Volume 3 No.3 Oct. 2007 - Main Street Fort Pierce

6 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007Mayor’s Message: Youth Leadership in Fort Pierceby Fort Pierce Mayor Bob BentonAs a parent of two childrenand Leader of the city, I knowhow important youth involvementin the community is. Ispend numerous hours speakingand conversing with youththrough my own children, recreationalactivities and committees.One can agree that byempowering our youth of todaywith knowledge, and leadership qualities we will continueto see positive growth and progress in our communityand within their future. One of my many goals asMayor of Fort Pierce, has been to encourage and facilitateour youth in becoming involved in our community. Thecreation of the Fort Pierce Youth Leadership Councilextends the invitation and opens more doors for studentsto become involved and gain knowledge of not only howbusiness and government works, but also how communityinvolvement and problem solving skills promote success.Young people are our greatest resource and by teachingand empowering them to be tomorrow’s leaders, wecan ensure progress in our growing community.The City Commission has been very supportive in myrequest to form this Youth Leadership Council. Thecouncil will consist of fifteen Fort Pierce resident studentsfrom our local High Schools and College. Membershipwill be selected by the Commission and given tothose determined to make a difference. We will focus anddiscuss issues such as education, after school activities,local sports, summer programs, as well as crime preventionand/or violence in the surroundings. With their constructiveassistance, and the commissions problem solvingabilities we hope to make progress towards improvingBRADFORD L. JEFFERSON, P.A.Proud supporter of Main Street Fort Pierce Personal Injury Wrongful Death Commercial and Civil Litigation Circuit Court MediatorHistoric Arcade Building101 North U.S. 1, Suite 208Downtown Fort PierceTelephone: 772.468.8887Fax: 772.468.2226

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 7these aspects of life in Fort Pierce. I feel by giving ourchildren every opportunity to succeed while here athome, they can help others as well as themselves to aspireto something great. My ultimate goal in this Council isto build a relationship between our youth and our leaders,because even though our youth can not vote in ourelections, they have valuable input and have the right tobe involved and offer their solutions.In addition to this Council I have the privilege of workingwith two local youth groups consisting of over forty studentsfrom Saint Lucie County. These two groups deal withsimilar issues concerning the environment, education, teenviolence, gangs and after school activities. They address theproblems associated with the issues and suggest solutionsthey feel would actually spur progress. By compiling inputfrom both sources I’m determined we can make advancementsin our community. Ihave also included andhave worked with our youthin the design of the skatepark to be constructed. Thecreation of this entity hasallowed youth to be constructiveand enjoy beingproductive in a safe atmosphere.I hope that progresswon’t stop here. By continuallymeeting with youth andstudents, I will be able tostay in touch with what isgoing on in their lives, andlearn what is needed to promotetheir welfare and thebest for our community.With my youngest son offto college, I see even morehow important our youthare. I hope with increasedinvolvement from others,we can succeed in bringingthe community closer andcontinuing the ongoingprogress, beginning withour youth.I encourage our youth topick up an application, andbecome involved. Knowledgeis power. Applicationsare available at the MayorsOffice, Fort Pierce City Hall.

8 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007In Memory of a Special Downtown Hero: Doris Blairby Anne SatterleeDOWNTOWN HERO“How you think is everything. Always be positive.”That is exactly what Doris Blair did throughout her life,work and community. While undergoing chemotherapyfor cancer, Doris continued to go into work and meetwith clients and assure deadlines were being met. Hercourage and positive spirit is one that will be sorelymissed in our community, but not forgotten, when youthink of Doris Blair, a.k.a., Blair Advertising.Originally from the Bronx in New York City, Dorismoved to Fort Pierce in 1979 after working on MadisonAvenue in advertising for over 30 years. It was herethat she founded her own advertising agency, BlairAdvertising in the historic P.P. Cobb building in downtownFort Pierce. As you know, the P.P. Cobb buildingis not your typical office building and the allure offunky, historic and located in downtown made perfectsense to Doris and what she set out to do best … givingher time and talents to the community.Having a bird’s eye view from the second floor of thehistoric Cobb building, Doris and her staff watched allthe lightening speed changes that were occurring in FortPierce during the early 1990s. The waterfront area andnewly installed roundabout at Indian River Drivesteered the once declining business district into a thrivingdowntown with economic and cultural opportunities.As downtown redeveloped and revitalized, so didthe agency. Blair worked on the 2001 Fort Pierce CentennialCelebration with Main Street Fort Pierce anddeveloped several marketing pieces for the Sunrise Theatrefor the Performing Arts.Volunteering was second nature for Doris and youcould always find her bringing her competent, professionaland talented skills to numerous volunteer efforts,whether it was for United Way, the Jazz and Blues Society,Rotary or Boys and Girls Club of St. Lucie County.She was selected by the United Way of St. Lucie

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 9County for several awards for their Circle of Honor andshe sponsored a gifted and enrichment NIE program forLakewood Park Elementary students’ artwork. Sherecently received an Award for Outstanding Contributionsto the Community from the St. Lucie CountyChamber of Commerce.A consummate professional, Doris’ commitment toher business was second only to her family. She took specialinterest in her nieces and nephews and found greatjoy later in life with her husband, Jack Blair, her stepchildrenand her many grandchildren. Those fortunateenough to have known Doris will remember her warmth,class, professionalism, personal responsibility and aboveall the positive attitude she maintained throughout herlife. “Think success, not failure. Doris was a believer andDoris Blairhas left an indelible mark in our community and she willbe long remembered.Blair Advertising Remains a Strong Marketing Force with Additionof New Ownersby Anne SatterleeDoris Blair knew who would be a perfect fit to purchaseBlair Advertising. After twelve years helping businessesand organizations expand on the Treasure andSpace Coasts, she made sure her dedication to personalservice would carry forward when she handed over thereins of Blair Advertising in June, 2007, to George andErica Byfield. They purchased the agency from Doris andwere able to work with her before her death to develop atransition period. Doris wanted to see the agency continueafter her death and see her staff and clients continueto thrive and prosper.Indeed it will with the dynamic duo of the Byfields,who are both from Jamaica and New York where theymet while traveling on an airplane. For the past threeyears, the Byfields have been living and working in Lakeland,Florida and read with interest the Blair Agencysales notice as a chance to work in a historic downtownwith the best advantage of all — on the water! Aftermeeting Doris, they knew this was a right fit and theirpassion about business would bring out the best in newand existing clients with the agency.PHOTO BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEGeorge and Erica Byfield, new owners of BlairAdvertising.The advertisingworld has changeddramatically in the lastfive years. It is theByfield’s integratedapproach to find creativeways businessescan leverage theirresources with newmedia, custom publishing,and direct delivery to reach customers with marketing.With a passionate, unconventional, boldapproach, it is their goal to identify strengths with theirclients needs and give them a workable yet comfortablemarketing effort.In addition, Blair Advertising has a new managed servicesdivision, which allows growing companies to expandtheir marketing capabilities by using the agency’s full rangeof creative services rather than incurring the cost of hiringadditional personnel of their own. Erica Byfield, agencyPresident, is a product and business development specialistContinued on page 12…

10 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007Treasure HillBy Patty ReynoldsYou never know where the next jewel will turn up onour famed Treasure Coast. It is often in the most unlikelyof places. Lloyd Properties, Ltd purchased a historicparcel north of town in August 2004. Built in 1926 fora Bulgarian philharmonic director from New York at acost of $86,000 it sits on one of the highest point in thecounty, commanding sweeping views of the Indian Riverand on to the Atlantic Ocean. In the late 1940s thehome was sold and renamed the Pleasant View Inn.Through the years it has been host to a number ofprominent owners and guests. Gloria Swanson ownedthe property for a short time in the mid 1940s. It isrumored that Joe Kennedy was her guest there. They sayAl Capone stopped by on his way home to Miami andtales are still told of Germans using the mansion as abase for espionage during the Second World War.Just weeks after Vincent Lloyd purchased thebuilding hurricanes Frances and Jeanne blewthrough, devastating the old structure.Two years of extensive renovations were carried outand in the process pieces of old wooden paneling wereremoved. Hidden behind them was a 30-foot mural likelypainted by local artist A.E. “Beanie” Backus and datingback to one of the Inn’s most vibrant periods.Evangeline and Bert Sagy purchased the Inn onMarch 28th, 1947, and began profitable careers asproprietors of this trendy tavern. The Inn became a

