Weekend Happenings

Farmers Market and Craft Show at the Fort Pierce Marina

St. Lucie County

Date: Event occurs every Saturday of every month.

Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: Downtown Fort Pierce

Address: 1 Avenue A – Fort Pierce

Category: Other

Come enjoy the extraordinary Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market where there are over 70 friendly vendors that offer a wonderful and diverse selection of delicious foods, exotic plants, savory spices, and much much more!

For More Information

 

****************************************

 

YMCA Healthy Kids Day

 

Date: Saturday April 30, 2022

Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Location: YMCA of the Treasure Coast

Address: 1700 SE Monterey Road

Price: FREE

Category: Kids / Family

Join us for the 30th Annual Healthy Kids Day®, the Ys national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids and families, happening on Saturday, April 30,

2022! YMCAs across the country host free community events aimed to inspire kids to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer months. The day will feature summer camp, fitness, and first responder demonstrations, concessions, and an interactive community mural! All activities are designed to inspire kids to get active while simultaneously teaching families how to develop routines that support mental and physical health at home. At the Y, we believe kids can do anything with the right support. Thats why we are committed to helping kids get on, and stay on, a healthy youth development journey that includes physical, cognitive, and social-emotional growth.

YMCA Healthy Kids Day Info

 

****************************************

 

Invasive Plant Identification Hike

Date: Saturday April 30, 2022

Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Location: Savannas Preserve State Park Main Entrance

Address: 2541 SE Walton Road, Port St Lucie, FL 34952

Price: $3/vehicle

Category: Educational

On April 30, 2022, enjoy a self-paced Invasive Plant Identification hike suitable for all ages! The quarter-mile long Glass Lizard Trail will be transformed into an educational experience from 10 am to 2 pm with pictures of the most common invasive and exotic plant species of South Florida. Enter the trail to the right of the Education Center. AmeriCorps members from Savannas Preserve State Park will be available to answer questions about invasive plant removal and volunteer opportunities!

Invasive Plant Identification marks the second event of the Savannas Summer Passport Series! Each month, a new Chapter will be featured (April is Resource Management!). Attending one event from each Chapter earns you a pin! Collect all the Savannas pins to show off to your friends and family! The Passport Series is recommended for ages 6 and up.

The Glass Lizard Trail is unpaved and could possibly be muddy. We encourage closed toed shoes that can get wet! Park Admission Fee is required to walk the trail. You can purchase a one day pass online by visiting the official Florida State Park Page or you can purchase your pass at the park entrance with exact cash or via credit card using the posted QR Codes. The online purchased passes are only valid on the date purchased. Cost is $3 vehicle with up to 8 people or $2 person for anyone arriving to the park on foot or by bicycle.

The Savannas Preserve State Park Education Center is located at 2541 SE Walton Road in Port St. Lucie. For information about the Savannas and all of Floridas award-winning state parks, visit FloridaStateParks.org. To learn more about the Friends of Savannas, go to FriendsofSavannas.org.

 

****************************************

 

Salute our Troops Classic Car Show & Collection Drive for Forgotten Soldiers Outreach

Date: Saturday April 30, 2022

Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Location: B & A Flea Market

Address: 2885 US-1, Stuart, FL 34994

Price: FREE

Category: Auto / Motorsports

Classic Car Show and Oldies By Lew

Collecting Much Needed Care Package Items for Forgotten Soldiers Outreach to be included in monthly “We Care” packages!

Please stop by and enjoy your day at B&A Flea Market and check out the amazing classic cars, and drop off care package items to any of the vendors or at the office!

Help us let our troops know they are not forgotten!

https://www.forgottensoldiers.org/evrplus_registration/?action=evrplusegister&event_id=72

 

****************************************

 

Indian River Marine Flea Market

Date: Saturday April 30, 2022 through Sunday May 1, 2022.

Time: All Day Event

Location: Indian River Fairgrounds

Address: 7858 58th Ave

Price: $7.00

Category: Festival

One of the highlights to this years event is the Fishing Show featuring seminars and interactive attractions. Fishing displays and commercial marine vendors will fill the 17,600 sq ft air-conditioned expo center and open-air pavilion. They will be on hand to demonstrate and answer any of your fishing related and boating lifestyle questions. Many of the exhibitors will have the latest rods, reels and lures on hand for sale. A wide variety of salt and freshwater fishing tackle will be on display for anglers looking for great buys. New, used, antique, custom fishing and boating items will be available to all. 95% of boats in the water in the United States are less than 26 ft long, boats that can be pulled by vehicles to local waterways and there are many choices for buyers. Local boat dealers with fishing boats will be on hand to assist the visitors with information about the right boat for them.

https://flnauticalfleamarket.com/vero-bch-marine-flea-mkt

US pending home sales suffer fifth straight month of decline

Home sales based on contract signings fell to a two-year low in March, suggesting a slower pace of housing activity as interest rates and home prices surge to record highs.

Pending home sales dipped 1.2% month over month to 103.7 – marking the fifth consecutive monthly decline and the lowest level since May 2020, according to the National Association of Realtors. Year over year, contract signings sank 8.2%.

“The falling contract signings are implying that multiple offers will soon dissipate and be replaced by much calmer and normalized market conditions,” said NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun. “As it stands, the sudden large gains in mortgage rates have reduced the pool of eligible homebuyers, and that has consequently lowered buying activity. The aspiration to purchase a home remains, but the financial capacity has become a major limiting factor.”

According to Yun’s projections, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate will likely hit 5.3% by the fourth quarter before reaching 5.4% by 2023. He expects inflation to average 8.2% in 2022 but start moderating to 5.5% in the second half of this year. Unemployment rates will average 3.7%, Yun estimated, and GDP growth to accelerate by 2.8%.

As of March, higher mortgage rates and persistent price growth have driven an annual increase of 31% in mortgage payments.

“Overall existing-home sales this year look to be down 9% from the heated pace of last year,” Yun said. “Home prices are in no danger of decline on a nationwide basis, but the price gains will steadily decelerate such that the median home price in 2022 will likely be up 8% from last year.”

Costs have also pushed monthly rental payments up. Yun predicts this will lead to more renters exploring homeownership.

