in cash and related prizes to help
revitalize that Main Street.
Main Street Fort Pierce has been nominated for America’s Main Street and now we need you!
VOTE TODAY … and every day until April 24, 2016!
Here is how you vote:
Go to www.IndependentWeStand.org, go to Help Make a Main Street Better slide and then
click on the America Main Street button that says Click Here.
You can vote once every 24 hours! ❖
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Local Octogenarian, Rosalie Arnold, Fulfills Lifelong Vocation of Painting
by Debra Magrann
After living most of her adult
who was known for sharing his love
life working in her family’s
of painting with many local youth.
downtown jewelry store, 83-year-
Rosalie may be the last one to enter
old Rosalie Arnold has followed
the throng of “Beanie Brats,” but as
her heart’s leading by spending
one of his protégées in the 1950s,
her free time doing what Beanie
she was honored by Backus’ recog-
Backus told her she should be
nition of her innate talent.
doing at the age of 15 — painting
“He held sessions at his home
scenic landscapes. With brush in
over on Taylor Creek. I’d go on the
hand, she has completed images in acrylic on canvas for all
weekends and in the afternoons after school when I wasn’t
her children and grandchildren.
working at the jewelry store for my parents,” she says. “Beanie
In her senior year of high school at St. Anastasia (in 1949–
1950), Rosalie Noelke painted with A. E. “Beanie” Backus,
had me painting in oils but I also did a lot of pen and ink
drawings. That was when he saw I really could draw quite
well and he set up a job for me in the
learned of her skills and she began
commercial art department at Bur-
accepting commissions.
dine’s in Miami. I had an art scholar-
Working from photographs, Ro-
ship at the all-women’s Barry College
salie’s style is fluid and colorful. She
and Beanie also wanted me to attend
paints early in the mornings when her
art school in New York,” she adds.
hands don’t shake quite as much. Her
But it was not to be for young
subjects are mostly local groves and
Rosalie; her parents did not want her living so far away from
landscapes in the style of Bean Backus, but she has recently
home, especially in New York City. So she did what most
added sea turtles. She has transformed family photos of
young ladies did: she got married and raised four children.
homes as well as a few portraits.
Painting lured her in last year (at age 82) when she asked
“When my easel is empty, I get upset,” she says.
her children what they wanted for Christmas. She has a
Rosalie Arnold’s paintings can be viewed at Sweet’s Jewel-
busy schedule, working six days a week at Sweet’s Jewel-
ers at 209 Avenue A in historic, downtown Fort Pierce. She is
ers. The business has been in her family since 1943. As her
available most mornings at the store, every day except Sunday.
paintings became more numerous, customers at the store
Contact her at 772.461-4686. ❖
Come see our new Spring styles
The Unique Chic Boutique That Everyone Can Afford!
Present this ad for
20% OFF
any one clothing item
(Excludes sale items — cannot be
combined with other discounts)
521 North Second Street • Located 2 blocks South of Seaway Drive
in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce • Open 10 am to 4 pm Mon – Sat
772-882-4397
Whimsy Fort Pierce
Proud supporter of
Main Street Fort Pierce
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MAIN STREET FOCUS
APRIL 2016
APRIL 2016
MAIN STREET FOCUS
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17th Annual Taste of St. Lucie – April 13th
Big Brothers Big Sisters presents the 17th Annual Big Broth-
one fabulous, sunset venue at one tiny price? With live music, a
ers Big Sisters Taste of St. Lucie proudly brought to you by Trea-
deejay on-site, and wonderful samples ranging from Asian Won-
sure Coast Lexus and Lexus of Palm Beach. The event will be
ton Tacos to melt in your mouth Mac & Cheese to gourmet cup-
held Wednesday, April 13, 2016 from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. This year
cakes, you can’t go wrong! The cost is just $40 per person and $70
the event is returning to the Veterans Memorial Park on Indian
a couple and that includes beer, wine and water all night long. We
River Drive in Fort Pierce. Imagine being able to sample over 30
are adding new vendors every day, so check the Taste of St. Lucie
of your all-time favorite restaurants, caterers, and food vendors in
page at www.bbbsbigs.org to find out which vendors will be joining us this year! Each of our community minded vendors donates
Cobb’s Landing, 2015 People’s Choice
Culinard/Virginia College, 2015 People’s Choice
cess and a community favorite. This is truly a party with a purpose
it’s actually a lot of fun. You and your Little can share the kinds
to join us! By volunteering just a few hours a month, helping
as all proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters, one of our area’s
of activities you already like to do such as: playing sports to-
at events or using your professional expertise as a Volunteer
premier mentoring programs.
