Good Morning, Sunland! It’s Tuesday!

Welcome to Sunland News — the newsletter that's like that friend who always knows where the cheapest gas is in town and gives you a heads-up when it's finally under three dollars.

For those new around here, Tuesdays are our deep dive days. It's when we dig into something interesting, something that could use a little more spotlight. Today, we’re diving into the SLC Cultural Alliance and the art gallery right in downtown Fort Pierce.

Let’s get to it!

— Ja'Min

📚 Read Time: 3.5 Minutes
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Weather TL;DR: "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" Expect some scattered storms. Probably some humidity after. You know…

🌞 Day: High of 89°F
🌙 Night: Low of 74°F
🌅 Sunrise: 7:07 AM
🌇 Sunset: 7:23 PM

☔ Rain: 50% chance during the day, 15% chance at night.

Stay dry out and about! 🌧️

Check Full Weather Report Here

🎉 5th Annual Lincoln Park Business Expo
🗓️ Date: Friday, September 20th
🕚 Time: 11 AM - 4 PM
📍 Location: Percy S. Peek Gymnasium, Fort Pierce

This seems like a really great event to go to if you can, I know I definitely will be there. A little early in the day if you work, but if you can sneak just an hour in, sounds like it will be worth it.

• 💡 Entrepreneurs Panel: Gain insights from successful business owners.

• 💰 Lenders & Grant Match: Discover resources to take your business to the next level.

• 🏆 Pitch Event: Showcase your business ideas for valuable feedback.

• 🎁 Prizes & Giveaways: Enjoy gift bags, raffle tickets, and more.

• 🛍️ Community Pop-Up Shop: Explore local businesses from 2 PM to 4 PM.

Whether you're a business owner or just curious, this expo offers something for everyone. Best of all, it's FREE to attend! [Read More Here]

🚗Check the current traffic situation via Google.

Stumbling Upon Fort Pierce's Art Vault

Last Thursday, I was indulging in one of my favorite pastimes: strolling through downtown Fort Pierce with my camera slung around my neck, just taking pictures. And, as always, the inevitable happened. I got stopped by a few people asking if I was a reporter, a tourist, or if I was one of those "art students," if I remember the quote correctly. I’m kind of "yes" to two of those and definitely "no" to one. But every time, I end up meeting interesting people.

This time, it was a gentleman with a van full of newspapers (St. Lucie Voice), dropping them off around town. It was like a real-life representation of what I do every morning when I hit "publish," just without the van and the thousands of loose-leaf papers bundled up in the back. But as I continued walking, I came across the sign you see below.

Obviously, it struck me—so much so that I dropped everything and crouched down to grab a picture of it. A guy a little ways ahead thought I had passed out and came running with some water (😂 not a joke, shoutout to him for that). It clicked for me that this sign was for "The Vault." Just the week before, I had covered the news that the St. Lucie Cultural Alliance was in desperate need of support as they sought additional funding to keep their operations going. In fact, the Alliance had been in danger of closing without any funding from the county. Thankfully, support came just in time in the form of a matching grant.

The St. Lucie County Commission initially allocated only $75,000 to the Alliance, which was half of what they had requested. This amount was crucial, as the Alliance had been receiving $150,000 for the past four years, making up nearly 45% of its budget. After the September 5th meeting, several county commissioners expressed support for increasing this funding, potentially matching it up to $300,000 if the Alliance meets certain benchmarks. This support comes at a critical time, especially after the Alliance lost a state grant due to budget cuts by the governor.

So, with all this in mind, I realized this was the gallery I had always heard about but never actually checked out. I went in and headed downstairs to what can only be described as one of the best moments I've had in the city lately. I felt like I had been transported to another world, full of art and crafts from so many different perspectives and artists. There were beach and bird scenes, more serious political art, some abstract pieces—it was an all-around great experience.

Speaking with Terry while I was roaming around in the basement, it became clear that while the recent funding offers a lifeline for the next few months, they are still in need of ongoing support. The Alliance is a vibrant part of our community, offering a cultural space that brings together artists and art lovers alike.

So I wanted to shed some light on this incredible experience that exists right here in town. If you're into the arts or just looking for something "different" to do, I think you would really enjoy checking this place out. There’s so much to do in and around town; it’s all about where you’re looking.

Have you ever visited 'The Vault' or any other local art spots in Fort Pierce? Respond to this email and let me know.

📅 PSLBW September Business Luncheon
🗓️ Date: September 19, 2024
🕒 Time: Afternoon
📍 Location: Tutto Fresco, 9501 Brandywine Ln, Port St Lucie, FL 34986

Join the PSLBW for their September Business Luncheon and learn about this 44-year-old business women's organization. RSVP is a must—secure your spot by using the ticket link to pay via their website or email [email protected]. Lunch is $20.

🎶 Bluegrass Jam
🗓️ Tuesday, September 17,
📍Pierced Cider, 411 N 2nd St, Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Pierced Ciderworks is hosting the Sunrise City Bluegrass Jam every Tuesday from 6-9 PM. Hosted by Trevor Klutz, featuring some of South Florida's best bluegrass artists. Bring your acoustic instrument and join the jam session. First cider is on the house for all participants!
[Read More]

🍀 Halfway to St. Patrick's Day
🗓️ Tuesday, September 17
📍Pierced Cider, Fort Pierce, FL
Join the fun at Pierced Cider for a day full of Irish cheer as they celebrate the halfway point to St. Patrick's Day! Enjoy traditional food like corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fun activities like a leprechaun contest. Drink specials include the Hardcore Granny on tap and Babycakes special.
[Read More]

🎶 Night to Shine Music Bingo
🗓️ Tuesday, September 17
📍Hop Life Brewing Company, 679 NW Enterprise Drive Suite #101, Port St. Lucie, FL
It's that time again! Night to Shine is joining for Music Bingo! There will be prizes, raffles, and donation opportunities. Bring an old friend, make a new one, and have a blast!
💰 Cost: Free
[Read More]

🍻 Chamber Night
🗓️ Tuesday, September 17, 5 PM
📍The Saints Pub, 2601 SE Morningside Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
Join the St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce for a special evening featuring Jon Prince, Superintendent of St. Lucie Public Schools, as the guest speaker. Learn, network, and have fun! After the talk, grab your BINGO card and play for a chance to win exciting cash prizes! This event is free and open to the public.
[Find Tickets]