“Fast-rising rents will encourage renters to consider buying a home, though higher mortgage rates will present challenges,” Yun said. “Strong rent growth nonetheless will lead to a boom in multifamily housing starts, with more than 20% growth this year. I expect that to result in a boost to construction of less than 5%.”

 

By Candyd Mendoza – 28 Apr 2022

Sellers Expect Offers Above Asking Price

Homeowners have seen the news headlines, and they believe if they sell now, they should get top dollar—and beyond—for their home. About 43% of sellers recently surveyed say they expect their home to sell over the asking price, according to a new survey of 1,000 homeowners conducted by Clever Real Estate

More than a quarter of sellers—28%—expect to receive an offer on the first day the home is listed. Fifty-three percent anticipate an offer within a month.

The following chart shows sellers’ top expectations for a home sale.

 

What do you expect to happen during your home sale?

In a separate survey conducted recently by the real estate referral site HomeLight, homeowners also showed great expectations for the sale of their homes. About half of home sellers surveyed said they expected to retain 30% or more of the sale price of their homes. Eighty-seven percent of sellers surveyed also expected to receive more than one offer on their home. Fifty-two percent expect to receive four or more offers. Read more: Equity Motivates More Sellers

 

Source: “Role of the REALTOR® in 2022: Expectations and Misconceptions,” Clever Real Estate (April 18, 2022)

DOJ ISSUES WEB ACCESSIBILITY GUIDANCE

Justice Department Issues Web Accessibility Guidance Under the Americans with Disabilities Act

 

The Department of Justice published guidance today on web accessibility and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It explains how state and local governments (entities covered by ADA Title II) and businesses open to the public (entities covered by ADA Title III) can make sure their websites are accessible to people with disabilities in line with the ADA’s requirements.

The guidance discusses a range of topics, including the importance of web accessibility, barriers that inaccessible websites create for some people with disabilities, when the ADA requires web content to be accessible, tips on making web content accessible and other information and resources. The guidance offers plain language and user-friendly explanations to ensure that it can be followed by people without a legal or technical background.

“We have heard the calls from the public on the need for more guidance on web accessibility, particularly as our economy and society become increasingly digitized,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This guidance will assist the public in understanding how to ensure that websites are accessible to people with disabilities. People with disabilities deserve to have an equal opportunity to access the services, goods and programs provided by government and businesses, including when offered or communicated through websites.”

Finally, the guidance reviews the department’s ongoing work to advance website accessibility for people with disabilities through statements of interest and enforcement matters. For example, the department recently entered into numerous settlements with businesses — including Hy-Vee, Inc., The Kroger Co., Meijer, Inc., and Rite Aid Corporation to ensure that websites for scheduling vaccine appointments are accessible.

The full guidance is available here.

To learn more about the department’s disability rights work, please visit www.ADA.gov.

Action Steps to Take Against Appraisal Bias

Work is underway on multiple fronts to quash bias in the appraisal process. If you see an issue, you can speak up, too.

Lee Davenport became a real estate professional in 2008. Since then, she says, not a year has gone by when racial bias in an appraisal wasn’t suspected by one of her clients or one of the agents she coaches.

“With this hot market, on the sales side, it’s glaring if the appraisal comes in low for people of color,” says Davenport.

Multiple news stories have examined potential bias in appraisals, reporting cases in which Black homeowners’ valuation came in low, only to increase in a second appraisal after all personally identifiable photos and cultural items were removed.

In September 2021, a Freddie Mac report found that appraisal values are more likely to fall below the contracted sales price in Black and Latino neighborhoods than in predominantly White areas. An evaluation of 12 million appraisals found that 12.5% of properties in Black census tracts and 15.4% in predominantly Latino areas received appraisal values lower than the contract price, compared to 7.4% for those in White neighborhoods.

Then, in December, the Federal Housing Finance Agency released a report, after examining millions of agency property valuations, that found thousands of potential bias cases related to neighborhood descriptions written by appraisers. The report cited examples where appraisers referenced the neighborhood’s racial makeup or the percentage of the local population who were immigrants. In February, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), chair of the House Financial Services Committee, sent a letter to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Appraisal Subcommittee, the Appraisal Foundation, and the Appraisal Institute calling for an investigation. Meanwhile, HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge chairs the Interagency Task Force on Property Appraisal and Valuation Equity (PAVE), created in June 2021 to address discrimination in the appraisal and homebuying process.

Industry Response

The Appraisal Foundation, which sets congressionally authorized standards and qualifications for real estate appraisers, now requires that appraisers take a seven-hour course focused on fair housing laws and bias. And the Appraisal Institute recently added a five-hour seminar focused on addressing unconscious bias, updated its code of ethics, and created a practice guide affirming that appraisers should ignore ethnographic and other personal characteristic in property appraisals.

“We’re trying to create a more equitable housing environment in the country … and ensure unconscious bias doesn’t play a role in appraisals,” says Jody Bishop, 2022 president of the Appraisal Institute and senior managing partner of Valbridge Property Advisors in Mount Pleasant, S.C.

One way to combat bias is to foster diversity in the industry, says Corey Hammonds, founder and CEO of The Hammonds Group in Nashville, Tenn. In 2016, Hammonds became the youngest African American certified general appraiser in the state of Tennessee.

“It’s an unintended lack of access. Many don’t know what appraisals are and what they do,” says Hammonds. “The qualifications to become an appraiser are very expensive. And people tend to deal with who they know, and if you’re not well connected, it’s a hard industry to tap into.”

There are 78,000 appraisers in the U.S., of whom 85% identify as White and 77% as male, according to The Appraisal Institute. The institute is partnering with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the National Urban League in an appraiser diversity initiative, reaching out to more diverse candidates and educating them about the appraisal profession.

The National Association of REALTORS® has its own diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative, including a mentoring program known as NAR Spire. NAR also worked with the Biden administration on the PAVE Action Plan, released in March, which provides 21 recommendations for both improving government oversight of the appraisal industry and working with federal agencies and stakeholders to educate consumers on how to recognize and report potential instances of appraisal bias. The action plan also suggests developing procedures to ensure automated valuation models do not incorporate bias in their estimations of value.

… appraisal values are more likely to fall below the contracted sales price in Black and Latino neighborhoods than in predominantly White areas.