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 11fashionable place to go for an evening filled with firstrate music and food. While rumors have it that therewere more amenities than advertised in the News Tribune,those stories remain unconfirmed color attributedto an already engaging establishment.When I called my mom and asked for her memories ofPVI, as the Inn was known in the early ‘50’s she recalledthe lively atmosphere and above all the Sagy’s hospitality.Bert was a talented musician and would stroll down thestaircase playing his gypsy violin. Ma Sagy, as everyonecalled her, wore artfully applied stage make-up anddressed the part of a Hollywood glamour queen. She hada strong voice and Mom likened her to a brunette MaeWest. Ma’s signature song was a Bessie Smith’s blues tune,“A Good Man Nowadays, is Hard to Find.” Often changingthe lyrics around on the last line, she shaped a muchbawdier rendition of this famous song!Into this festive atmosphere Beanie Backus came tojoin his friends for a drink and an evening of entertainment.Was he commissioned to paint the mural, ormight it have been a bit of old fashioned bartering —an original painting from a local talent, in exchange fora bar tab in the evenings? Whatever prompted thepainting, we are all the beneficiaries of the diligenceVincent Lloyd put into preserving the treasure and ofR.L. Davenport’s, of Brush Strokes Art Gallery andFrame in downtown Fort Pierce, painstaking attentionto detail as she restored the painting to its originalsplendor. While working on the painting R.L. left allContinued on page 16 …DMHBDiBARTOLOMEO,McBEE, HARTLEY& BARNES, P.A.Certified Public AccountantsEstablished 1985Accounting & Tax ServicesYOU CAN’T RIDE OFF INTO THE SUNSETIF YOUR NEST EGG WON’T CARRY YOU.We’re big believers in a long-term retirement strategybased on objective financial advice. And in havinga financial consultant who can help you every stepof the way. To see whether your nest egg could benefitfrom such Midwestern horse sense, call us today.J. JEFFREY COOK BRUCE D. PERRYFinancial Consultant Assistant Branch Manager311 South Second StreetFort Pierce, FL 34950(800) 766-4101 • (772) 465-4100agedwards.com2007 A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc. • Member SIPC[48147-v3] A-1076-0508Please visit our website atDMHBCPA.comTwo Locations to Serve You on the Treasure CoastNew Address in Port St. LucieFort Pierce Port St. Lucie461-8833 878-1952Fax 461-88722222 COLONIAL ROAD, SUITE 20034950Fax 878-1709439 S.W. Port St. Lucie Blvd. Ste.11534984

12 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007… “Blair Advertising” continued from page 9with extensive experience helping corporations and nonprofitsidentify new markets and opportunities and hadworked with universities and government entities includingArlington County, Virginia and San Diego County,California, to name a few. She also worked in LondonEngland for the UBS Warburg Investment Bank and withthe University of Cambridge in England.Agency Vice President and CEO, George Byfield hasextensive product development and media integrationexperience with a focus on delivering results throughdirect response, radio and television, special events management,online media, publishing and collateral development.In the past, he has implemented and managedbranding projects for Staples, Business Week Media,Simon & Schuster Publishing, Holiday Inn and theDetroit Tigers. He also worked with Trinity Design onWall Street in New York as the project manager for theLower Manhattan 9/11 Redevelopment Projects and St.Paul’s Chapel Revelations from Ground Zero.PHOTO BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEThe Blair Advertising Team (left to right): Erica Byfield, President, Thondra Lanese,Account Executive, Ally Berry, Media Planning & Buying, George Byfield, CEO/CreativeDirector, Mark Conrad, Art Director (not pictured)If daily business demands aren’t enough, the couple hastwo children, Christian, 8 months and Charles, 6 years.George enjoys Jazz and volleyball along with any activityon the water! With their positive outlook and enthusiasm,Blair Advertising will certainly grow and afford new andexisting clients new areas to promote and growth theirbusiness. Blair Advertising is your marketing partner.

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 13Lincoln Park Main Street – One Year Laterby John CulverhouseIt is hard to believe that an entire year has passed sinceLincoln Park was designated a Main Street community.Though many communities applied, Lincoln Park wasone of only two designations made in 2006, and evenmore remarkable, it made Fort Pierce one of only twoFlorida cities to have two Main Street designations.Lincoln Park Main Street marked the occasion of itsone-year anniversary with a party at the Fort Pierce CommunityCenter on August 24th. They celebrated theaccomplishments of the past year and what is to come.Many positive changes have occurred in the past year.In our August, 2006 issue, Main Street Focus reported onseveral improvement projects that were in the works forAvenue D and the Lincoln Park area. The multi-milliondollar Human Development & Resource Centre, a projectbetween Indian River Community College and theFort Pierce Redevelopment Agency, is under constructionand the Jasper Dempsey Building at North 17thStreet and Avenue D is near completion. September 1,the Lincoln Park Farmer’s Market will resume once again,and will be held Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. atNorth 13th Street and Avenue D.The Lincoln Park Main Street President is Havert“Coach” Fenn. Coach Fenn, a former Fort Pierce CityCommissioner and Saint Lucie County Commissioner,has served in public life for many years and hasplayed a major role in many projects that have createdpositive changes in our area. The ambitious Board ofDirectors and growing volunteer base are made up ofPHOTO BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEReggan Ellis, Chairman, Lincoln Park Main Street Organization Committee, and EliseRollins, Lincoln Park Main Street Program Director.community leaders and activists who put in manyhours of their time and hard work into this greatcause. The program has two full-time staff members,Elise Rollins and Rosalyn Gaulden.The Four-Step Main Street approach includes: organization,design, economic restructuring, and promotion.The Lincoln Park Business Association acts as the economicrestructuring branch and is closely allied withLincoln Park Main Street. The Organization Committeebrings government and community leaders together tostrategize how to raise money for various Main Streetcommunity programs, projects and improvements.Continued on page 14 …PHOTOS BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEHuman Development & Resource Centre,North 29th Street & Avenue D.In front of Lincoln Park Main Street (left to right): Reggan Ellis, Betty Bradwell,Norciss Plummer and Elise Rollins.

14 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007… “Lincoln Park Main Street” continued from page 13Reggan Ellis is the Chairman of Lincoln Park MainStreet’s Organization Committee, and has been a LincolnPark Main Street volunteer since day one. His roots inFort Pierce go back a long way. His father, Willie B. Ellis,was the first Fort Pierce Police Officer to give his life inthe line of duty while protecting and serving the peopleof Fort Pierce. The Willie B. Ellis Police Substation atAvenue D and Means Court was named in his honor.“When I see a national program like Main Street wantto be a part of our community, it makes me very happy,”said Reggan Ellis. “It is very enriching and fulfilling to seeeveryone from around the community sit down at thetable and work together to make a difference.”Efforts that Main Street staff and volunteers put intoimproving the community are not easy tasks. Mosthave full time jobs in addition to numerous daytimecommunity meetings and activities. Once the workdayends at 5:00 p.m., the Main Street team meets togetherto strategize and address community needs.PHOTO BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEArts & Crafts from the Lincoln Park Main Street Summer Camp.One of Lincoln Park Main Street’s greatest successes hasbeen their summer camp that was held this summer for thearea’s youth. The summer camp promoted positive, healthyinteraction amongst some 300 campers and Main Streetstaff and volunteers. Camp activities included arts and crafts,and learning the tricks and trades of gardening. Campersplanted, maintained, and cared for vegetable plants such as