gether, going on a hike, reading books, eating a pizza with extra
Corp member, hosting a home party or making a one time or
Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is one of the most enjoyable
anchovies or just giving some advice and inspiration. Whatever
monthly donation, you can start something amazing. Think
things you’ll ever do. Not to mention, one of the most fulfill-
it is you enjoy, odds are you’ll enjoy them even more with your
of the possibilities, what will you start? For more information
ing. You have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for
Little and you’ll be making a life-changing impact.
about Big Brothers Big Sisters or Taste of St. Lucie tickets,
100% of their food and beverages to make this event a huge suc-
St. Lucie Draft House, 2015 People’s Choice
the better by empowering them to achieve. And the best part is,
Big Brothers Big Sisters is changing lives and we invite you
visit us online at www.bbbsbigs.org or call 772-466-8535. ❖
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APRIL 2016
APRIL 2016
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Peacock Clay Collaborative Spreads its Wings and Lands on Second Street
by Debra Magrann
In their effort to have a brick-and-mortar retail shop, the Peacock
Clay Collaborative has found a new home at 203 N. Second Street
in historic, downtown Fort Pierce. The former location of Beads ‘n
Baubles owned by longtime retailer, Susan Barette, became vacant
when she decided to retire. Their April 1 launch marks the second
milestone of growth since its inception last September.
“We will have plenty of room to expand and we have very good neighbors on the block,” Ginny
Piech Street commented.
The founding members are accomplished artists in their own right and are making a mark as an
anchor for other creative businesses to be established in this new era of a more modernized downtown.
Bridget Abernethy, Vicky Beck, Martha Cross, Eileen DiTullio and Ginny Piech Street make up an
eclectic mix, known as the “Mud Sistahs,” who include a local philanthropist, a former student and
certified art therapist, two art educators, and a Treasure Coast art icon.
Already successful at their last location in The One Eleven Building, most of the artists sprang
from Art Mundo, Center for Creative Expression, of which Piech Street was a founder; Cross and
DiTullio were founding members and the first to open a clay studio in the underground. Now with
its own storefront, the possibilities are wide open.
“We want to be known as a resource for everything clay including fine art clay retail items,”
Piech Street added.
Sharing their energy, the co-owners welcome those seeking studio space as well as novices. Their
business model is entrepreneurial in nature as they offer a wide selection of experiences and opportunities to work in many forms of clay medium: hand building (pinching and coiling) and slab
construction, sculpting techniques, glazing (bisque), firing, and wheel throwing.
Their Open Studio member access gives artists a chance to share from their own education and experiences while working independently. Since it is non-instructional studio time, artists can work at their
own pace. PCC equipment includes two slab rollers — one that’s a real work horse, a kiln, a clay extruder, five wheels, work tables, a wet cabinet, drying racks and oodles of tools. They also have an extensive
media area with videos and books that cover every topic imaginable in the plastic arts.
The Clay Explorations class offers a no-error approach to learning. “There are no mistakes. There are
no rules. The process of creating art is what really matters,” said Piech Street. They bring in a
guest artist each month, each with a dynamic approach to their craft.
Knowing the reputation this group has for fun, this location will be a center to exchange
ideas, make and buy art and fill the space with a lively energy.
All classes require pre-registration. Stop in during open hours to sign up or register online. For
the class schedule and to receive updates, join their mailing list by sending an e-mail to [email protected] and type “mailing list” in the subject line. Like them on Facebook, find them
online at http://www.peacockclay.com/ or contact them at [email protected]. ❖
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New Dining Experience Coming to Downtown Fort Pierce
by Joanne Blandford
A new restaurant offering fine
dining will soon occupy a prime
corner location in downtown Fort
Pierce. T.J. Manrique and his wife
Jessica recently bought the restaurant formally known as Rinelli’s
Yellow Tail. They have big plans
for its renovation and reopening as
the Orange Bloom Fine Dining
restaurant.
