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Main Street Focus122 AE Backus Ave.Fort Pierce, FL 34950
PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE
PAIDWEST PALM BCH FLPERMIT NO 4595
Volume 13, No. 6 January, 2018
Treasure CoasTHisTory FesTival
A one-day celebration of historical events in St. Lucie, Martin and Indian River counties
“Adams Ranch — Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”Presentation January 13, 10:30 a.m. at the Sunrise Theatre Black Box
PHOTO COURTESY OF INDIAN RIVER MAGAZINE
See page 5
2 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 3
Happy New Year to all our volunteers,
members, supporters and loyal Focus read-
ers. We look forward our 30th year sup-
porting historic downtown Fort Pierce.
Our loyal members are an important
part of the organization. If you are not a
member I urge you to join today. There’s
much to be done planning, designing and implementing proj-
ects and we can’t do it without you! Your personal involvement
and membership commitment will help Main Street Fort Pierce accomplish goals, set new ones, and support downtown’s
economic well-being, revitalization and cultural vibrancy in
the very heart and soul of our downtown community.
Our volunteers are awesome. We are working on the Sandy Shoes Seafood & Brew to be held on Saturday, March 24,
2018. Numerous chairpersons and volunteers are needed.
Please call the Main Street office (772) 466-3880 to volunteer
for this event. Share your passion, ask a friend to volunteer!
Main Street has over 30 events each year that are designed to
bring people to downtown Fort Pierce. We couldn’t accomplish
this without our volunteers.
I wish all of you a healthy and prosperous 2018! ❖
by Sue Dannahower
Sue DannahowerPresident
Britt ReynoldsVice President
Patti CraftSecretary
Dave MillerTreasurer
Doris TillmanManager
Pam GilletteMarketing Manager
Mimi EwanFinance
Joanne BlandfordFocus Editor
Board of Directors
Phone: 772.466.3880 • www.mainstreetfortpierce.org
Pat AlleyJeremiah Johnson
Dana McSweeneyMichelle Miller-Morris
Anne SatterleeDonna Sizemore
2017 – 2018Officers, Board of Directors & Staff
Volume 13, No. 6 January 2018
Publisher Main Street Fort Pierce Inc.
Editor Joanne Blandford
Advertising Director Main Street Fort Pierce Inc.
Graphic Design Susan M. Roberts
Contributing Writers Joanne Blandford, Sue Dannahower, Pam Gillette, Michael Howard, Mayor Linda Hudson, Debra Magrann, Anne Satterlee, Holly Theuns, Doris Tillman
Photography John Culverhouse, Mary Ann KetchamCopyright © 2017 Main Street Focus Inc. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Main Street Fort Pierce. Contents may not be reproduced without prior written permission of Main Street Fort Pierce Inc., 122 AE Backus Ave., Fort Pierce, FL 34950. PHONE 772-466-3880 • FAX 772-466-3917 • [email protected].
Looking Forward to the Upcoming New Year in Historic Downtown
WITH THE MAYOR
Friday, January 19, at 8:00 a.m.
at Fort Pierce Yacht Club
700 N. Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce
Mayor Linda Hudson invites
you to join her for Community
News, Special Announcements,
Complementary Coffee, Orchid
Island Juice, Breakfast Treats,
and more!
HOSTED BYFort Pierce Yacht Club, Main Street Fort Pierce,
Orchid Island Juice Company, and The City of Fort Pierce. Call Main
Street Fort Pierce for more information at
772-466-3880.
Sponsored by New Horizons
January’s Fort Pierce Trolley ToursNEW this year! January’s tours will relay stories from The
Wild East – Tales from a Florida Frontier Town. The Wild East
tours include accounts of frontier crimes and justice along the
east coast of Florida and specifically Fort Pierce.
J A N U A R Y T O U R S
The Wild East – Life in a Florida Frontier Town
Tuesday, January 9 at 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.
Saturday, January 13 (during Treasure Coast History Festival)
at 1:00 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 25 at 9:30 & 11 a.m.
4 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 5
Treasure Coast History Festival to be Celebrated Downtown January 13An all-day festival featuring historical re-enactors, ghost
tours, historical trolley rides and sessions on historical topics,
will highlight this year’s Treasure Coast History Festival in
downtown Fort Pierce on Saturday, January 13.
The free festival will also feature historical presentations in
the Sunrise Theatre Black Box. The first session, on the his-
tory of the Adams Ranch, begins at 10:30 a.m. and features
brothers Lee, Mike and Robbie Adams. They will talk about
the ranch, beginning with its purchase by their grandfather in
1937, leading up to present day.