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 15tomatoes, okra, and peppers. The produce from these plantsare almost ripe, and though summer break is over, manycampers will return to pick the crops and then sell the vegetablesat the Lincoln Park Farmer’s Market.Elise Rollins, Lincoln Park Main Street Program Manager,says that creating a positive atmosphere for childrenwill keep them off the streets and away from delinquentbehavior like gang involvement. Furthermore, redevelopmentcannot be promoted in an area where high crimeoccurs. The camp has also created more communityinterest. Many parents of campers have joined MainStreet as members and have become part of the growingMain Street volunteer base.Great things continue to happen in Lincoln Park.New homes have been built in the area and many existinghomes have been renovated. Improvements to theGranny’s Kitchen and Miracle Ribs restaurants arecoming soon. An improved Betts Building — a projectbetween the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency andthe Saint Lucie Historical Society, and an improvedLincoln Theatre — a project between the Fort PierceRedevelopment Agency and the Martin Luther King,Jr. Commemorative Committee are also planned.The national Main Street program brings resourcesand components to create positive changes in communitiesacross the country. Rollins says the program hasshown Lincoln Park that they are not alone.PHOTO BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEPHOTO BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEFort Pierce Police Department Willie B. Ellis Substation, 1220 Avenue D.“Lincoln Park Main Street designation has given peoplea new vision, that change is possible and will occur,”she said. “It has changed the perception of the LincolnPark area outside and within.”With partnerships between Main Street, the City ofFort Pierce, community organizations, concerned citizens,property owners and residents, great changes willcontinue to occur in Lincoln Park, as reflected by a persistentcommunity determined to make a difference.Granny's Kitchen, 901 Avenue D.PHOTO BY JOHN CULVERHOUSEMiracle Ribs Restaraunt, 1807 Avenue D.

16 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007… “Treasure Hill,” continued from page 11that she could of the original, sectionswhich can be readily identifiedby the age cracksgiving character to Beaniesbrushstrokes.Home today to the TreasureCoast Antique Mall, the mansionon the hill is open for businessonce again. Stop in and visit,admire the long hidden mural andtake a stroll through the beautifully restored Inn. Don’tforget to look for treasures; you never know when you’llcome across a piece of history that you just can’t livewithout. In addition to background for this story, Ifound a letter written in 1876 that I plan to research,hoping to reunite it with a descendent of the writer. Ialso bought an old wooden needle holder just like theone my grandmother stored her needles in. For $12.00 Icame home with some great memories and two smalltreasures of my own.NEWLOCATION!COMEVISIT!4850 Orange Ave. • Fort Pierce772.461.6056 • 800.226.5056www.stamm-mfg.com

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 17Office Products & Services Relocating after Forty One Yearsby Carol JohnsonA local landmark next to the railroad tracks at 208Avenue A will no longer be there starting October 26,2007. However, the folks at Office Products & Services(OPS) are not leaving for good. They will still be a fixturein downtown Fort Pierce, but will be moving to their newlocation, the former J.C. Penney building, at 136 North2nd Street. You may already know that they have beenusing that location as a warehouse for the past several years.When asked what prompted the move, part owner RobertTillman stated that it was a “no-brainer.” OPS has beenleasing the Avenue A property since 1966, and they ownthe one on North 2nd Street. So, it was decided that a consolidationof merchandise from both buildings and a moveto the one that they owned would be the smart thing to do.Also, the 22,000 square foot North 2nd Street buildingoffers ample space to house all of OPS’s departments.Robert’s father, Sprucy Tillman, began this thrivinglocal business in 1951. At that time it was named FortPierce Typewriter Company and was located on OrangeAvenue. What started with typewriter repair later evolvedinto typewriter sales and service, then office supplies wereadded to the inventory. As more sophisticated officeequipment was developed, OPS realized the need for furtherexpansion. They now have a full service department,offering both warranty service and repairs for a variety ofoffice equipment. OPS also employs an interior designteam to help businesses choose the best office furniturefor their needs and provide help in designing office andcubicle space for more efficient use.Robert manages OPS and Sprucy now serves as a consultant,still coming to work every day in lieu of retirement.“Halloween Village”Other members of theTillman family serveas part of the salesforce and designteam. All together,there are 25 employeesincluding those atthe Vero Beach locationand a satelliteSprucy and Robert Tillmanlocation in Lake Worth.For business people in St. Lucie, Martin, Indian Riverand Okeechobee Counties who would rather shoponline, OPS offers a website, www.offproser.com, wherethey can place their order and have it delivered right totheir door. Even though there are national chains in thearea that offer similar products, the edge that OPS has isproduct knowledge and personalized service offered byemployees with several years of experience. From assemblyof office furniture to help in adjusting your officechair, the personal touch given to these and many otherareas sets OPS apart from the competition.One thing that customers will miss this year is Pam Dickson’sunique contribution to the personal appeal of OPS.Pam, who by the way is Robert’s sister, sets up a HalloweenVillage every year that she and other employees painstakinglyassemble. This diorama, which is approximately six-foothigh and just as wide, has become a yearly tradition thatstarted out as 2 small buildings in her living room. Pam feltthat it would be something others might enjoy, so shebrought it to the store, and the rest is history. It has nowgrown to be both an animated and stationary display whichboasts circling bats, cackling witches, a character that travelsaround pumping a hand cart and of course disembodiedhowling and mad laughter. Their October 26th move willnot allow enough time to assemble the display this year. Butrest assured, Pam is already planning for next year andpromises it will be just as good as it has been in the past.In the meantime, whether your travels take you todowntown Fort Pierce or if you prefer to shop online, youcan rely on Office Products & Services to supply whateveryou might need. Their move at the end of Octoberwon’t affect business in any way, since they‘ll only be closedfor one day to relocate the telephones and computers. And,like Robert says, it’s a “no-brainer” that you can count ontheir personalized service to continue for years to come.

18 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007SUNRISE CITY CARPETS, INC.127 N. Second St.Brian & Angela CampbellHistoric DowntownFort Pierce“Come see your next new floor!”772-489-8859In-Home Consultation AvailableFEE, DeROSS & FEEAttorneys at LawAn Affiliation of Professional Associations500 Virginia Avenue, Suite 200Fort Pierce, FL 34982Since 1905Now Celebrating Over 100 Yearsin Fort PierceFEE & FEE, P.A.Frank H. Fee, IIIFrank H. Fee, IV(772) 461-5020JOSEPH J. DeROSS, JR., P.A.Joseph J. DeRoss, Jr.(772) 465-3500Fred Fee (1888-1939) • Frank Fee (1913-1983)GUARANTEED . . .Lowest Service Department Prices in Town!Warranty with every vehicle!• Computer Diagnostics • Brakes• Air Conditioning • Tuneups• Oil & Transmission ServiceYou need it — we can do it414 South U.S. 1Fort Pierce 465-2100

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 19Artwalk is Backby Bob and Leslie LafferandreThey say everything old is new again, and Artwalk isno exception. Always held on the second Wednesday,the event in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce was startedas “Artwalk” because of the numerous galleriesdowntown at the time. While it has undergone somechanges in recent years, the name has now been officiallyrestored to “Artwalk” and it will be starting up againon Wednesday, October 10 with some new twists andmore fun. It has always been a time when all of the galleriesand stores open their doors from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.for an extended evening of shopping and fun. Therestaurants are open as usual for your dining pleasure.The Hot Sauce Boys will be starting the year off withtheir entertaining ways, just as they have for years at Artwalk.Leonard Wheeley will also be performing with hisnew group, 33 1/3 (formerly “Vision”).Look for them as you stroll from storeto store. There will be a chance to winfree gift certificates in each participating store — simplystop by and fill out a ticket in each store you would liketo win a gift certificate in. Special promotions and saleswill be going on in the stores throughout town.As the season progresses, the Downtown BusinessAssociation of Fort Pierce, which hosts the event, plansto have some different activities, contests, themednights and a variety of different entertainment to makeArtwalk more fun than ever before. Artwalk reallydefines the DBA motto of “Shop, Dine and Enjoy.”Artwalk — the second Wednesday of every monthfrom October through May.“THE CLOCK SHOP”of Fort PierceCELEBRATING 27 YEARSON AVENUE “A”YOUR TIME KEEPER• AntiqueRestoration• New ClockSales & Service100 Avenue A • Suite BThe P.P. Cobb BuildingHistoric Downtown Fort Pierce772-465-2768Specializing in Ladies’ Fashions and Giftsnot found in Department Stores and MallsVERA BRADLEYSpecial Occasion DressesDaytime DressesSportswearShoes & AccessoriesHome DecorBaby GiftsFree GiftWrapping105 S. 2nd St. Historic Downtown Ft. Pierce 461-1222Since1950www.cokesstationers.comYour Office Supply & Furniture Storeand SO MUCH MORE…CHRISTMAS CARDS &GIFTS AVAILABLE NOW!STOP & SHOPIN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN129 N. 2nd Street 461-2525