The Manriques are originally from Venezuela. T.J. earned a
B.S. degree in Biochemistry from UCLA and a M.S. degree in
Pharmacology from the University of the Pacific in Stockton,
CA, and has extensive experience in the disposable medical
products field. Jessica is a computer tech and has experience
with cosmetology. Both have owned their own businesses in
Venezuela. They first came to Fort
Pierce three years ago to help settle their daughter at IRSC where
she is studying graphic design.
“We absolutely loved Fort Pierce;
a small town, no traffic, a terrific
downtown, friendly people and
unbeatable sunrises and sunsets.
My wife has loved the sea views
from the marina with a passion since the first time she saw
them three years ago,” says T.J. After eating breakfast at a
downtown bakery, T.J. fell in love with the area and researched
what type of cuisines and dining experiences were lacking in
downtown Fort Pierce. He soon discovered that no one offered
fine dining and the idea for the Orange Bloom Fine Dining
restaurant was born.
Jessica and T.J. have always enjoyed serving great food and
entertaining. Thanks to an extensive interest in fine California wines, T.J. plans on offering an upscale collection of fine
wines at the Orange Bloom. “I had a lovely experience in the
fantastic area of Napa and Sonoma. It was my first experience
of going to working wineries and doing vertical tastings in the
wineries and horizontal tastings in the local restaurants and
B&B’s…It was there that I learned that sommeliers are highly
technically trained professionals, very knowledgeable of the
wines, the process, the areas, but usually have a scope to their
knowledge limited to the area where they live. Thus, California
sommeliers were California specialists and so on. My interest
was stimulated greatly by several kind and generous people that
shared their vast knowledge and passion for wine and wine and
food pairing with me,” said T.J. In addition to fine wines, the
Orange Bloom will offer a full bar and an espresso bar. A professional chef will be hired soon. In addition to overseeing the
kitchen, the chef will help create a new menu based on the
popularity of a variety of specials that will be offered throughout the summer. Steak, seafood, and Venezuelan cultural dishes
are just a few of the selections that the Orange Bloom will
specialize in.
The atmosphere of the Orange Bloom will be transformed
in a series of dining room renovations and through the use of
soft tropical colors and local art. The kitchen area will also be
renovated to better facilitate the food service. Live entertainment is planned for Friday and Saturday evenings. Dog-friendly patio dining will be available as well.
The Orange Bloom Fine Dining is an exciting change to
a prominent location, on the northwest corner of 2nd Street
and Orange Avenue, in downtown Fort Pierce. In fact, the
location inspired the restaurant’s name. “The Orange Blossom is the State of Florida’s official flower and we felt it would
show our respect to use that as a name…however, we are on
the corner of 2nd Street and Orange Avenue, so we felt we
would bloom on Orange Avenue,” states T.J. Even though
the cuisine will be fine dining, T.J. and Jessica envision their
restaurant as a place of casual elegance; one where the patrons
dine on fine food in Bermuda shorts, polo shirts or in their
theatre attire.
Watch for the grand opening of Orange Bloom Fine Dining scheduled for early April 2016. Phone: (772) 466-5474; email: [email protected]. Weekday hours:
lunch 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; dinner 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Weekend hours: breakfast 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; lunch
11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; dinner 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunrise Theatre show nights: open until 10:30 p.m. ❖
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750,000 Crayons…and Counting
“Wax Menagerie” – A.E. Backus Museum’s Feature Exhibit
“Through The Eye Of The Camera” Annual Juried Photography Show
To most adults, the
sight and smell of crayons bring memories of
childhood. The twist in
the nostalgic road is the
creation of a new object
from a medium in which
it was not intended. At
the A.E. Backus Museum’s Season Feature Exhibit “Wax Menagerie”
you’ll be overwhelmed by the color, scale and unique scent of
crayons. And there will be at least 750,000 crayons here!