—Freddie Mac report, 2021

 

What Salespeople Can Do

Real estate professionals can play a major role in combating racial bias by identifying red flags and taking recourse on behalf of their clients. Hammonds says agents should equip their buyers and sellers with knowledge about the appraisal process. Often, marginalized borrowers, including those in the Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous communities, have not had models of homeownership. “They might not know they can dispute an appraisal or steps they can take to request a second one,” says Tai Christensen, diversity, equity & inclusion officer at CBC Mortgage Agency, an FHA specialist whose mission is to help erase the racial disparity in real estate.“We lean into homeownership education, and our prospective buyers are taught about appraisals and appraisal bias and what that means.”

Davenport suggests asking lenders about their policies for handling racial bias in appraisals.

In another proactive move, agents can present comparable sales and facts about the house, including a list of recent updates and repairs. “I accept any information that a homeowner or agent gives me. It’s helpful,” Bishop says. “If an appraiser rejects it, that would be a red flag to me.”

If you still believe an appraiser has reached a conclusion that’s inaccurate or biased, the Appraisal Institute’s site outlines steps for reconsideration of value. Beyond that, agents who suspect bias can work with their client to file a report with their state housing authorities or a federal agency like HUD, says LendingTree Senior Economic Analyst Jacob Channel. “The Federal Trade Commission provides a good resource for how to spot mortgage discrimination and what those impacted by it can do in response,” he adds.

“I believe overwhelmingly there are more people today committed to listening, learning, and changing,” Bishop says.

 

Erica Christoffer, Contributing Editor – Erica Christoffer is a multimedia journalist and contributing editor with REALTOR® Magazine. In addition to writing print and online articles, Erica oversees the magazine’s Broker to Broker content, co-manages the 30 Under 30 program, and manages the YPN Lounge. Connect with her via email: echristoffer@nar.realtor.

Weekend Events

The Pineapple Playhouse Presents: In the Heat of the Night

 

Date: Thursday April 21, 2022 through Sunday May 8, 2022.

Time: 8:00 pm

Location: Pineapple Playhouse

Address: 700 W. Weatherbee Road

Price: $20

Category: Theatre / Dance

In the Heat of the Night was published in 1965 against the backdrop of the American civil rights movement. Set in North Carolina, the story follows a black California detective who is asked to help local police force investigate a murder. Directed by Jack Krantz.

****************************************

“Bee Well” Health & Wellness Expo

Date: Event occurs every Friday of every month.

Time: All Day Event

Location: Port St. Lucie Community Center

Address: 2195 SW Airoso Blvd.

Price: free

Category: Health

Free Educational Workshops all day. For every 3 donated food items for Treasure Coast Food Bank receive a free raffle ticket & coupon for free appetizer at Texas Roadhouse. Storytime & character appearance for the kids.

****************************************

ZAM Fest – Zen, Arts & Music

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center

Date: Saturday April 23, 2022 through Sunday April 24, 2022.

Location: MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center

Address: 9221 SE Event Center Pl, Port St. Lucie , FL, 34952

Category: Festival

The City of Port St. Lucie is partnering with the St. Lucie Cultural Alliance to create ZAM Fest, a FREE celebration of arts and music, taking place on April 23rd-24th, 2022 at the MIDFLORIDA Event Center. Presented by Riverland and Mattamy Homes, this outdoor event will highlight a variety of art, wellness experiences, and musical performances from headliners Diamond Rio, Tone Loc, and Tag Team. Multicultural artists from local and regional bands including Reggae Rainfall Band, The Groove Soul Band, and Tomasito Cruz Band among others, will be showcasing a variety of genres from Reggae, Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Calypso, Country, Pop, and Hip Hop – all presented by Latin, Caribbean, and Brazilian performers.

Diamond Rio – Saturday, Apr. 23; Tag Team & Tone Loc – Sunday, Apr. 24. Also featuring: Rainfall Reggae Band, The Groove Soul Band, and Tomasito Cruz, Food Trucks, Kid’s Zone, and Vendor Fair.

Co-Sponsored by: Kolter Homes | Akel Homes | Sina Companies | Walmart DC 7038 | Tambone Companies

Friends of the Festival: Braden Real Estate | Carr, Riggs and Ingram | Cotleur Hearing | Florida Power & Light | Nature’s Keeper | Southern Eagle Distributing | Urban Air Adventure Park, Port St. Lucie.

For more information, visit www.zamfestpsl.com

https://www.cityofpsl.com/government/departments/midflorida-credit-union-event-center/zam-fest

 

****************************************

 

H.A.L.O.s Chase Your Tail 5K

Date: Saturday April 23, 2022

Time: 7:30 am – 11:00 am

Location: Sebastian Community Center

Address: 1805 N Central Avenue, Sebastian, FL 32958

Price: $30

Category: Fund Raiser

Join H.A.L.O. for our 5th Annual Chase Your Tail 5K Run/Walk to raise awareness for no-kill animal rescue! This event is for runners, walkers, and their dogs. The event will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2022.

The race will begin at Sebastians Community Center at 7:30 am, registration begins at 6:30 am. We travel along the beautiful and panoramic Indian River. Participants will enjoy music and entertainment before and after the race, as well as an energy-infusing breakfast bar. $30 for individuals and $25 pack price.

https://halorescuefl.org/life-saving-center/chase-your-tail-5k/

 

****************************************

 

Plants in the Park

Date: Saturday April 23, 2022

Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Location: Garden Club of Ft. Pierce/Glidden Park

Address: 911 Parkway Drive, Ft. Pierce

Category: Sale

Spruce Up for Spring!

The Garden Club of Fort Pierces annual Plants in the Park Sale is a wonderful way for you to spruce up your gardens for spring while contributing to the Fort Pierce community. Plan on joining us for this once a year sale! Plants in the Park takes place at the Garden Center Club House in Glidden Park located at the corner of South 10th Street and Georgia Avenue in Ft. Pierce. It is on Saturday, April 23rd and is open from 9 am to 2 pm. Most plants are priced under $10. All proceeds will benefit Fort Pierce community projects. See our Facebook page for more information.