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October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 21“Ghost of Fort Pierce Past”by a Ghost of Fort Pierce PastI am a ghost of Fort Pierce past and there are places I want to showyou and people that I’d like you to meet. There are many secrets hiddenin the old walls in Downtown Fort Pierce and my ghostly friendsare looking forward to revealing themselves to you.Come take a walk with me on Wednesday, October 24, 2007 as westroll through the streets of Downtown Fort Pierce.I will introduce you to the railroad worker and listenfor the sounds of the train pulling into the depot.Oh look there is Annie Hogg, wife of the man whobuilt the original Cobb building and general store.Did you know that Fort Pierce was named afterColonel Benjamin Pierce, who established the originalFort that was used as army headquarters? I amsure one of the soldiers will come for a visit and tellyou about the past.AE “Beanie” Backus also known as the “Dean ofFlorida Landscape Painters” will make an appearance.He will explain how he painted his beautifullandscapes and how he inspired Alfred Hair and theHighwayman painters. Did you know that Beanie was firstemployed as a painter of theatrical signs, posters and displaysduring the Depression at the Sunrise Theatre?I will take you into the Sunrise Theatre on our tour ofDowntown. Rupert Koblegard created a stir when he completedthe largest vaudeville theatre on Florida’s East Coast inthe 1920s. But from the time it opened it was the place to goand many Hollywood stars such as Sally Rand andTom Mix performed on the stage.Fort Pierce has many landmarks, the RaulersonBuilding, the Boston House, the courthouse andmany characters that inspired our rich history. Socome take a walk with me! Wednesday, October 24, at6:00 p.m. for the Main Street Ghost of Fort PiercePast walking tour. $5.00 per person donation for thewalk; children under 5 are free.I promise you that my ghostly friends will arriveand return you back to the days of blacksmiths, liverystables, and general stores. They will divulge manysecrets and entertain you with tales of their past.For reservations or more information, call the Main Street office @ 466-3880.

22 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007Remembering the Ashleysby Patty ReynoldsFall in Florida lacks the sharp bite of a northernautumn, but we hold our own with haunted happenings,ghoulish delights and ghostly wanderings.As Main Street’s workday bustle is replaced with theearly evening laughter of restaurant regulars and theaterpatrons, shadows lengthen and daylight fades. Later still,a soft river breeze trails silently down sleepy streets. Inthese hushed moments do the spirits of unsettled ghostsflit past moonlit signs and quiet storefronts, eternallysearching for truth and understanding?If so, the notorious Ashley Gang may be inclined toroam the byways of our small town.With many thanks to Mrs. Ada Coats Williams for herthorough research capturing and preserving their story inher book Florida’s Ashley Gang; and additional appreciationto Mrs. Sally Glassburn, who on very short noticeallowed me access to the records of the Stuart HeritageMuseum, let me take you back to 1911 and the roughand ready folks populating our Treasure Coast.Ninety-six years ago a well liked and respected manmet an untimely end. DeSoto Tiger, new father of littleFlora and husband to Ada Micco, was a trapper and theson of Cow Creek Seminole Leader, Tom Tiger. It was hissad misfortune to cross paths with a local lad named JohnAshley. Were DeSoto and John trapping partners, as newsaccounts of the time suggest? Or, was it a chanceencounter — as proposed to Mrs. Williams, by elderlyMedicine Man Frank Shore — that led poor DeSotoTiger to an early grave? Could John Ashley have beentelling the truth when he said it wasn’t murder, but selfdefense that caused him to shoot and kill the trapper? Bythe time the Supreme Court “nolle prossed” him, basicallyreversing John’s conviction in the murder of DeSotoTiger, Ashley had racked up a string of offenses thatsealed his fate. Whatever the truth, DeSoto Tiger’s deathset off a chain of events that culminated in the controversialend to the Ashley Gang.More than the story of an outlaw gang, this is the taleof an old Cracker family and the times they lived in.Born and raised in Florida, John’s parents Joseph (JuliusW.) and Lugenia married in 1880 and set up housekeepingin Key West. Sometime between 1885 and 1904, thefamily moved to Fort Myers and then across the state,settling near Pompano. In 1911 they moved once again,this time to what is today south Martin County, but wasat the time north Palm Beach County.By now the family had grown to include five boys andfour girls: Julius Edward (Ed), born December 20, 1880;

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 23William Sidney (Bill), born May 18, 1883; Mary Alice,born September 2, 1885; John Hopkins, born March 19,1888; Robert Harris (Bob), born August 24, 1892; LolaRebecca, born April 12, 1894; Eva Jeanette, born January10, 1897; Franklin Zetlis (Frank), born December 16,1899; and Daisy May, born May 5, 1904.Neighbors counted Joseph a friend and the family settledinto their new community. Seven of the children stilllived at home and Daisy, Frank and Eva attended the StuartSchool. Mary and Bill lived nearby with homes andfamilies of their own. Mary, now Mrs. West A. Mobley hadthree children; Leato, Hanford and John, while Bill and hisbride Bertha were parents to three year old Walter.Bill was especially well liked by the Seminole Indians.He often joined them hunting and trapping otters fortheir hides. John was also an avid outdoorsman, spendinghis time camping and trapping. Perhaps it was his brotherBill’s close association with the Seminole trappers thatgarnered his acceptance into their circle, but that alliancecame to an abrupt end on December 29, 1911, when thedredger cutting a canal from Lake Okeechobee to theAtlantic Ocean pulled up the body of DeSoto Tiger,complete with a bullet hole through his head.John was the last person seen with DeSoto and the logicalsuspect. One story suggests that while the two menset out to sell pelts together, John arrived in Miami alone,where he sold the hides for $1,200.00, quite a sum inthose days.When John was arrested he admitted to killing DeSoto,but claimed self-defense. After one mistrial and aDermaTechDAY SPA, INC.Skin Care TreatmentWaxingNail TreatmentsMassageBody TreatmentsSpa Packages210 Orange AvenueHistoric DowntownFt. Pierce, FL 34950772.467.0607www.aaadermatech.comchange of venue, John broke free of his captors during atransfer from jail to courthouse. Following his escape, afailed attempt to hold up a Florida East Coast Railwaytrain foreshadowed the bank robbing, bootlegging andpirating John would turn to. Landing in and escapingfrom jail became a pastime that John, his brothers and afew “associates” excelled in. Dubbed the Ashley Gang,Continued on page 24 …Digital Cameras & Accessories • Film1-Hour Lab • Equipment • Repairs940 South U.S. 1, Ft. Pierce, FL772-461-0872