“Wax Menagerie,” opening March 17th, features Herb
Williams, Nashville artist, who has been creating sculptures
on a grand scale — how grand? Well, he has a Crayola account! His sculptures have appeared in many public arenas
such as children’s hospitals, corporate lobbies, museum walls
and the White House collection, and recently concluded a
four-month exhibit in Shanghai, China, where over 50 of
his works were shown. His crayon works hold records with
Ripley’s and Guinness and has received press and acclaim from
places around the world; China, Australia, Germany just to
name a few. His sculptures were featured at an Inaugural art
exhibit in Washington, D.C. and he recently opened “Plunderland” a walk-in room installation consisting of nearly
500,000 crayons at a
gallery in Chelsea. There
is a large-scale outdoor
installation at the National Ranching Heritage Center in Lubbock,
Texas, which dealt with
wildfire devastation and
raised awareness for education, safety and future planning.
His sculptures require thousands and thousands of crayons. Each color is ordered individually packed, 3,000 to a
case and then the sticks are cut down to lengths needed. He
then bonds the paper of the crayon — not the wax — to a
form that has been carved or cast, completely enveloping
the form.
Herb’s interest lays in identifying iconic objects that society
perceives to fit on role and reintroduces them in different ways.
Intriguing questions arise when an object associated with childhood, such as the crayon, is used to address adult matters such
as religion, sexuality and social hierarchy. The sculptures are
childlike in their curious approach to the object as an icon, but
beguiling and satisfying in the use of pure color as form. Herb’s
intent is to seriously create art that looks at itself not seriously.
Looking at “Swimville,” for example, something everyone is
familiar with — the latest swimsuit edition of Sports Illustrated
— there are well over 125,000 crayons making up a magazine
cover — and that iconic cover can now be looked at in more
ways than a simple cover of a publication.
There are dogs created with double entendre in mind. The
big dog covered in houndstooth check, a giant pink “Juicy
Couture” kitty, a TV with a test pattern, rabbits and guitars
and cow skulls with horns — oh my!
In a way, Herb’s art and Backus create a circle — Edwin
Binney, inventor of the Crayola Crayon was from Fort Pierce,
and also a patron of A.E. Backus. What better venue for this
art could there be? The show is generously sponsored by Jack
and Sally Chapman, Sally being the great grand-daughter of
Edwin Binney.
Additionally, Herb Williams is promoting his graffiti paintings, some of which will also be on exhibit and being planned
for a major street art event in Nashville for the summer of
2016. He will create one of his graffiti
works on the North
wall of the Museum
during the day Friday
and Saturday, March
18th and 19th. Bring
a picnic and watch the
artist create! Graffiti
on the Backus wall! Whou’da thunk it! “Wax Menagerie” will
be on exhibit March 17th through May 5th with the opening
reception on Friday, March 18th.
Call to photographers! The much-anticipated “Through The
Eye Of The Camera” juried photography show is also around
the corner. Sponsored by Oculina Bank and Jiffy Photo and
Frame, this show receives hundreds of entries from all over the
state. It is open to all photographers and offers a number of
categories, so there’s something for everyone. Cash prizes will
be awarded as well as the much-coveted Director’s Award which
is an honor as well as a monetary prize.
There are categories for Digital, covering the Great Outdoors,
Wildlife and Animals and Plants; another for Digital with
Scenery, Structures, Cars, Boats etc; Digital — Color Still Life/
Portrait; Digital Black and White — any Subject; Manipulated
Imagery — Digital and Film; Film — Color and B/W,
Continued on page 18 …
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Chaney’s House O’ Flowers Under New Ownership
CRAYONS … continued from page 17
Traditional Raw Photography — any Subject. The entry form
and prospectus can be found at backusmuseum.com.
Entries vary from a lucky shot with a cell phone to wellplanned scenarios. There are always three knowledgeable jurors
who look at all the important aspects of photography when
selecting from entries.
Judges look for sharp focus, thoughtful composition, interesting or unusual subject matter presented well, photos with
extraordinary lighting, or a shot that just begs you to look at it.