****************************************

Science Saturday

Date: Saturday April 23, 2022

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Location: FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center

Address: 5600 N US Highway 1, Fort Pierce FL 34946

Price: Free

Category: Educational

Join us at the Ocean Discovery Visitors Center for a fun-filled, outdoor event. Bring the whole family and learn from our experts while participating in a variety of exciting, interactive activities!

Ocean Discovery Visitors Center

 

****************************************

 

St Lucie Earth Day

Oxbow Eco-Center

Date: Saturday April 23, 2022

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Location: Oxbow Eco-Center

Address: 5400 NE St. James Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL, 34983

Category: Educational

St Lucie Earth Day Festival over 70 exhibitors with hands on activities , Eco art, Live Animal Shows, Nature, and Food & Dessert Trucks

http://stlucieearthday.com

 

****************************************

 

Discover Your American Revolution Patriot

Date: Saturday April 23, 2022

Time: 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Location: Cummings Library of Palm City

Address: 2551 SW Matheson Ave, Palm City

Price: free

Category: Community

Golden Opportunity to learn if you have a Patriot in your family who served during the American Revolution 1776-1783. The 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence is 2026.

The program is Free and Open to the Public. It is being hosted and presented by the DAR – Daughters of the American Revolution – local Halpatiokee Chapter.

No reservation is needed, just arrive by Sat., April 23rd at 10:30 am.

ST. LUCIE MEDIAN HOME PRICE HITS $370,000

Just in! March 2022 released from Florida Realtors® detailing recent real estate activity in St. Lucie County. The reports compare year-over-year data. Here are statistics on single family homes.

---

layout-caption-below
design-layout-inline
combination-animation-none
individual-animation-none
individual-text-animation-none
sqs-narrow-width" data-test="image-block-inline-outer-wrapper">

has-aspect-ratio
">

“St. Lucie County’s median home price hit $370,000 in March! This is the highest price we’ve seen this year as prospective buyers from all over the world continue to demand housing in St. Lucie County. Homes are selling at an astonishing rate, sitting roughly 9 days on the market before going under contract,” said Carlos A. Melendez, President of Broward, Palm Beaches & St. Lucie Realtors®.

Median Sale Price is our preferred summary statistic for price activity because, unlike Average Sale Price, Median Sale Price is not sensitive to high sale prices for small numbers of homes that may not be characteristic of the market area.

“Meanwhile, inventory continues to dip. The number of listings decreased 22.4 percent to 594, bringing our months’ supply of inventory down to 0.9 months. If you’re thinking about buying a home, start a conversation with a local Realtor® today. It’s no secret that interest rates are starting to rise, but that doesn’t necessarily mean homeownership is out of reach. Realtors® are here to help you find your dream home at a number that works for you,” continues Melendez.

Median Supply of Inventory is a useful indicator of market conditions. The benchmark for a balanced market (favoring neither buyer nor seller) is 5.5 months of inventory. Anything higher is traditionally a buyers’ market, and anything lower is a seller’s market.

March Market Reports: Single Family | Townhouses/Condos

 

 

Broward, Palm Beaches & St. Lucie Realtors® is the 3rd largest local Realtor® association in the nation, representing over 40,000 Realtors®, 41,000 MLS subscribers, and 5 regional boards across South Florida & the Treasure Coast. For more info, visit Rworld.com or contact Communications@rworld.com.

Homeowner Groups Try To Block Investor Buying Sprees

Homeowner associations across the country are rewriting rules to try to prevent investors from purchasing housing in their neighborhoods, The Wall Street Journal reports. Some homeowner association groups are concerned that an uptick in homes purchased by investors could lead to a decline in property maintenance and make their neighborhoods less desirable. They also argue that investors are preventing more families from being able to buy houses.

Homeowner associations believe they have the power to stop them. As such, some housing groups are attempting to cap the number of homes that can be rented out in a neighborhood. They may require rental tenants to be approved by the association’s board.

One such move was taken in Walkertown, N.C., where the Whitehall Village Master Homeowner Association is trying to amend its rules to require that new buyers live in a home or they must leave it vacant for six months before they can rent it out. That would prevent investors from purchasing any more homes in the neighborhood.

“They’re coming in and they’re basically bullying people out with cash offers,” Chase Berrier, the association’s president, told The Wall Street Journal about the movement.

In Fishers, Ind., a town of about 100,000, more than 900 homes were purchased by non-owner occupants between 2016 to 2021. About one-third of the home purchases were from out-of-state investors, The Wall Street Journal reports. The mayor of the town says it’s “denying an entire group of individuals an opportunity to build equity” in the town by being shut out by investors.

Trying to capture the hot housing market, investors have increased their buying activity. Single-family rentals have become a huge growth area, too. More than one in five home sales in December 2021 were investor purchases, according to CoreLogic housing data.

As more homeowner associations take steps to try to ban renters, investors aren’t happy. The homeowner associations’ actions also are attracting lawmakers’ attention in many states as they debate how much power homeowner associations should have in limiting renters in their neighborhoods.

“The only real purpose of restricting rentals in a given community is to keep renters out, actions which in our view are both harmful and dangerous,” David Howard, executive director of the National Rental Home Council, told The Wall Street Journal.

3 Easy Houseplants Can Instantly Reduce Air Pollutant by Up to 20%

Corn plant (Dracaena fragrans); Massangeana, CC license

Ordinary potted house plants can potentially make a significant contribution to reducing air pollution in homes and offices.

That’s according to new research led by the University of Birmingham and in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

During a series of experiments monitoring common houseplants exposed to nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)—a common pollutant—researchers calculated that in some conditions, the plants could be able to reduce NO₂ by as much as 20 percent.

The researchers tested three houseplants commonly found in homes, easy to maintain and not overly expensive to buy. They included the peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii), corn plant (Dracaena fragrans), and fern arum (Zamioculcas zamiifolia).

Each plant was put, by itself, into a test chamber containing levels of NO₂ comparable to an office situated next to a busy road.

Over a period of one hour, the team calculated that all the plants, regardless of species, were able to remove around half the NO₂ in the chamber. The performance of the plants was not dependent on the plants’ environment, for example whether it was in light or dark conditions, and whether the soil was wet or dry.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii) by Rui Silvestre

Peace lily W.carter, CC license

Lead researcher Dr Christian Pfrang said, “The plants we chose were all very different from each other, yet they all showed strikingly similar abilities to remove NO₂ from the atmosphere. This is very different from the way indoor plants take up CO₂ in our earlier work, which is strongly dependent on environmental factors such as night time or daytime, or soil water content.”