24 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007… continued from page 23they made a name for themselves up and down theTreasure Coast. Some accounts paint a picture of John asthe Robin Hood of the South, and others color hima common outlaw.The truth must surely lie somewhere in between. TheAshleys often helped those who were down on their luck.The children were well mannered and courteous. Growingup in those days required keen survival skills. Johnwas a crack shot, a reputation built on feats such as layinga bottle on its side, shooting through the mouth andout the bottom, all without chipping the glass opening.Like many southern boys he must have grown up with ahealthy sense of self-confidence and it seems that muchof the grudge that arose between the Ashley Gang andthe law came from John’s taunting of the officers chargedwith bringing him in.Disarming the men who came to arrest him and sendingthem back with the message “Tell Baker not to sendBoard Certified Civil Trial Lawyer200 South Indian River Drive, Suite 201Fort Pierce, Florida 34950Telephone(772) 461-7772R.N. KOBLEGARD, IIIAttorney At LawLitigation, Business, Real Estate,Probate, Criminal & Family LawFax(772) 461-0226any more chicken-hearted men with rifles, or they are aptto get hurt” did nothing to endear John to the Sheriff, evenif he did return the men’s weapons later by way of a friend.John Ashley and Sheriff Baker developed a feud thatbecame personal with John sending the Sherriff a bulletand a message that he had another just like it with theSheriff’s name on it. The Sheriff sent back word that oneday he would wear John Ashley’s glass eye as a watch fob.Was he more Robin Hood or Al Capone? It has beensaid that when they planned to rob the Pompano Bank,Joel Tracy, a member of the team, hired a taxi to drivehim to the outskirts of town. When they stopped, therest of the outlaws joined him to enjoy a picnic lunchand a bit of target practice. When they were ready to go,they left the taxi driver tied safely to a tree and let himknow where to find his car when they were done usingit to rob the bank. Before leaving, John gave the drivera rifle bullet instructing him to give it to Sheriff BakerFT. PIERCEALTERNATOR SERVICEIn Business Since 1961• Batteries • Alternators• Starters • Exchange or RepairPassenger Cars • Marine • Heavy Equipment1913 Okeechobee Rd., Ft. Pierce461-6786& restorativecosmeticdentistryCompassionate dentistry.New patientsalways welcome!Specializing in painless dentistryfor over 15 years.Dental Implants – the preferred alternative to bridges.Why cut down healthy teeth to replace missing teeth?Norman D. Knowles, DMD1511-B South 25th Street • Fort Pierce • 772-464-7214

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 25and to tell the Sheriff the Gang would be waiting forhim in the Everglades.Tales of the Ashley’s generosity abound. Stories ofmoney or groceries left for those most in need. Of a gangwho instead of looking for violence, eluded pursuers, disarmingand releasing them when possible - including atleast one man sent to kill John. He disarmed the man,gave him five dollars and sent him on his way.But the end was near and the bullet sent via the taxidriver was the last straw for Sheriff Baker. In February of1924, he sent a posse to a still run by the Ashleys. Theposse opened fire, and John’s father Joe was killed. Johnshot and killed Sheriff Baker’s cousin, Deputy FredBaker. After the raid on the still, tensions escalatedbetween the Sheriff and the gang.The showdown came November 1, 1924 on the SebastianBridge, just 28 miles north of Ft. Pierce. With informationand four deputies provided by Sheriff Baker, St.Lucie County Sheriff J.R. Merritt and two of his menstopped the gang as they pulled up to the bridge. Whenthe smoke cleared, four men were dead and many questionsremained.John Ashley, Ray Lynn, Hanford Mobley and ClarenceMiddleton ran out of time that night and the AshleyGang was no more, but their death brought the birth ofa new legend, one of whispered accusations. Were themen killed in a shoot-out while trying to escape, or werethey handcuffed and murdered in cold blood? The bodieswere brought back to Fort Pierce, and laid out for allto see in front of Fee’s Hardware Store and Mortuary onSecond Street. There were those who claimed they sawhandcuff marks on the dead men’s wrists.Lugenia Ashley’s grief is hard to imagine. Rakish highwaymenor outlaw bandits, these were her boys; son,grandson, and friend, she surely wept for them all. Withmore than her share of heartache she went to the smallfamily plot by her home. She had now lost a husband,four children, and two grandchildren. Eldest son Ed andyoungest son Frank lost to the sea; husband Joe cut downby the posse just months earlier; middle son Bob killednine long years before in a gunfight, desperately trying tosave his brother John from a death sentence in the Miamijail. Daughter Lola’s baby son lost the year before, restingin the grave next to Bob. Adding the loss of John andgrandson Hanford, must have been unbearable, but intrue Southern fashion she put a staunch face forward andwent on. Ray Lynn, whose family did not claim his body,was also buried with the family as a true and loyal friend.From that day onward, a debate raged about what reallyhappened in the dark of the night by the old woodenbridge. When all hope of learning the details seemed lost,a deputy who had been on the scene that night came forward.Requesting that the full story not be told as long asany of the deputies involved were alive, he opened hismemories to Mrs. Ada Coats Williams. His wishes werehonored and not until the last deputy passed away in1983 did she share his story with us.So how did it end? Were they resisting arrest, or wereContinued on page 24…

26 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007… continued from page 25they handcuffed and executed? To find out and to learnmore about this colorful and steadfast pioneer family,turn to Mrs. Williams’ book, then join us on our annualMain Street Ghost Walk, Wednesday, October 24, 2007!Hear more eerie history at the St. Lucie County HistoricalMuseum on Friday, October 26 & Saturday,October 27 from 7–9 p.m., when they present HauntedHistory at the Museum, two nights filled with Halloweenspirit (and spirits) including a flashlight walk throughthe “Boo”seum.State FarmFamilyInsuranceCheckupIt’s the simple wayto answerany questionsabout your familyinsurance protection.And it’s free.Bill Knight, Jr., Agent“24 Hour Good Neighbor Service”2301 Sunrise Blvd. • Fort Pierce • 772-461-7900State Farm Insurance CompaniesHome Offices Bloomington, IL“Like a good neighbor State Farm is there.”• VERO BEACH .................. 569-0686• STUART ........................... 335-2500• FT. PIERCE .............. 461-48004200 SOUTH U.S. HWY. 1 • FT. PIERCEComplete Sales & Service Center forNEW & USED CARS AND TRUCKS

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 27Local Partnerships Work to Improve Water Quality in the Indian RiverLagoon & St. Lucie RiverBy Linette TrabulsyThe Martin/St. Lucie Service Center of the South FloridaWater Management District was established in 1995 forthe purpose of working closely with local governmentagencies, as well as business and community groups, onwater resource issues vital to the Treasure Coast area.Some resources available through the Martin/St. LucieService Center include assistance with local surface waterpermits and environmental resource permits; outreachand educational information about local projects, includingrestoration efforts for Ten-Mile Creek, the St. LucieEstuary and the Indian River Lagoon; and informationabout planning efforts for the water supply of the UpperEast Coast. We also provide water quality and environmentalinformation about the Indian River Lagoon andSt. Lucie Estuary and assist with District initiatives torestore water quality in the area.One of the most important programs coordinated out ofthe Service Center is the St. Lucie River Issues Team FundingInitiative. The St. Lucie River Issues Team Funding Initiative,sponsored by State Senate President Ken Pruitt, is made upof members representing 17 different agencies and organizationsworking together to prioritize issues, procure federaland state funding and implement projects that havequantifiable results and a positive effect on both the St.Lucie Estuary and the Indian River Lagoon. The fundingcomes from the State Legislature, as well as federal fundingsources, with a 50% match from the project’s sponsor —usually local governments. Throughout the programs’ existence,many projects have been initiated, constructed andco-funded by the City of Fort Pierce, Fort Pierce UtilitiesAuthority and St. Lucie County. The South Florida WaterFort Pierce has been called the fishing captial of Florida and boasts easy accessto river and offshore fishing and recreational boating.Ryan & Kyle Trabulsy enjoy the waterfront atmosphere thatdowntown Fort Pierce provides.Management District, specifically the Martin/St. Lucie ServiceCenter, serves as the administrator of the funding.Downtown Fort Pierce is fortunate to be locateddirectly on the Indian River Lagoon. The Lagoon, whichincludes the St. Lucie Estuary to the south, is consideredthe most ecologically diverse estuary in North Americaand is home to more than 4,000 plant and animalspecies, including many endangered, rare or threatenedspecies. It also provides many recreational and tourismopportunities, as the Indian River Lagoon and St. LucieEstuary combined have an economic impact of over $1billion in terms of recreational use, fishing, ecotourismand increased land value.Since the Issues Team program’s inception in 1999,many projects within the City of Fort Pierce and thedowntown area have been constructed leading to directwater quality benefits for the Indian River Lagoon. Todate, the Issues Team’s recommended projects in thedowntown area and the South Beach area have receivedover $12 million for projects.Some examples of projects include: Moore’s Creek drainageimprovements; Taylor Creek bank erosion improvements;South Beach drainage improvements; and Paradise Park andHarmony Heights stormwater/drainage improvements.For more information about the Issues Team, contactthe South Florida Water Management District’sMartin/St. Lucie Service Center at (800) 250-4100 orvisit the District’s website at www.sfwmd.gov.