Award winners such as “Can We Talk” by Susan Pantuso, “Pollinate” by Helen Aponte or the beautiful vista seen in “Drama
Skies” by Sarah Lesinski are pictures worth a thousand words.
Judges are also looking at presentation. Presentation doesn’t
just mean your photo is in a frame that’s not scratched and
damaged — it means it’s in a frame that enhances it and can
APRIL 2016
be hung properly (information about that is spelled out on the
prospectus). It also means that the glass is clean inside and out,
that mats aren’t crooked, faded or poorly cut. The tiny insect
trapped under the glass nor the one hair stuck on the mat won’t
slide by, either. All in all, the manner the photo is presented in
enhances it in every way possible.
Entries may be brought to the Museum between 10 a.m. and
3 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, and Sunday, Noon to 3
p.m. April 20th through May 6th. Please note that this year no
entries will be accepted after Friday May 6, 3 p.m. The fee is
$25 per entry, and there is no limit on entries.
The show will open May 12th and be on exhibit till June
17th with the opening reception on Friday, May 20th.
Contact the Backus Museum for information a backusmuseum.com or 772-465-0630. ❖
by Pam Gillette
In January 2016, Bob Swisher
and Dick Lystra sold Chaney’s
House O’ Flowers on 2nd Street
in Downtown Fort Pierce to
Gokhan Pakakin. Gokhan joined
the Chaney’s team back in July
2015 and is very excited to take
over the very established business
while providing the same superior
design and fresh flowers Chaney’s
is known for.
Mr. Pakalin and his wife Larisa moved to the Fort Pierce
area from Istanbul, Turkey, where Gokhan was a professional
soccer player on Turkey’s national team. He is also a certified physical fitness trainer and looks forward to organizing a
young people’s soccer team in Fort Pierce as well as continuing the traditions of quality and respect of the 80-year-old
downtown business.
Dick Lystra, says “Gokhan’s has expressed a fascination with
the process by which individual flowers become a beautiful arrangement and we are happy that he is carrying on the business.”
Chaney’s House O’ Flowers is a floral and gift shop providing you with full service floral delivery, the highest level of
customer service, and superb quality. Their talented design, experts in the art of expression, will remain the same. Customers
can expect the same quality of professionalism and talent for
all of life’s celebrations and occasions whether for anniversaries,
birthdays, weddings, expressions of sympathy, and more. They
also offer many other gift options including green plants, balloons bouquets, specialty vases, plush animals, gourmet and
fruit baskets.
Make Chaney’s House O’ Flowers your first choice for fresh
flowers and gifts in Fort Pierce.
Chaney’s House O’ Flowers is located at 139 N. Second
Street, in Historic downtown Fort Pierce. Phone: 772-4614100 website: http://www.chaneysflorist.com. ❖
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Love, Jazz Community: An Open Letter to Our Supporters
by Don Bestor
Some people celebrate birthdays with great gusto, and oth-
Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society has always relied on indi-
Black Box every Tuesday evening. These talented young people
When I was twenty, I felt like I had a lifetime to enjoy making
ers try to pretend another year hasn’t passed, as though deny-
viduals who love music. Some of its sponsors provide funding
need and receive support and encouragement especially if they
music, and I took for granted some of the special people in my
ing those 365 sunrises and sunsets will stop the hands of time.
for full scholarships, and others support the scholarship pro-
happen to be nervous or suffer from a bit of stage fright. How
life. Maybe we all did. Now that I’m older and wiser and know
As the Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society celebrates its 20th
gram by putting money into the donation bucket and paying
do we know that? Because Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Soci-
that time isn’t a limitless resource, I appreciate so much more
birthday this year, I’ve been thinking a lot about time, history,
for the admission price every week at Jazz Jam. Either way,
ety is fortunate to have the kindest, most supportive audiences
every moment we get to spend together, and I’m more com-
and legacy. I’ve come to the conclusion that all of us involved
these sponsors have helped transform lives through music and
around. Every year we are increasingly proud of the people who
mitted than ever to helping others. Twenty years of working
with the Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society have a whole lot
provided opportunities for students to learn, hone, and master
have quietly helped make our Society so special and supportive
together to help encourage jazz and blues in the community
to celebrate.