At 12:30 p.m., students from Indian River Charter High
School will present excerpts from “American Jazz,’’ a musical
based on the discovery of recent letters between Waldo Sexton
and author Zora Neale Hurston.
A session at 1:30 p.m. features experts who will address the
establishment of Fort Pierce as a military base in 1838, during
the Second Seminole War.
The festival
also features a fish
fry hosted by the
Summerlin Fam-
ily, the “first fam-
ily of fishing” on
the Treasure Coast.
The fish fry, which
begins at 11 a.m., is $12 per plate and includes fish, cole slaw,
baked beans and hush puppies. An outdoor session on the
Summerlin family’s fishing history begins at noon.
Throughout the day, beginning at 9 a.m., downtown will
come alive with historical re-enactors ranging from early set-
tlers to Seminole War soldiers who will depict life on the Trea-
sure Coast in the 1800s. An early cow camp set up by seventh-
generation cattleman Rick Modine and his aunt, Joyce Teague,
will also be on display.
Trolley tours that take participants to significantly impor-
tant historical sites in Fort Pierce are scheduled for 1 and
2:30 p.m. For required reservations for the trolley tours, call
772.466.3880.
Free historical ghost tours led by paranormal investigator
Larry Lawson will also be held throughout the day. Registra-
tion for those tours are taken on the day of the festival.
Additional outdoor exhibitions feature a history of treasure
hunting the on the Treasure Coast, local railway history, a his-
tory of the St. Lucie County Fair, a history of the architecture
of William Hatcher, and a display on the Florida Heritage
Trail, which highlights significant historical sites in the state.
An “Authors Alley” will also be set up, featuring local authors
Allen Balough, Rick Crary, Terry Howard, Erin Lomax, O.C.
Peterson, Dana Philips and Jean Ellen Wilson. Books on Trea-
sure Coast history will also be available from the Florida Clas-
sics Library and books on A.E. Backus and the Highwaymen
will be available from the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery.
In addition to the all-day celebration in Fort Pierce, the
Treasure Coast History Festival has also expanded to an
Calendar
Continued on page 6 …
Get the DISTRX app for all the latest downtown
specials and events!
MONTHLY EVENTS
January 5, Friday: FRIDAY FEST — 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. at Marina Square & Melody Lane; Live music by Anderson Council; Main Street Fort Pierce, 466-3880; www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
January 6 & 7, Saturday & Sunday: PARTNERS IN COMMAND BOATING COURSE by St. Lucie Power Squadron — 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.; Education Seminar Program hosted by the Fort Pierce Yacht Club, 700 North Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce; register @ www.fortpierceyachtclub.com; $40 per person.
January 9, Tuesday: HISTORIC TROLLEY TOUR, The Wild East: Life in a Florida Frontier Town — 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.; Tours begin at Seven Gables House; $10 per person; Reservations required; Main Street Fort Pierce, 466-3880; www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
January 13, Saturday: TREASURE COAST HISTORY FESTIVAL — 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; held on Second Street in front of the Sunrise Theatre; Indian River Magazine.
January 13, Saturday: HISTORIC TROLLEY TOUR, The Wild East: Life in a Florida Frontier Town — 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.; Tours begin at Seven Gables House; $10 per person; Reservations required; Main Street Fort Pierce, 466-3880; www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
January 19, Friday: COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR — 8:00 a.m.; presented by City of Fort Pierce; Sponsor: New Horizons; held at Fort Pierce Yacht Club; 466-3880; www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
January 19, Friday: ARTWALK — 5 to 8:00 p.m.; Various studios and shops open throughout the downtown area; peacockclay.com, seriouslymixedmedia.com, www.artconnectionfp.com.
January 23, Tuesday: FLORIDA HUMANITIES COUNCIL SPEAKER SERIES presents RAIN: A history of Stormy Times by Cynthia Barnett. This presentation will be held at the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery at 2:00 p.m. There is no charge to attend but reservations are recommended. To reserve a seat please call
Main Street Fort Pierce 466-3880 or the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery at 465-0630.
January 25, Thursday: HISTORIC TROLLEY TOUR, The Wild East: Life in a Florida Frontier Town — 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m; Tours begin at Seven Gables House; $10 per person; Reservations required; Main Street Fort Pierce, 466-3880; www.mainstreetfortpierce.org.
WEEKLY EVENTS
Wednesdays: Wednesday Green Market — Rain or Shine 12:00 – 6:00 p.m., Downtown Marina Square; 971-8480.
Saturdays: The Jazz Market — 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; north side of the Downtown Fort Pierce Library; Jazz & Blues Society, 460-5299, www.jazzsociety.org.
