
Good Morning, Sunland
It’s Friday! and quick correction. Yesterday, I mentioned the food trucks and tributes happening over in Tradition. This month is actually a Michael Jackson tribute, and not a Journey tribute. So, just FYI. But if you haven't checked out the full events list from yesterday, check it out here. Alright…
🌧️ Weather Update: Showers and storms.
☀️ Day: High of 83°F | A few showers this morning then thundershowers developing
🌙 Night: Low of 75°F | Mostly cloudy this evening with showers developing
🌅 Sunrise: 7:15 AM | 🌇 Sunset: 7:05 PM
🌙 Moonrise: 5:01 PM | 🌚 Moonset: 3:25 AM
🎶 Sounds like: "Computer Love" — Zapp & Roger

Ja’Min Devon
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🚊 Main Squeeze: Port St. Lucie Closing Solid Waste Drop-Off Center to Save $2 Million

What's Going On: For many in the county, but especially in Port St. Lucie, trash has been a pretty hot button issue. Many residents have been citing and taking issue with the fact that trash is only picked up once a week. And the drop-off center, which was supposed to be some alleviation of that, well, now that is no longer. Port St. Lucie is permanently closing its Solid Waste Convenient Drop-Off Center on Cameo Boulevard effective January 5, 2026. City officials say only 25% of residents use the facility and operational costs exceed what taxpayers pay in solid waste assessments.
Show Me the Money: The closure is expected to save the city about $2 million annually. City Manager Jesus Merejo called it a data-driven decision reflecting the city's commitment to fiscal responsibility and efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
What's Next: Residents will still have options for bulk waste disposal:
Monthly curbside bulk collection: Up to 2 cubic yards on your scheduled collection day
Self-hauling to St. Lucie County landfill (fees may apply)
Additional bulk pickups: $18.50 per cubic yard by calling 1PSL at 772-871-1775
Bottom line: Port St. Lucie is closing an underused facility that costs more to operate than it brings in, saving $2 million while maintaining alternative bulk waste disposal options for residents.
What do you think about closing the drop-off center? Leave your thoughts here.
🗞 Press Round: Planes, Crowds & Raises

✈️ Vero Airport Scrambles to Handle Three Airlines
City leaders held emergency discussions on infrastructure needs after JetBlue and American Airlines announced service, joining existing carrier Breeze Airways at the one-gate terminal. Airport Director Todd Scher says parking is the most urgent issue, with cars overflowing onto grass lots daily since 2023, though Mayor John Cotugno worries about rushing into expensive projects before demand proves lasting.
🎵 Okeechobee Music Festival Announces 2026 Lineup
The four-day festival returns March 19-22 at Sunshine Grove with headliners The Lumineers, Fisher, GRiZ, and T-Pain leading a 60-artist roster. Four-day general admission tickets go on sale Friday starting at $439 for the spring event featuring electronic, hip hop, rock, folk, and pop artists.
💵 Martin County Teachers Could Become Highest-Paid on Treasure Coast
The school district and union reached a tentative agreement that would use nearly $1 million for raises and performance pay, making Martin County the top-paying district in the region. The deal includes up to $400 for highly effective teachers on annual contracts and requires School Board approval October 7th.
🤩 People Pass: What your support means!

I really appreciate everyone who chooses to support the newsletter, whether through a People Pass or our new Pay What You Want membership.
If you’d like early access to The Main Squeeze podcast and extra stories that don’t make it into the newsletter, consider becoming a supporter. It helps keep Sunland going and growing.
🎉 The Top 5 Clicked Events This Week!

Friday, Oct 3
Sunday, Oct 5
Tuesday, Oct 7
🍽️ The Big Taste of Martin County – Culinary showcase supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters at Atlantic Aviation in Stuart. | 5:30–8:30 PM | Ticketed | Details
If you have an event, send it to me here
💧 The Last Drop: Pay Up, Shut Down… !

💵 Florida minimum wage rises to $14 – Hourly rate increases from $13 as of September 30th, part of gradual climb to $15 by 2026. Tipped workers now earn $10.98/hour. Wage update
🏛️ Federal shutdown impacts Treasure Coast – Government shutdown began October 1st after funding bill failed. Coast Guard continues essential missions, post offices stay open, wildlife refuge buildings close. Local effects
🚗 Florida's top specialty plates revealed – Endless Summer leads with 143,000 plates, followed by Helping Sea Turtles Survive and University of Florida. Over 2 million drivers have specialty tags. Plate rankings
📸 This is Sunland: Photo Finish ! ! !

See you Monday!
With Love, Ja’Min

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