a craft that brings joy and inspiration to themselves and others.
while keeping jazz and blues alive in our community.
and in the lives of the next generation is truly an accomplish-
For the past twenty years, the Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues
What an awesome legacy that is! All of us involved with the
If you’ve always shared and donated to our scholarship
ment worth celebrating, so when we light the candles and sing
Society has provided more than $125,000 in scholarships to
day-to-day operation of Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society
funds, we thank you so very genuinely and wholeheartedly. If
Happy Birthday to Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society this
over 120 promising young musicians. Please don’t think we’re
are extremely grateful for that kind of generosity and support.
you’ve never donated before, please consider making a special
year, I hope you’ll join me in a silent prayer of gratitude for the
tooting our own horn here (you knew there would be a pun,
The Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society scholarship appli-
scholarship donation this year for yourself, for the memory of
many kind souls who have helped make our organization so
didn’t you?) because all of these scholarship funds were because
cations are coming in this month, and soon, patrons will have
a loved one, or simply for the support of this truly American
special and life-changing. On behalf of all of us at Fort Pierce
of you, our supporters. While many organizations rely on busi-
a chance to hear the talented young musicians who are vying
art form. I started out this letter by telling you that I’ve been
Jazz and Blues Society, happy birthday, and thank you for be-
ness donations or institutional grants to fund such items, the
for scholarships while performing with the pros on stage at the
thinking a lot about time and celebration lately, and it’s true.
ing part of our legacy.
❖
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Core Value
Ithuba Shrimp Farm – Sensational Shrimp Locally Grown
by Kristen M. Barchers
by Eric Seibenick
You’ve probably heard a lot lately about the importance of
strengthening your core, but what’s so important about it? And
what exactly is your core anyway? Your core muscles include
your abdominal, lower back, hip and pelvis muscles and work
together to facilitate the movement of your body. They play a
key role in everyday activities like walking, twisting and bending, as well as athletic activities. Not only does a strong core
Ithuba Shrimp Farm in
Fellsmere brings all natural
and fresh, locally raised Pacific
White Shrimp to the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market every Saturday.
Founded in 2014 by Leslie
Knoesen, a native of the kingdom of the Zulu in South Africa, the company uses no chemicals or antibiotics in a natural
eco environment. Their mission is to
provide all natural, fresh, not frozen
shrimp to local consumers.
The Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market is the top rated market
in the Florida and a perfect location
for fresh seafood, so naturally it was
chosen in 2015 to showcase Ithuba
Shrimp Farm. The appeal of locally
grown shrimp, fresh farm to table
versus frozen imported shrimp from the East is exactly what
is so important to Ithuba Shrimp Farm. Their customers are
people who appreciate quality and freshness of product grown
locally and support their communities on the Treasure Coast.
Ithuba Shrimp Farm is a family operated farm in Fellsmere,
just north and west of Fort Pierce. Leslie has an engineering
by Sue Dannahower
Mushrooms
look good, but it helps support your spine and allows for good
balance, stability and coordination during physical activity.
Core strength can also improve circulation, digestion and immune system function by increasing blood flow and general
muscle tone in the abdomen where our vital organs are housed.
Core strength is particularly important in maintaining functional fitness as we age. A strong core aids in overall mobility
and reduces the risk of falling. Getting started on building a
stronger core may seem like a daunting task, especially if it’s
one you’ve never paid much attention to before. Luckily a core
strengthening routine doesn’t have to be complicated or take a
lot of time. In fact, doing just one exercise regularly can make a
big difference in your core strength. Planks engage almost all of
the core muscles and improve overall functional fitness as well
as working the arms and legs and fighting osteoporosis. Adding
this five minute exercise into your daily routine can go a long
way in improving your overall fitness.
Hold the plank position for as long as you can and repeat
for a total of three planks. Try to increase the length of time
you can hold them. There are many variations of the plank
that provide added challenge as you build strength, including
alternating arm and leg lifts and side planks. ❖
Mushrooms grow low to the ground and tend to still
be a bit dirty. The key to great-tasting mushrooms is
to buy them fresh and clean them without letting them
get waterlogged.