Saturdays: Ft. Pierce Farmer’s Market — 8:00 a.m. to Noon; Marina Square on Melody Lane; Market Manager, 940-1145.
Saturdays: Pierce Harbor Flea Market — 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Depot Drive parking lot behind City parking garage.
LIVE MUSIC DOWNTOWN
www.allthingstreasurecoast.com
Sailfish Brewing Company Facebook/Sailfish Brewing Company
The Original Tiki Bar www.tikibarandrestaurant.com
Cobbs Landing www.cobbs-landing.com
SUNRISE THEATRE & SUNRISE BLACK BOX
Tuesdays: Jazz Jam at the Sunrise Black Box Theatre — 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.; 460-5299; www.jazzsociety.org.
January 5, Friday @ 8:00 p.m. — Broadway & Beyond on Second Street: One Night in Memphis; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 11, Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. — Brad Garrett; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 12, Friday @ 8:00 p.m. — Dennis Deyoung and the Music of Styx; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 13, Saturday @ 8:00 p.m. — Broadway & Beyond on Second Street: A Night With Janis Joplin; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 13, Saturday @ 8:30 p.m. — Comedy Corner Presents: Will Marfori / Adam Murray;
Black Box Theatre; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 17, Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m. — iLuminate; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 19, Friday @ 7:30 p.m. — Chris MacDonald’s Memories of Elvis Rockin Birthday Bash; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 20, Saturday @ 8:00 p.m. — Bluebird Productions Presents: Selwyn Birchwood; Black Box Theatre; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 21, Sunday @ 7:00 p.m. — The Doo Wop Project; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 25, Friday @ 8:00 p.m. — Broadway & Beyond on Second Street: Gobsmacked!; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 27, Saturday @ 8:30 p.m. — Comedy Corner Presents: Marc “Skippy” Price / Viet Huynh; Black Box Theatre; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 28, Sunday @ 7:00 p.m. — Masters of Illusion – Believe The Impossible; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
January 31, Wednesday @ 7:00 p.m. — In The Mood: A 1940s Musical Revue; 461-4775, sunrisetheatre.com.
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
A.E. Backus Museum 772-465-0630 • www.backusmuseum.com
Downtown Fort Pierce Library 772-462-2787 • www.st-lucie.lib.fl.usFort Pierce Jazz & Blues Society 772-460-5299 • www.jazzsociety.orgFort Pierce Police Athletic League
772-370-6162 • www.fortpiercepal.com Volunteers needed: 772-466-0606
Fort Pierce RiverWalk Center 772-489-6473 • www.cityoffortpierce.com
Heathcote Botanical Gardens 772-464-4672 • heathcotebotanicalgardens.org
Manatee Observation & Education Center 772-429-6266 • www.manateecenter.com
St. Lucie County Aquarium 772-462-3474 • www.stlucieco.gov/marine_
centerSt. Lucie County Regional History Center 772-462-1795 • www.stlucieco.gov/history
Sunrise Theatre 772-461-4775 • www.sunrisetheatre.com
Frank H. Fee, III and Frank H. “Hank” Fee, IVof The Law Firm
Fee & Fee, pllc
are pleased to announce that
E. Clayton Yatesof
E. Clayton Yates, p.p.
will join them in The General Practice of Laweffective January 1, 2018
The Firm will continue as
Fee, Yates & Fee, pllcA Partnership of Professional Corporations
Attorneys At LawSince 1905
Historic Poppell House | 426 Avenue A | Fort Pierce, Florida
6 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 7
HISTORY … continued from page 5
evening session in Vero Beach on Thursday, January 11. That
session, free and open to the public, begins at 7 p.m. at the
Emerson Center, 1590 27th Ave., and will focus on the legacy
of Vero Beach visionary Waldo Sexton, who created Vero
Beach landmarks, including the McKee Botanical Gardens,
the Driftwood Inn, the Ocean Grill, Patio Restaurant and
Szechuan Palace Restaurant.
Featured for the evening, will be Sexton grandchildren
Sean Sexton, Mark Tripson, Jenz Tripson, Bonnie Schwey,
Randy Sexton, and many others. The evening promises a fast-
paced discussion sharing up-close insights of their legendary
grandfather. The presentation will also reveal the many and
creative entrepreneurial paths the Sexton family has taken in
art, agriculture, real estate, and historical preservation.
Both the presentation at the Emerson Center and festival in
downtown Fort Pierce are free and open to the public as part
of an annual celebration of Treasure Coast history produced
by Fort Pierce-based Indian River Magazine Inc. The festival is
cosponsored by CenterState Bank, Southern Eagle Distrib-
uting, East Coast Lumber & Supply Co., Main Street Fort
Pierce, the Sunrise Theatre and the Emerson Center.