28 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007MembershipMain Street Fort PierceAs Fort Pierce Main Street begins its 19th successful year, it isundertaking an aggressive Membership Drive. “The Next Big Thing”campaign took off in May, 2006. Please consider becoming a MainStreet Member.Membership in Main Street Fort Pierce is open to anyone interested inhelping preserve our unique heritage. Our goal is to encourage andassist in keeping Downtown Fort Pierce a vibrant shopping and businessdistrict for future generations.We invite you to share your expertise and contribute toward makingFort Pierce Main Street a success in historic preservation and revitalization.Donations to Fort Pierce Main Street, a 501(c)3 corporation,are tax deductible.Membership Benefits:• Subscriptions to Main Street Focus and Website Links toFocus On-Line• Advance Notice and Invitation to Special Events• Membership to St. Lucie County Preservation Association• Listed on our On-Line Membership Page(Corporate & Private)• Networking & Volunteer OpportunitiesWhen residents support and appreciate the business district, thebusinesses flourish. When the businesses flourish, the residentsin the neighborhood prosper as well. We are all neighbors investingin each other’s success.Complete the form below and join our growing group of committed members. By joining Main Street Fort Pierce, Inc., you are supportingthe economic well being of the entire community.Main Street Membership LevelsPrivate:❑ Student . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15.00❑ Friend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$25.00❑ Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.00Corporate:❑ Small Business (less than 10 employees . .$100.00❑ Medium Business (11 - 50 employees) . . .$250.00❑ Large Business (51 or more employees) . .$500.00❑ Patron (all others) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00❑ Sponsor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000.00Name:______________________________________Company/Organization:________________________Street Address:_______________________________City / State / Zip:____________________ _________Phone:______________________________________Email:______________________________________❑ I would like to become a Main Street volunteer.Main Street Fort Pierce, Inc. • 122 AE Backus Ave., Fort Pierce, FL 34950For information call 772-466-3880 • www.mainstreetfortpierce.orgMain Street Fort Pierce, Inc., a 501©3 not-for-profit corporation,has encouraged and participated in the revitalization efforts ofdowntown Fort Pierce for the past 19 years.The efforts of many havepaid off. Downtown Fort Pierce is now recognized as one of the mostdesirable locations to live and work on the Treasure Coast, as well as,in the state of Florida.The Main Street program was created by the National Trust ofHistoric Preservation in the early 1980s.The program was designedto revitalize the historic commercial districts that were threatened toextinction by urban sprawl.The four-step Main Street approach isused by over 1,600 communities across the United States and itsmodel has been studied internationally.The success of Main Street Fort Pierce over the past 19 years is due tothe faithful commitment of current and past members of the Main Streetboard of directors, the City of Fort Pierce, local community organizations,local businesses, and general public support.Currently, the programconsists of fourteen volunteer board members and two full-time employees.During its existence, Main Street Fort Pierce has held approximatelytwenty-six downtown promotional events each year, educated publicschool children about the history of the area, won numerous local, state,and national awards, restored historic buildings including the SunriseTheatre, recruited businesses to the downtown area, held downtowncharrettes to encourage the public participation in revitalization efforts,created outdoor art programs, and helped fund an award winning imagecampaign along with the Downtown Business Association, the CommunityRedevelopment Agency, and the City of Fort Pierce.

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 29How Does FPUA Supply Electricity?By Camille YatesMany people in Fort Pierce might assume that all ofthe city’s electricity comes from our H. D. King PowerPlant in downtown Fort Pierce, especially since this planthas been producing electricity for 96 years. But less than10 years ago, Fort Pierce Utilities (FPUA) chose to combineits resources and began to purchase its power froman efficient, statewide power system called the FloridaMunicipal Power Agency (FMPA).In 1996, FPUA’s management team knew that the costto produce electricity for Fort Pierce from the H. D.King Power Plant would continue to rise. As the plantgot older and less efficient than newer power plants, itmade sense to look at other alternatives. FPUA’s goal hasalways been to provide its customers with reliable powerat the lowest price possible. As a result, FPUA decided tobecome a shared owner of FMPA rather than spend millionson upgrading the existing plant.In 1998, FPUA officially joined the FMPA All-Requirements Project which serves the wholesale powerneeds of 15 Florida cities. All-Requirements enablesmunicipal utilities of all sizes to become owners — notjust customers — of an efficient statewide power system.Members receive power from a diverse group of powerplants and purchased power generation. In addition tobeing a part-owner in the All-Requirements Project,FPUA also is a part-owner of Florida Power and Light’sSt. Lucie Nuclear Plant.FMPA owns several different generating units aroundFlorida, and also buys power from a number of differentpower generating facilities at the lowest possible cost. TheAgency is currently building a new power generation facilityat the Treasure Coast Energy Center (TCEC) near FortAerial view of FMPA's Treasure Coast Energy Center under construction.Kin plant photo caption - Aerial view of H. D. KingPower Plant in downtown Fort Pierce. Decommissioningwill begin in Spring 2008.Pierce. This highefficiencynaturalgas-fired powerplant will generate300megawatts,enough electricityto serve approximately60,000 homes in Florida. When the TCEC beginscommercial operation in May 2008, FPUA will begin todecommission its H. D. King Plant and the existing staffwill move to and operate the TCEC. TCEC will be oneof the lowest emission plants in Florida providing lowcostpower to FMPA’s members, including Fort Pierce.With a diversified power mix, FMPA avoids putting allits “eggs in one basket.” This practice allows FMPA tokeep its wholesale rates stable and relatively inexpensivefor a long time. At the end of this year, however, two ofFMPA’s power contracts, which have provided belowmarket power costs, will expire. FMPA has worked hardto replace the expiring purchased power contracts withthe most economical and environmentally-friendlyoptions available. They are also utilizing their existingassets to their maximum potential to keep costs down.FPUA’s base electric rate incorporates the costs tooperate the electric system, including maintaining thelines and all equipment, as well as a small portion ofpower costs. In addition to the base rate, FPUA uses thePower Cost Adjustment (PCA) to account for fluctuationsin the purchased power market. The PCA representswhat FPUA has to pay for power over and abovewhat is included in the base rate. It fluctuates over theyear, and is passed on to the customer, which is why customerssee an increase or decrease in the PCA. Whencosts go down, the PCA goes down. When costs go up,the PCA goes up.Since FMPA’s rates are going up due to the loss of twobelow market power-purchase contracts and capitalexpense for TCEC, FPUA will have to pass that increaseon to customers by raising its PCA. FPUA does not profitfrom PCA increases. To lessen the financial impact onits customers, rather than raise the PCA all at once,FPUA will gradually increase it over the next severalmonths. For more information about the PCA or FMPA,go to www.fpua.com or call 466-1600, Ext. 3900.