Selecting and Storing Mushrooms
Mushrooms are fresh if they are firm, plump, and free
from bruises with no visible moisture on the outside.
For white mushrooms, also called button mushrooms,
the gills on the underside should be tightly closed.
Store mushrooms unwashed in the refrigerator for up
to two days in a paper bag or the original packaging.
Because they need to breathe, mushrooms shouldn’t be
stored in a plastic bag.
How to Clean Mushrooms
Use a damp paper towel or a soft mushroom brush
to wipe each mushroom to remove dirt. You can lightly
rinse the mushrooms with cool water and pat dry with
paper towels, but do not soak the mushrooms. They
absorb water like sponges — mushrooms won’t brown
nicely if they are full of water.
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background and is currently
responsible for design and
construction at Florida Organic Aquaculture Farm, also
in Fellsmere. The first stocking of juvenile Pacific White
Shrimp juveniles was in June,
2015, with first harvest in August. The aquaculture system
used to raise the shrimp is
all-natural without chemicals
or antibiotics, fresh sea water from a
deep sea well 2300’ right in Fellsmere.
Fresh whole shrimp is the product
at the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market right now, and Ithuba
Shrimp Farm has plans to introduce
shrimp skewers and shrimp dip. Buying heads on shrimp allows use of the
head and shells for making stock for
shrimp bisque or any seafood soup.
Ithuba means “opportunity” in Zulu language. Ithuba
Shrimp Farm is literally using it as its true meaning.
Come take this opportunity to taste this delicious, fabulously fresh seafood right here every Saturday morning, from 8 a.m.
– 12 p.m., at the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market. It’s
a Saturday morning tradition! ❖
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Fort Pierce Mayor Awards Gold Hammer Winners
at Coffee with the Mayor
City of Fort Pierce Mayor Linda Hudson announced the
organizations, and newcomers
winners of the Mayor’s Gold Hammer Award on Friday,
to the area are welcome to share
March 18, at the monthly Coffee with the Mayor.
information about upcoming events
The award recognizes the efforts of residents and business
or activities occurring in the Treasure
owners in the Fort Pierce community that have significantly
Coast region. For more information about Coffee with the
improved their home or business through new construction or
Mayor call the Main Street Fort Pierce office at 772-466-3880
rehabilitation efforts. The Gold Hammer Award is present-
or e-mail [email protected]. ❖
ed in March and September. Nomination forms are available
in the Mayor’s Office at City Hall or on the City’s website at
www.cityoffortpierce.com.
The Mayor’s Gold Hammer Awards are sponsored by Ace
Hardware/East Coast Lumber. Each category winner receives
a $100 gift certificate from the sponsor and a sign displayed in
front of their home or business.
About Coffee with the Mayor. Join Main Street Fort Pierce and
Mayor Linda Hudson for Coffee with the Mayor. Coffee with
the Mayor is held every third Friday of the month at the Fort
Pierce Yacht Club (700 N. Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce).
The event begins at 8:00 a.m. and is a positive networking
experience for those that attend. Businesses, community
First Choice Healthcare & Counseling
Commercial Rehabilitation
608 S US Highway
Rocla Concrete Tie, Inc.
Commercial New Construction
600 S 3rd Street
Palm Massage
Commercial Renovation
208 Avenue E
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THANK YOU to all the sponsors, City of Fort
Pierce, volunteers, vendors, and everyone who came
out for the Bev Smith Automotive’ s Taste of the
Sea and Sandy Shoes Seafood Festival.
by Sue Dannahower
St. Anastasia
School House
1st place Chowder Winner — David Baxter Island Catering
In 1879, Thomas O’Brien, a Catholic Irish immigrant,
moved to Fort Pierce. He married a local girl, Courtney
Raulerson. The couple held mass in their home. A pastor
rode into town once a month to deliver mass. The first
Catholic Church was built in 1908. The school was later
built in 1914. The school is still located at the corner of
Orange Avenue and 9th Street and is owned by the City
of Fort Pierce. ❖
Iron Chef Competiton Winner — Taco Dive
Citrus Squeez-Off — FPUA, 8 years in a row!