“The History Festival is intended to highlight significant
events and personalities along the Treasure Coast,’’ said Indian
River Magazine Publisher Gregory Enns, who is also chairman
of the festival. “We want newcomers to learn more about their
community and old-timers to help us reconnect with the past.’’
During the January 13th celebration, Enns promises to an-
nounce a new project to help preserve history along the Trea-
sure Coast. Last year, the magazine purchased a monument to
mark the unmarked grave at Riverview Memorial Park of cel-
ebrated circus performer Lucia Zora. ❖
Florida Humanities Council 2018 Speaker SeriesHosted by the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery and Main Street Fort Pierce, Inc.
An engaging natural and cultural tour of
Rain, from its key roles in civilization, reli-
gion, and art; to the peculiar history of the
world’s first raincoat; to the rain obsessions
of our “Founding Forecaster,” Thomas Jeffer-
son — all building to the uncharted rains of
climate change. We’ll also take a look at how
many communities are coming to live differ-
ently with rain — as with all water, part of a new water ethic in
America. Rain connects us in all sorts of ways — as profound
as prayer and art, as practical as economics, as genuine as an
exchange between strangers on a stormy day. Too much and not
enough, rain is a shared experience, and one of the ways climate
change can become a conversation rather than a confrontation.
Cynthia Barnett is a long-time journalist who has covered fresh-
water issues from the Suwannee River to Singapore. She is the
author of three books on water. Mirage: Florida and the Vanishing
Water of the Eastern U.S., won the gold medal for best nonfiction
in the Florida Book Awards and was named by the St. Petersburg
Times as one of the top 10 books that every Floridian should read.
Blue Revolution: Unmaking America’s Water Crisis, was named one
of the top 10 science books of 2011 by the Boston Globe.
The Globe calls Barnett “part journalist, part mom, part histori-
an, and part optimist.” The Los Angeles Times writes that she “takes
us back to the origins of our water in much the same way, with
much the same vividness and compassion as Michael Pollan led us
from our kitchens to potato fields and feed lots of modern agri-
business.” Barnett’s latest book, Rain, comes out in spring 2015.
Speaker schedule (all lectures are on Tuesdays from 2 to 3 p.m.):
J a n u a r y 2 3 a t t h e B a c k u s Mu s e u m
Cynthia Barnett
Rain: A History of Stormy Times
Fe b r u a r y 1 3 a t t h e S u n r i s e B l a c k B o x
Dr. Kitty Oliver
Race & Change Across Cultures & Generations: Florida Stories
Fe b r u a r y 2 7 a t t h e B a c k u s Mu s e u m
BOB StOne
Florida Cattle Ranching: Five Centuries of Tradition
M a r c h 1 3 a t t h e S u n r i s e B l a c k B o x
Dr Gary MOrMinO
Florida and WWII
M a r c h 2 7 a t t h e B a c k u s Mu s e u m
PeGGy MaCDOnalD
Marjory Harris Carr: Defender of Florida’s Environment
A p r i l 1 0 a t t h e S u n r i s e B l a c k B o x
Carrie Sue ayvar
Doc Anna: Swamp Doctor of Florida
For more information on any of the lectures or to reserve a
seat, you can call Main Street Fort Pierce at 772-466-3880 or e-
mail [email protected] ; or call the A.E. Backus Museum
at 772-465-0630 or e-mail [email protected]. You can
also visit each organization’s website for more information on the
lecture series and other events going on in Historic Downtown
Fort Pierce: MainStreetFort Pierce.org or BackusMuseum.com.
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Colleen Hayes (pictured below on right) was the winner of the
original watercolor “Love Shack Pineapple” painted by Colleen
Nash Becht (left). The raffle was drawn on Thursday, Decem-
ber 7, at the Holiday Art Show at the Platts/Backus House in
Fort Pierce.
“Love Shack Pineapple”
Cynthia Barnett
8 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 9
The PERFECT place for unique and original gifts!