30 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007Season is Starting at the Lafferandre GalleryIt’s all about the paws and claws at the Lafferandre Gallery thismonth. Ceramicist Cynthia Zmetronak is the featured artist. Herwhimsical cat and dog themed pottery has always been popular withpet lovers. From her pet food bowls to her people food dishes, she createssomething for everyone who has a warm spot in their heart forpets. She will be there in person to kick off the Artwalk season onWednesday, October 10th to answer questions and talk about her pottery.Along with the pet theme, local watercolorist Joan Delozier willhave a few of her dog portraits on display — in time to order one ofyour favorite dog for the holidays. It’s not too early to be thinkingabout gift shopping.As the season progresses, Leslie and Laff are busy lining up somegreat shows — some new and some favorites back for encore viewing.That describes November — popular local artist George Rowe, agallery favorite, will be back with his new oil paintings from the pastyear. This year the Lafferandre’s have collected a number of differentChristmas tree ornaments for the holiday season. They plan to addsome different activities and some new focus to the gallery later thisfall. It promises to be another season of entertaining fun.

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 31Manatee Center Opens for 12th Seasonby Jann WidmayerThe staff and volunteers at the Manatee Observationand Education Center have had a very busysummer. We’ve been working on new displays, hadsuccessful volunteer recruitment events and developednew educational and outreach programs. We monitoredabout 12 manatees that swam up Moore’s Creek,west of US1 and enjoyed a wonderful time in thewater next to the Clem C. Benton Building. Concernswere voiced because the water levels in the creek candrop quickly and no one wanted the manatees tobecome trapped. Natural instincts prevailed and themanatees swam out with the tide, much to the relief ofall concerned. The Florida Manatee won another victoryas the FWC delayed the downward listing of themanatee as an endangered species for at least anotherthree months while they continue to evaluatecollected data.Continued on page 32 …

32 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007… continued from page 31Now, it is October and the Manatee Center hasopened the doors for its 12th season. We invite you tocome in, see the new displays, visit with our wonderful,knowledgeable volunteers and look for manatees.And, don’t forget to check out the Vanishing MermaidGift Shop. It is time to start shopping for theholidays and you can find many new and unique giftsthere. Also, look for the photos of ‘Mini Moe’s’ travels.He is our miniature mascot at the Center and hasbeen spotted around the world, in such places asBonaire, Colorado and the Biosphere. He really getsaround! Be sure to ask how you can have your ownphoto of Mini Moe posted. Our popular Indian RiverLagoon Wildlife Boat Tours are continuing to runTuesday through Saturday at 1pm. To reserve yourtickets, call the gift shop at 460-6445.We have many other events planned for the seasonand encourage you to pick up our events brochure atthe Center. Kayaking tours, canoe trips, Naturalistclasses, Brown Bag Lunch Lectures, children’s programsand Photo Safari Workshops are just a few of the funfilledevents we have planned. We are hosting a specialreception on the evening of October 18th. It is a combinationevent, showing off the Center’s new displaysand also the dedication of a plaque given in memoryof our good friend and partner, Grace Kedziora, affectionatelyknown as the ‘Turtle Mother’. The public isinvited to this special occasion.The Treasure Coast Manatee Foundation is alsoback in full swing, planning our fundraising events forthe season. The ever popular Evening of Jazz will beheld in January and our Bayou Blast is scheduled forApril. Be on the lookout, both in the Center and onour website, www.manateecenter.com , for more informationabout these events.We are excited about this season at the ManateeCenter and look forward to having you visit. Thehours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10-5 and Sunday,12-4. For additional information, call us at 466-1600,ext 3333 or visit online at www.manateecenter.com.Immigration AttorneysInvestors, Professionals,Multinational CorporationsLabor CertificationsRelative Petitions andEmployer RepresentationGLORIA ROA BODIN, P.A.www.gloriaroabodin.comgglobo@aol.com215 N. Second St – Fort Pierce, FL 349502655 Le Jeune Rd. Suite 1001 – Coral Gables, FL 331343620 Colonial Blvd. Suite 150 – Fort Myers, FL 33912Tel: (305) 442-1322 – Fax: (305) 444-7578 – Toll Free: 1-800-442-0440Before choosing a lawyer, ask for written information about the lawyer’s legalqualifications and experience.

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 33p f g h j k l x c nDiva Recipes! TailgatingI will be the first to admit that I am not a football fan.I’ll watch it if I have to and can even talk intelligentlyabout it to a certain degree, but I am not a fan. To me, afootball game is just a good excuse for a party — preferablya tailgate party.Grilled and smoked dishes are very common at a tailgateparty, but the most popular dish is Chili. It is easy tomake ahead of time — or even on site — and is hot andfilling, which can be important if you are tailgating on acold day. Top your chili with chopped green pepper,chopped onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollopof sour cream and you have warm, comfort food.Tailgating Chili1/2 pound bacon, finely chopped2 pounds sirloin, 1/4-inch cubes1 onion2 Tablespoons garlic2 Tablespoons chili powder1 teaspoon cumin1 teaspoon oregano3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste4 cups beef stock or canned beef broth2 large can crushed tomatoesSalt & pepper to taste2 16-ounce cans chili beansCorn meal to thickenGarnish:Sour creamChopped green pepperChopped onionsShredded cheddar cheeseCook bacon in a large stock pan until browned.Drain. Discard all but 2 Tablespoons drippings.Return the pan to medium heat. Add the sirloin andonion to bacon drippings and cook, uncovered, stirringoften, until the meat loses all red color, about 20 minutes.Add garlic into the casserole with the beef. Stir in thechili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper andcook, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes.Add beef stock and crushed tomatoes. Taste and correctthe seasoning, adding salt if needed. Use corn meal to thicken,stirring one Tablespoon at a time. Continue to simmer,stirring often, for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until the meatis tender and the chili is reduced to desired consistency.To serve, ladle into bowls and garnish each servingwith green pepper, onion, cheddar cheese & sour cream.Serves: 8-10.Yates Funeral HomesServing the Area Since 1897SalutesMain Street Fort Pierce1101 So. U.S. 1, Fort Pierce, 461-7000Treasure Coast AbstractAnd Title Insurance Co.500 Virginia Avenue, Suite 200Fort Pierce, Florida 34982Frank H. Fee III Esq.PresidentFrank H. Fee IV Esq.Vice PresidentWendy LoundsOffice ManagerTELEPHONE: (772)461-7190FAX: (772)461-0487

34 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007PAXTON & WILLIAMSATTORNEYS AT LAWNORMAN L. PAXTON, JR.GEORGE L. WILLIAMS, III606 BOSTON AVENUEFORT PIERCE, FL 34950 772.465.5795Top ProducerMidwayIndependently Owned and OperatedJoanne McCurdyResidential, Land, Commercial909 W. Midway RoadFort Pierce, Florida 34982Direct: (772) 216-2821Direct Office: (772) 429-3588Direct Fax: (772) 429-3590 (772) 467-9097E-Mail: joannemccurdy1@aol.comBUILDINGMATERIALSServing Your Building Needs With 6 LocationsFrom Jupiter to Titusville Since 1980For All Your Building and Remodeling Needs❑✓❑✓❑✓Gypsum Drywall & AccessoriesStucco & Plastering ProductsHand and Power ToolsTop Quality ProductsCompetitive PricesPrompt, Dependable Service945 Wagner Place • Fort Pierce464-6900✓❑✓❑✓❑Rain or Shine —Our Focusis Quality.On-Site or Off-SitePrescriptions WelcomeExaminations byDr. Shannon Clark Leitenbauer, O.D., F.A.A.O.Contact Lens Services& Surgical Consultations AvailableQuality optical service since 1961O FFICEP RODUCTS &S ERVICES, INC.VERO BEACH713 SOUTH US 1PHONE 567-2404FAX # 567-4433FORT PIERCE208 AVENUE APHONE 464-0450FAX # 468-0984Other Areas 1-800-226-6774Visit us online at: www.offproser.comE-mail: info@offproser.com2305 Oleander Ave., Suite 1 • Ft. Pierce, 34982(Corner of Virginia and Oleander)465-0544Office Furniture