The team also calculated what these results might mean for a small office (15 m³) and a medium-sized office (100 m³) with different levels of ventilation. In a poorly ventilated small office with high levels of air pollution, they calculated that five houseplants would reduce NO₂levels by around 20 per cent. In the larger space, the effect would be smaller— 3.5 per cent, though this effect would be increased by adding more plants.

While the effects of the plants in reducing NO₂ are clear, the precise mechanism by which they do this remain a mystery. Dr Pfrang added, “We don’t think the plants are using the same process as they do for CO₂ uptake, in which the gas is absorbed through stomata— tiny holes—in the leaves.

There was no indication, even during longer experiments, that our plants released the NO₂ back into the atmosphere, so there is likely a biological process taking place also involving the soil the plant grows in—but we don’t yet know what that is.”

Dr Tijana Blanusa, principal horticultural scientist at the RHS and one of the researchers involved in the study said, “This complements RHS efforts to understand scientific detail behind what we know to be a popular passion. Understanding the limits of what we can expect from plants helps us plan and advise on planting combinations that not only look good but also provide an important environmental service.”

Fern arum (Zamioculcas zamiifolia); Mokkie, CC license

In the next phase of the research, the team will be designing sophisticated tools for modelling air quality indoors encompassing a much wider range of variables.

The new project, funded by the British Met Office, will use mobile air quality measuring instruments to identify pollutants and test their effects in both residential and office spaces, producing a wealth of data to inform the tool’s development.

All in all, it sounds as though—if you haven’t yet joined in on the potted plants trend, maybe it’s time you tried?

 

This research has been published in Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health.  / Source: University of Birmingham

US home prices are rising so fast, property taxes can't keep up

With home prices skyrocketing by double-digit percentages over the last year, it would be no surprise if property taxes jumped too.

ut surprisingly, the average property tax on a single-family home rose by just 1.8% last year to $3,785, increasing at the smallest pace in the past five years, according to a report from ATTOM, a real estate data company. That has resulted in an effective tax rate of 0.9%, down from 1.1% in 2020, the report found.

But this small silver lining in the housing market may not last long. Home prices may have risen so fast that taxes are still catching up, said Rick Sharga, executive vice president of market intelligence at ATTOM.

“It’s hardly a surprise that property taxes increased in 2021, a year when home prices across the country rose by 16%,” Sharga said. “In fact, the real surprise is that the tax increases weren’t higher, which suggests that tax assessments are lagging behind rising property values, and will likely continue to go up in 2022.”

That means bigger jumps in property taxes could be coming in years ahead.

In 2021, effective tax rates — a measure of taxes relative to a home’s value — declined, even as total taxes rose because home values went up much more quickly than taxes did, the report found.

Home values spiked by more than 10% in many markets across the country. Property taxes that are still lagging behind these spikes in prices should be something for new buyers to keep in mind.

“Prospective homeowners often fail to include property taxes when considering the cost of homeownership,” Sharga said. “But, especially in some of the higher-priced markets across the country, property taxes can add thousands of dollars to annual ownership costs, and possibly be the difference between someone being able to afford a home or not.”

Who pays the highest property taxes

New Jersey’s average tax of $9,476 on a single-family-home was the highest in the country last year. It was about 10 times more than the average of $901 in West Virginia, which had the nation’s smallest average tax.

Other states with the biggest average tax bills were Connecticut at $7,464, Massachusetts at $6,777, New Hampshire at $6,698 and New York at $6,617.

Rounding out the bottom five were Alabama at $905, Arkansas at $1,195, Mississippi at $1,243 and Louisiana at $1,248.

Last year, the states with the highest effective tax rate — the average annual property tax as a percentage of the average estimated market value of homes in each area — were Illinois, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont and Pennsylvania.

At the city level, most of the highest taxes were paid by residents of Northeastern and Midwestern metro areas.

Looking at cities with more than 1 million people, Rochester, New York, had the highest effective tax rate of 2.22%, followed by Hartford, Connecticut; Chicago; Philadelphia and Cleveland.

Among places with the lowest effective rates were Honolulu; Montgomery and Tuscaloosa, Alabama; and Prescott, Arizona.

The report analyzed property tax data collected from county tax assessor offices nationwide, along with estimated market values of single-family homes determined using an automated valuation model.

Upcoming Events This Weekend

Protect Your A/C Unit and Beat The Heat Lecture

St. Lucie County

Date: 15th of every month.

Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: St Lucie AC Repair Pros HQ

Address: 145 NW Central Park Plaza #199 Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

Price: FREE

Category: Community

St Lucie AC Repair Pros invites you to an ongoing series of special lectures. We will be discussing the current problems of air conditioning and heat issues in Port St Lucie. We will talk about how to prevent common problems, and how to properly give maintenance to your A/C unit. Join us as we interact, share ideas and special tips.

AC Repair in Port St Lucie

 

****************************************

 

Good Friday Art Show “MARY & JESUS”

Date: Friday April 15, 2022

Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: RCK Gallery

Address: 614 South Colorado Ave., Stuart, Florida 34994

Price: FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Category: Arts / Exhibits

Robert Clay Kanzler will be displaying a remarkable grouping of original oil paintings on Good Friday, April 15TH between 4-7 PM.

The powerful exhibition titled “Mary & Jesus” is FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

Read what one viewer had to say about his experience with the exhibition:I recently had the decided good fortune to view Clay Kanzler’s ” Mary & Jesus” exhibit at the new and warmly received RCK Gallery in Stuart. I realized upon entering that there was a palpable atmosphere of contemplation in every corner of the gallery. I noticed a very still and quiet observer with wet eyes on the verge of release…with good reason. I sensed I would be joining her soon, and indeed I did.