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It’s All About the Bass
by Sue Dannahower
by Joe Payne
The largemouth bass is the most popular freshwater game
fish in Florida. Catching trophy-size bass is our goal. It’s
fun to go out and catch a few bass but when you catch that
trophy-size one it makes the day even better. That selfie shot
of you catching an 8 –10 pound bass goes right to Facebook.
Or when you take along the kids and watch them catch their
first bass or the 100th, that smile from ear to ear is priceless.
So go out there and catch ’em.
Equipment: Use a medium rod or, depending on what kind
of action you like, a medium/heavy. Use a spinning or bait
casting reel. Light tackle then use light line. You have several
choices of fishing lines from monofilament, fluorocarbon
and braided line. You get what you pay for. You don’t need to
break the bank on your tackle and you don’t want the cheap
stuff that’s going to ruin you fishing.
Live bait: Shiners are used with or without a bobber.
Use a leader line with a 2/0 to 5/0 hook through the
shiners lip or back.
Artificial lures: These come in
all sizes, colors, depth range and
price tags.
Crankbaits can be used to
cover a large area. The lures can
be used in vegetation, rocky
bottom and shallow flats. Many
crankbaits have rattles that help
attract bass. Crankbaits have
either lipless or with a lip
depending on the depth
you are fishing.
Spinnerbaits have a
unique blade shape and
weave through thick
vegetation.
Top water plugs are used
to ripple the water surface with popping and splashing while
you reel in. Choose a topwater that produces a lot of splash
and noise to attract the attention of a bass.
Jigs are used for short range flipping and pitching techniques.
Plastic and rubber lures are versatile and effective. They can
be used in heavy vegetation.
Go to your local fishing tackle store to answer any questions or get tips to help make you next fishing trip successful.
The new daily bag limit and size regulations start July 1. Also
check out myfwc.com for regulations and fishing tips.
Inshore has been wet and rainy with several nice days to
hit the water. The snook are still in season until May 31 with
some nice size over the slot/release catches. The trout and redfish have been found in 3 – 5 feet of water on the north. The
jetty has been packed with a mixed bag of sheephead, snapper
and flounder.
The offshore catches of king fish and dolphin have been
slow for some and plenty of action for others.
Happy Fishing! ❖
And Then There Are Mushrooms!
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
3 dozen medium-size mushrooms
1 pound Jimmy Dean sausage (or breakfast sausage)
1egg
½ Cup bread crumbs
¼ Cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese
4 Tablespoons green pepper, chopped
Salt, Pepper & Garlic Salt to taste
Clean and stem mushrooms. Save 3 cup of the stems and
finely chop. Put stems in mixing bowl. Mix together all
ingredients. The mixture should be on the dry side. Add
salt, pepper and garlic to taste. Place mushroom caps in a 8
x 14-inch cake pan. Place a meatball-size amount on each
mushroom cap. If there is any mixture left over, make small
meatballs. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 20 minutes or until the sausage is golden brown.
Mushrooms Stuffed
with Spinach, Pecans &
Cheese
48 Medium sized mushroom caps
4 Tablespoons olive oil
4 Tablespoons butter
2 cups onions, finely chopped
8 Tablespoons, chopped pecans
4 cloves garlic
10 ounces spinach
8 ounces feta cheese
8 ounces Gruyere cheese
8 Tablespoons fresh dill
Salt & Pepper to taste
Remove stems from mushrooms and save for another use.
Clean mushrooms. Heat oil and butter in skillet. Add onion
and cook until tender. Preheat oven 400 degrees. Add pecans and garlic to onion and cook for one minute. Add spinach and cook 5 minutes. Add cheese, dill, salt and pepper.
Arrange mushroom caps, cavity side up in a baking dish.
Spoon the spinach/cheese mixture into each mushroom cap.
Bake 8 – 10 minutes.
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Open for Lunch and Dinner Every Day
Home of the
Everyday Happy Hour
Early Bird Dinner
Specials Every Day
3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
3-Course Dinners for $14.99
122 North 2nd Street • Historic DowntownFort Pierce
293-9191 • www.2ndStreetBistro.com
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