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 35Sunrise Theatre: Robert Cray BandFor thirty-plus years Robert Cray has laid down trackof good-time, uptown, low-down blues. He’s won fiveGrammy’s and been nominated for 11 more, inspiredcritics to praise his soulful vocal and instrumental artistry,earned respect from his peers, and sent young guitaristsrunning back to the woodshed.What he hasn’t done is work this magic on a fulllengthconcert CD, where the fires that drive himonstage turn on disc as well. Not, that is, until now.On The Robert Cray Band: Live From Across The Pond,the first release on Cray’s own Nozzle Records imprint,the celebrated triple-threat singer, guitar slinger, andsongwriter presents the best moments from his weeklongrun at London’s Royal Albert Hall in May 2006,opening for friend and mutual admirer Eric Clapton.From classic titles (“Phone Booth”) to highlights fromhis latest releases (“Poor Johnny”), whether addressingtimeless themes of heartache and romance (“The ThingsYou Do To Me”) or this morning’s headlines (“Twenty”),Cray delivers on a promise he’s been making since hisfirst trip into the studio.That promise — to record himself and his band wheninspired by their fans at the instant of performance —pays off on Live.Aside from their musicianship, the key to Cray and hisband is their history. Through more than a thousand gigsplays around the world, they’ve locked in a sound that’selegant and direct, searing and smooth.You can catch Cray and his band on Sunday, October21, 7:00 p.m. at the Sunrise Theatre in historic downtownFort Pierce. Tickets are available on our website atwww.sunrisetheatre.com.Sunrise Theatre PerformancesOctoberWorking Class Hero: A Tribute to John Lennon, Friday, October 19Robert Cray, Sunday, October 21NovemberBallet Folklorico de Mexico, Saturday, November 17Tango Buenos Aires, Wednesday, November 213 Redneck Tenors, Saturday, November 24Glen Campbell Christmas, Sunday, November 25Anuna: Celtic Origins, Tuesday, November 27DecemberJose Feleciano, Tuesday, December 11Peter Pan: The High Flying Musical, Thursday, December 6“A Christmas Carol” Sunday, December 23For more information, visit www.sunrisetheatre.comor call (772) 461-4775.

36 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007Gary Roberts Nursery & Landscape Expands ServicesGary Roberts Nursery & Landscape, Inc. has beenawarded the title of a Certified Concrete Paver InstallerCompany by the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute(ICPI) of Washington D.C.Gary “Bud” Roberts and Charles Aube from GaryRoberts Nursery & Landscape, Inc. attended a two-dayconcrete paver training session which covered subjects suchas soil characteristics, soil compaction and compactionequipment, edge restraint systems, base materials, and selectionof pavers and patterns. Upon completion of the traininga comprehensive exam was given, and both men wereawarded the distinction of Certified Concrete Paver Installer.Local Store Owner Featured in National Magazine“We are proud to offer Brick Paver installation tohelp compliment our service line. It is a growing industryand a perfect match for our landscape business. Andof course, we want our quality in brick pavers to becommensurate with our landscape proficiency, as exemplifiedby our certified professional classification inevery aspect of our service offerings which includegrowing, landscape designing, installation of plants andnow installtion of pavers,” comments Gary Roberts,owner of Gary Roberts Nursery & Landscape, Inc.Visit www.garyrobertslandscape.com and www.icpi.orgfor more information.Susan Barette, owner of Beads andBaubles in Historic Downtown Fort Pierceis featured in the October issue of Bead andButton, a national publication for beadingenthusiasts. Featured is a necklace she madeusing glass beads made by famous Italianglass artist Luigi Cattelan.Every year, Susan invites Luigi Cattelan, an Italian Muranobead maker with a rich family history over to her store todemonstrate how he makes his beads. Luigi’s family has beenmaking beads in Italy since the 1300s. Luigi is most noted forhis chevron beads, which he makes the same way as it was inthe 1800s. Luigi was knighted as a Cavalier of the Republicof Italy in 2005 for his contribution to the country.Luigi’s beads are just one of the many treasures that can befound at Beads and Baubles. Susan carries an array of beadsand jewelry making equipment and teaches numerous classes.Stop by and pick up one of the monthly class schedules.Beads and Baubles, located just north of Avenue A onN. Second Street is just one of the many fun stores thehistoric district has to offer. For more information,contact Susan at 772 468-0207 or atbeadsandbaubles@bellsouth.net.

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 37Classic Car Cruise Inby Leslie LafferandreClassic Car Cruise In held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. the lastFriday of every month in Historic Downtown Fort Piercehas become an institution already. If you haven’t been to a“Cruise In” you are missing out on a whole lot of fun.With over two hundred cars last month on display, it wasan awesome display of hot rods, antiques and muscle cars,guaranteed to bring back memories of days gone by.To help fuel those memories, there are live bandsplaying on the street corners. This month “Sha-Boom”and “Flashback” will be playing the nostalgic tunes thisFuller – Armfield – WagnerAppraisal & Research, Inc.120 N. Second Street, Fort Pierce, FL 34950Office: (772)468-0787 • Fax: (772)468-1103S. Florida: 1-800-273-7364Daniel D. Fuller, MAIPresidentE-Mail: FAW_app@bellsouth.netSt. Cert. Gen. REA#RZ567Same Location Since 19821510 Orange Ave.Ft. Pierce 466-8767month. Feel free todance in the streets asyou stroll down memorylane and view the varietyof vehicles lining the streets. Moroso Auto Sports will bebringing some specialty cars down to perform and add tothe fun.Most stores, galleries and restaurants are open late,so come on down and shop, dine and enjoy on Friday,September 28th. Brought to you by the DowntownBusiness Association of Fort Pierce and sponsored byBudweiser, Morosa Auto Sports, the Tribune and theCity of Fort Pierce, the Classic Car Cruise In is the placeto wind down the month the last Friday of every month.For further information call 772 618-0989 or check outthe DBA website www.fortpierce-fl.com.BROWNINGFort Pierce 465-8425Vero Beach 569-9444Stuart 287-8972TOLL FREE 800-867-0793Fax 772-465-7627Brett W. Browning, LUTCFInsurance & Financial ServicesEileen Myers, CSRLaurie Wiley-Doughney, CSRAlice Iannarelli, CSRCatherine Browning, AccountingBrowning Corporation100 Avenue A , Suite 1FHistoric P.P. Cobb BuildingDowntown Fort Pierceemail: mail@browningins.com website: www.browningins.comReally, Really Affordable — BRAND NEW!New 2 Bedrooms, $748.00 PITI/monthNew Furnished Efficiency, $420.00 PITI/month$0 MONEY DOWNFHA & 1st-Time Homebuyers ProgramsWEATHERBEE VILLASNE ST. LUCIE, WHITE CITY, SE FT. PIERCE AREARAcross from Gator Trace County Club1221 E. Weatherbee Road(East of US 1, north of Midway)Blocks to Savannah Park & Weatherbee ElementaryPerfect & priced for investment, retirement, first time home buyersCall Larry to view at 772-359-0360Licensed RE Broker BK0260090

38 MAIN STREET FOCUS October 2007GATOR TRACEGolf & Country Club“tee times 464-0407”BANQUETSOur Beautiful Clubhouseis Availablefor your Special FunctionCall us at464-74424302 Gator Trace Drive • Fort PierceConveniently Located 1/2 Mile East of U.S. 1 Off Weatherbee Road++Roy’s Liquors!Boozgeois SaloonFine Wines • Full Beverage Catering720 South U.S. 1, Ft. Pierce461-3097++

October 2007 MAIN STREET FOCUS 39The OriginalIn the middle of everythingthat makes Fort Pierce Fun . . .“We overlook nothing . . .except the beautiful Indian River”Daily Drink SpecialsfeaturingCruzan Rum&Margaritaville TequilaLive EntertainmentFriday, Saturday & SundayServing Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week Fort Pierce Tribune’s People’s ChoiceAward for Best Happy HourTwo Avenue A • Fort Pierce City MarinaTel: 772.461.0880 • Fax: 772.461.3989 • www.originaltikibar.com