There are a multitude of layers in every piece of art that Clay gives to the world. His works are traditionally large format because the heart rendered emotions that appear on the canvas are mined from an infinite vein. Clay uses his art to help him understand trials, trauma, and tragedy that cross his path. He does so unselfishly and without limitations. He does so with the unexpressed desire to heal and to bring hope and healing to others. The energy and experiences he shares in his art are complex and compelling, and you should be prepared to be moved. You can also safely prepare yourself to be healed because hope for tomorrow is the most resounding message that radiates from Clay’s work.

Taking this show in on Easter weekend felt about the same as flying first-class. The journey is the same, but the experience was heightened. Please understand that your personal beliefs will in no way mitigate the power of the moment. This show is compact with a significant impact. Exactly the way it was destined to be.R. Edwards

For more information Follow @RCKArtGallery or call 772-403-3153

@RCKARTGALLERY

 

****************************************

 

Blowing Rocks Preserve Evening Shoreline Cleanup

Date: Event occurs the third Friday of every month.

Time: 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Location: Blowing Rocks Preserve

Address: 574 S. Beach Road

Price: Free

Category: Community

FREE family-friendly volunteer opportunity! Enjoy a self-guided evening stroll in the outdoors through the trails and beaches of Blowing Rocks Preserve to collect debris that has been washed ashore or left behind. Your contribution helps to beautify our beaches and prevent wildlife disasters. Volunteers will be instructed by preserve staff upon arrival and given collection supplies.

Advance registration is required, and space is limited to a maximum of 18 attendees. Please note that all youth under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/volunteer-and-attend-events/find-local-events-and-opportunities/florida-blowing-rocks-shoreline-cleanup/

 

****************************************

 

Tipsey Turtle 2 mile race

Date: Saturday April 16, 2022

Time: 8:00 am – 11:00 am

Location: Sexton Plaza Vero Beach

Address: 1050 Beachland Blvd Vero Beach 32963

Price: Free and $30.00 For race participants

Category: Fund Raiser

Tipsy Turtle 2 Mile Run/Walk- April 16th

Tipsy Turtle is one of our main events of the year. This fun run fundraiser is designed to involve people of all ages in CCincs mission to protect coastal habitats for sea turtle survival. Starting at Oceangrill and Mulligans, this race will begin at 8am and continue with educational activities happening all morning long.

tipsyturtle@coastal-connections.org

 

****************************************

 

Treasure Coast Eggstreme Easter Egg Drop

Date: Saturday April 16, 2022

Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Location: Pathway Church

Address: 1105 58th Avenue Vero Beach FL 32966

Price: FREE

Category: Arts / Exhibits

Join us on Saturday, April 16th at 10am for the Treasure Coast Eggstreme Easter egg Drop! Not only will there be food trucks, music, games, and more, but did we mention there will be 50,000 EGGS DROPPED BY HELICOPTER?! For more information and to register, visit www.treasurecoasteggdrop.com

Treasure Coast Eggstreme Egg Drop

 

****************************************

 

Guided Park Excursion: Flatwoods

Date: Sunday April 17, 2022

Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Location: Savannas Preserve State Park Main Entrance

Address: 2541 SE Walton Road, Port St Lucie, FL 34952

Price: $3/vehicle

Category: Educational

Traverse the park with a park naturalist as your guide! Hike up to one mile of trails while experiencing the beautiful sights and sounds of the flatwoods and freshwater marsh of the Savannas Preserve State Park. Reservations required. Free with paid park admission fee of $3 per vehicle. You can purchase a one day pass online by visiting the official Florida State Park website or you can purchase your pass at the park entrance with exact cash or via credit card using the posted QR Codes. The group will meet at 9 am at the Savannas Preserve State Park Education Center Pavilion in the paved parking lot located at 2541 SE Walton Road, Port St Lucie, FL 34952.

Census: Measuring America

Census data tells an interesting story about our increasingly multicultural country.

 

Over the last decade, the United States grew at its slowest rate since the 1930s, and minorities made up almost all of that population growth. These shifts aren’t surprising. The 2020 census bears out what demographers have been predicting for years. Between 2010 and 2020, Asian Americans experienced the highest population gains (36%) followed by Hispanic (23%) and Black (6%) Americans. In contrast, the White population dropped by 9% from 2010, increasing the overall racial and ethnic diversity of the country. Since this is the first time in U.S. history the census has shown an actual decline in the White population, a more thorough analysis of the recently released census data is needed. The actual story is more complicated.

At a first look, the “White alone” population accounted for 62% of all people living in the U.S., compared with 72% in 2010. White alone refers to people who identified themselves or other members of their household as solely White and not Hispanic. Nevertheless, the “White in combination” population surged 316% during the same period. These are people who identified with the White category and one or more other groups.

Why This Is Happening Now

First, the U.S. Census Bureau has warned that comparisons between 2020 census and 2010 census race data should be made with caution. That’s because the design of the questions for race and ethnicity changed. The Census Bureau also changed how responses were processed and coded. Thus, the change is not solely the result of changing demographics.

Second, intermarriage is playing a role. Simply, more White Americans are marrying and having children with someone of another race or ethnicity. Indeed, the data shows a significant decline in the number of White alone kids over the last decade. Among those 18 and older, the number of people who said they were White alone decreased by 5%. By contrast, the number of White alone individuals under 18 decreased by 20%. This may reflect a rising demographic trend in the decades ahead.

In the meantime, the White population is older than other groups and aging faster. For instance, 18% of White Americans are 65 and older compared with only 12% of Black Americans and just 8% of Hispanic Americans. An older population typically translates to lower birth rates and higher death rates, contributing to a slower growth of the population. Given the trend, the White population is likely to decrease even further in the coming years.

Local Population Changes

At the local level, the census data shows substantial variations across the country. During the last decade, 70% of metro areas experienced White population losses, including high-cost areas such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

California and Texas had the most metro areas with the largest losses in White alone population. For instance, the number of White alone Americans fell by 56% in McAllen, Texas, and 31% in the Los Angeles metro area. But this decrease in White population has a corollary: These areas are also among the fastest-growing multiracial areas. For example, the White in combination population is 34 times larger in McAllen, Texas, in 2020 than it was in 2010.

Most of the metro areas that gained White population from 2010 to 2020 are located in the Carolinas, reflecting a general shift of the population. The White population rose 78% in Myrtle Beach, S.C.-N.C.; 38% in Charlotte, N.C.-S.C.; 36% in Greenville, S.C.; 36% in Winston, N.C.; and nearly 20% in the Charleston, S.C., and Durham, N.C., metro areas. But these increases don’t reflect a decrease in diversity. In fact, non-White groups show roughly similar migration patterns. For instance, the Black population increased 42% in Myrtle Beach and 38% in Charlotte.

Why It Matters to Real Estate

Shifts in the demographics of a nation can have a large impact on the real estate market. Population changes lead to changing demand for housing. In the future, expect to see homeownership rates of fast-growing minority groups increase across the country, easing the homeownership rate gap between the White and minority population. Currently, minority households living in areas with a higher minority population are more likely to own a home than those living in other areas. In the future, minority groups will likely make gains in areas where their numbers are increasing. Time will show how the typical home buyer will change in the years ahead.

 

by Nadia Evangelou

Biggest Obstacles Buyers Are Facing

The lack of affordable homes for sale is the top challenge home buyers face in the current market, but it’s not the only one, according to the 2022 Obstacles to Home Buying, a new study released by the National Association of REALTORS® and Morning Consult.

Finding homes that fit buyers’ criteria, competing with multiple offers, and saving for a down payment also were commonly cited challenges. Homebuying obstacles, however, can vary by race and ethnicity, the study finds.

For example, Hispanic buyers also cited difficulty saving for a down payment as a pressing challenge that has delayed homeownership for some buyers.

Black buyers cited lack of credit or credit issues as the main obstacles, as well as finding neighborhoods to which they were comfortable moving.

White and Asian potential buyers said a lack of homes that fit their criteria and competing with multiple offers were their top current obstacles in purchasing a home.

 

 

“Record-high home prices and record-low inventory have made the homebuying process exceedingly difficult,” says Jessica Lautz, NAR’s vice president of demographics and behavioral insights. “Our new study shows that while the inventory crisis is affecting potential buyers of every race, nearly all home buyers agree that homeownership is still an important part of the American dream.”

Indeed, among all races and ethnicities surveyed, a clear majority agreed that homeownership remains a part of the American dream.

But buying isn’t easy nowadays. About three-quarters of aspiring buyers surveyed say it will take them between six months and three years to save for a down payment.

While homeowners have enjoyed growing equity from rising home prices, buyers have faced plenty of hurdles. “The market becomes increasingly unaffordable, and the obstacles greater, for those trying to enter the market,” says Bryan Greene, NAR’s vice president of policy advocacy. “NAR advocates not only for existing homeowners but also for those aspiring homeowners whose entrance into the market is necessary for the economy to thrive.”

 

Source: “2022 Obstacles to Home Buying,” National Association of REALTORS® (April 12, 2022)

FAIR-HOUSING AD VIOLATIONS AREN’T ALWAYS OBVIOUS

Describe the property, not the potential buyer or tenant. “Ideal for empty nesters” or “perfect for students” raises red flags; “easy walk to train” does not.

 

Real estate professionals are legally obligated to uphold fair housing laws, and the language and images you use in advertising needs to be vetted carefully. Beyond the law, Realtors® also have an obligation to do so under Article 10 of the Realtor Code of Ethics.

“Advertisements should never indicate a preference or limitation based on a protected class, which at the federal level includes race, color, religion, sex, disability, family status and national origin,” says Mike Rohde, staff attorney at the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), in the latest “Window to the Law” video, Advertising Within the Fair Housing Framework.

“HUD recently expanded its interpretation of sex to include sexual orientation and gender identity, and state and local laws may expand the categories of protected classes further,” he adds.

Rohde provides a tip: When advertising a property, focus on describing the property – not the buyer or tenant. He cautions against using phrases like “ideal for empty nesters” or “perfect for students” that could raise red flags by implying a preference for one demographic over another.

On the other hand, he says phrases like “easy walk to train” or “beautiful Mexican doors” are likely acceptable since they describe the property’s characteristics.

Rohde says a similar rule of thumb applies when Realtors describe how they can help buyers or sellers – describe their services and not whom they want to serve. For example, it’s okay for agents to promote their fluency in a particular language or specialization, and the area of the community they serve. But they should avoid indicating a preference for or limitation to the clients they’ll serve, he says.

Real estate ads are judged using a reasonable person standard, which can evolve over time. Once-overlooked words and images, such as the Confederate flag, could create fair housing concerns nowadays.

April is Fair Housing Month, but NAR offers a suite of fair-housing resources and tools year-round on its website.

Source: NAR & Florida Realtors®

Many employees miss coworkers, work-life separation

Commuting costs and COVID safety still a major concern, however

 

It looks like many workers are becoming happier about returning to the workplace.

About 82% of those in the US expressed comfort in returning to the physical workplace, finds a recent survey from the Conference Board. This is up from 71% in January 2022.

But that return to the workplace may be helpful, considering that 58% of workers say their work-life integration increased during the pandemic.

“While remote work surely provides a desirable work-life balance for many, these results suggest that the lack of clear boundaries in many remote-work arrangements can fuel stress and burnout,” says Rebecca Ray, executive vice-president for human capital at the Conference Board.

More than half (51%) of those working remotely are also concerned about limited connection with their colleagues and 47% are worried about blurred work-life boundaries. Thirty-four% said they care about the constant expectation to be available while 32% are anxious about increased hours or workload.

Employees are feeling more isolated from their organizations amid the pandemic, found another report released in September 2021.

Nearly three-quarters (74 percent) agree with their organization that returning to the physical workplace will enhance networking opportunities and build relationships. More than seven in 10 also agree that it will increase collaboration (72%) and help maintain culture (70%).

 

Physical workspace worries

However, one third (33 percent) of those in the actual workplace are concerned about the increased time and cost to commute. This is much more common among Millennials (59%) than Gen X workers (31%) and Baby Boomers (30%). Women (43%) are also much more concerned about this than men (25%).

Also, 26% of those in the office are still concerned about exposure to COVID-19. Millennials (35%) and women (30%) also express greater consternation about this compared with their counterparts (19% of Gen X, 31% of Baby Boomers and 21% of men).

Meanwhile, more than 70% of workers in the IT sector will quit their job if their employer forces them to head back to the office, according to another survey.

And many hybrid workers share the same concerns as remote and on-site workers: 41% are concerned with blurred work-life boundaries; 39% worry about limited connection with colleagues; and 31% are concerned with the increased time and cost of commuting.

“Rather than assuming a return to the office will be the panacea, leaders can also be proactive in helping to set and maintain more definitive work boundaries in this new world of work,” says Ray.

Many workers overall, self-report decreased mental health (41%), decreased engagement and morale (38%) and increased burnout (41%), according to the Conference Board’s survey of more than 1,300 individuals – predominantly professional and office workers – from March 14 to 18.

Another report found that 73% of workers and leaders are calling to be measured by outcomes and results rather than hours spent working, but only 36% of managers are assessing performance based on results.

 

By John Dujay 10 Apr 2022

Your Weekend Guide

Robert Clay Kanzler Paintings on Vietnam

Date: Friday April 8, 2022

Time: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: RCK Gallery

Address: 614 South Colorado Ave, Stuart, Florida 34994

Price: FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Category: Arts / Exhibits

Robert Clay Kanzler Paintings on Vietnam Exhibition at RCK Gallery is an astonishing collection of Original Oil Paintings. Join us Friday Night for complementary wine & champagne and see for yourself why THE VETERANS VOICE & CONGRESSMAN BRIAN MAST have called the exhibition “GOD’S LIGHT INTO THE DARKNESS”. a “MUST SEE!” especially for veterans & friends.

@RCKARTGALLERY

 

****************************************

 

Free Relaxation Circle

Martin County

Date: Event occurs the second Friday of every month.

Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Location: Treasure Coast Holistic Health Center

Address: 524 SE Dixie Highway, Stuart, FL 34994

Price: Free

Category: Health

Join us to relax and unwind at a free relaxation circles. Certified Practitioners will share a variety of techniques that is sure to help calm the mind & help heal the soul. The night will include: beginner guided meditation, distance Reiki (a Japanese stress relief technique), easy breathing techniques that are specific for relaxation, and guided prompts which will help complete the experience. After join us for a cup to Alkaline water tea in our newly remolded tea bar. To provide you with the best experience, space is limited, please call or email to reserve. (772) 208-7688

Treasure Coast Holistic Health Center

 

****************************************

 

Terry Fator: It Starts Tonight

Sunrise Theatre

Date: Friday April 8, 2022

Time: 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Location: Sunrise Theatre

Address: 117 S. 2nd Street, Fort Pierce, FL, 34950

Price: Starting at $62.50

Category: Comedy

It took ventriloquist, singer, comedian and celebrity impressionist Terry Fator 32 years to become an overnight sensation when he won the hearts of America on Americas Got Talent in 2007. Get ready for non-stop laughs as Terry combines ventriloquism with singing celebrity impressions. Meet some of his puppets like Cowboy Walter, Emma Taylor and Winston the Impersonating Turtle.

Terry can impersonate over 100 voices. Watch in amazement as he effortlessly performs the singing styles of an eclectic group of stars including Tony Bennett, Elvis, Maroon 5, Garth Brooks, Etta James, Kermit The Frog, and more. This will be a night of hilarious, wholesome entertainment for the entire family as he dazzles everyone with his amazing talent!

https://www.sunrisetheatre.com/event/terry-fator-it-starts-tonight/

 

****************************************

 

Little River Band with opening act Wired Band

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center

Date: Saturday April 9, 2022

Time: 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm

Location: MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center

Address: 9221 SE Event Center Pl, Port St. Lucie , FL, 34952

Price: G.A. $40.45 Reserved $51.15

Category: Concert / Live Music

Dubbed the best singing band in the world by Eagles founding member the late Glenn Frey, Little River Band will be taking the MIDFLORIDA Event Center stage on Saturday, April 9, 2022. LRBs distinctive harmonies and smooth musical stylings earned chart-topping success throughout the 70s and 80s with hits that live on today, such as Reminiscing, Cool Change, Lonesome Loser, The Night Owls, Happy Anniversary and more. Inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame, Little River Band has sold over 30 million records worldwide. It continues to sell out shows from coast to coast, bringing vocal and musical energy to its timeless classic hits.

Arrive early to catch the Wired Band, Port St. Lucies classic and southern rock all-stars!

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. | Show starts at 7 p.m.

Please note:

This performance was rescheduled from its original date in November 2020. Any tickets that were previously purchased will automatically be transferred to the new show date.

This event will be hosted outdoors. Rain or Shine.

Buy Tickets

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center

 

****************************************

 

Yoga Fest

Date: Saturday April 9, 2022

Time: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Location: Memorial Park

Address: 300 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34994

Price: Free

Category: Arts / Exhibits

This is the first Yoga Fest to ever be held in Stuart. Join us for a day full of fun with free yoga demos every thirty minutes from a variety of yoga studios around town. Shop with local retail and food vendors alike!

https://cityofstuart.us/Calendar.aspx?EID=1354&month=4&year=2022&day=9&calType=0

 

****************************************

 

Sensory Friendly Day’s at the Museum!

The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

Date: Event occurs the second Sunday of every month.

Time: 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Location: The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

Address: 1707 NE Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach, FL, 34957

Category: Arts / Exhibits

Join The Childrens Museum for only $1 per person from 10 AM-11:30 AM.

Please keep in mind that registrations are required AHEAD OF TIME and we limit registrations at 75 people (including children) to respect the sensory friendly environment. The ship cannons, fire station lights, and other details in the museum are modified to aid in creating this environment as well.

http://www.childrensmuseumtc.org

 

****************************************

 

Port Saint Lucie Sports Cards & Collectibles Show

Date: Event occurs the second Sunday of every month.

Time: All Day Event

Location: St. Lucie Mets Convention Center

Address: 8555 Commerce Centre Dr.

Price: Free Admission

Category: Expo

The Port Saint Lucie Sports Cards & Collectibles Show is held on the 2nd Sunday every month at the St. Lucie Mets Convention Center at Barons Real Estate. 8555 Commerce Centre Dr. Port Saint Lucie, Florida 34986.

Show Hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Collectible Trading Cards & Memorabilia!

Baseball, Football, Other Sports, Comics & Non-Sports!

FREE ADMISSION!

BRING THE KIDS!