OF FORT PIERCE LLC
artconnectionfp.com | [email protected]
Open Tuesday to Thursday 10 – 4, Friday 10 – 6, Saturday 8 – 3
Also Open for Artwalk Jan 19th, 5 – 8pm
35 Local Artists | Working Art StudiosFine Art and Fine Crafts
101 N U.S. 1, Suite 124 in the Arcade Building
At the corner of Orange Avenue and U.S. 1
Gateway to the Peacock Arts District
772-801-5584phw.massagetherapy.com
208 Avenue E, Downtown Fort Pierce in historic Edgartown
Specializing in Massage Therapy
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10 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 11
P.P. Cobb General Store and Eatery has New Ownersby Britt Andersen
Annie Hogg’s picture hangs on the wall at the P.P. Cobb General Store. She is the
first owner and reported resident ghost of the P.P. Cobb building. Danae Torre, new
owner of the P.P. Cobb General Store, thanks her and bids her good night each eve-
ning at closing. P.P. Cobb was Annie’s assistant in the late 1800s and eventually bought
the building. Annie, in her day, ran and protected her family’s business and recently
her ghost saved Danae from a fire. A good ghost is nice to have around.
Danae loves the small feel of Fort Pierce and the people who live here. She and her
14-year-old son, Costa, have made this their home along with Danae’s mother and
father. She bought a small farm west of town and raises turkeys, peacocks, ducks, goats,
etc. She’s involved with wholesome, healthy foods without preservatives and her menu
reflects that approach.
Speaking of food, the P.P. Cobb General Store & Eatery is open seven days a week
from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.
on Sunday. Danae lays claim to Sunday evening as family time. While
Costa goes to school nearby you can find him every afternoon helping
out and doing his homework. Danae’s father is a regular for lunch,
chatting with the staff and customers.
Danae has been in the restaurant business since she was 13 and mar-
ried to a French pastry chef. While now divorced, he still helps weekly,
and Danae starts the day at 4 p.m. baking fresh croissants, almond
croissants, apple turnovers, muffins, cookies, and fruit tarts. This is a
good place to both start and finish the day. The menu includes break-
fast platters, omelets, sandwiches on fresh rolls, soups and salads, and
all the trimmings. P.P. Cobb’s is located at 100 Avenue A. Just head for
the Fort Pierce City Marina and you’ll see P.P. Cobb painted in large
letter on the original building by the roundabout.
Danae has kept all the signature craft beers for which the P.P. Cobb
General Store has been know for. Several hundred are available for
your tasting pleasure. The price per 6-pack ranges from $11 to $13,
but Danae has a sample 6-pack for $11.50 where you can choose a
variety of beers or soft drinks to sample. Of course you can sip while
you eat and just watch the world go by on their fabulous porch. There
is also wine on tap along with soda, water, and coffee.
Danae’s expansion plans for the P.P. Cobb General Store & Eatery
are in the works. This is not only a down home place to pull up a
chair and “chat” but one which reflects quiet country charm and great
food. Stop in, breakfast, lunch, or dinner, dine in or take out, ask for
a picnic. This is a keeper for Fort Pierce and I think “Annie” is smiling
down in agreement. ❖
“Bean” Backus taught Alfred Hair to paint, and mentored and critiqued many of the
other Highwaymen artists. He gave art lessons to many young people in Fort Pierce, so
many in fact they were known as the “Backus Brats.” Backus’ love of art education is going
to continue with a series of art classes and workshops, in a variety of mediums, taught by
area artists offered through the A.E. Backus Museum beginning in January, 2018.
The instructors are all experienced artists themselves and
the classes will be kept small to offer each student a lot of
instructor attention. Joe Miller will be offering woodcarv-
ing; Gerald O’Sullivan is teaching both acrylic painting
and drawing 101; Jewelry classes include workshops in
fused glass by Barbara Warren and beaded jewelry by Jenny
Shibona. Examples of Shibona’s beaded jewelry are for sale in
the Museum store.
Classes begin in January, class sizes are limited and ad-
vanced registration is required. To register or get informa-
tion on class details, costs and locations please call the A.E.
Backus Museum at 772-465-0630 or visit the website,
BackusMuseum.com, and look for classes under the Programs tab.
The Museum is pleased to continue Backus’ legacy as a teacher by offering art education
in Fort Pierce. Please expand your horizons and take an art class. You will be glad you did.
Regular A.E. Backus Museum hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday,
Noon to 4 p.m.; closed on Monday and Tuesday. The Museum is closed Christmas Eve, Christ-
mas Day, and New Year’s Day. Admission is $5 per person; AARP, AAA, and Veterans with ap-
propriate ID receive a $2 discount. Students with school ID, children under 18 and active duty
military are always free. The first Sunday of the month is Family Day and admission is free.
Backus’ Legacy Continues with Art Instruction Through the A.E. Backus Museumby Holly Theuns
12 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 13
Fort Pierce – The Heart of Artby CheryLynn Ferrari
Happy New Year! We made it to 2018 but it’s hard to believe that 2017 flew by so quick-
ly. November and December were wonderful retail months for the art businesses here in
our beautiful and historic downtown Fort Pierce. Thank you to our locals, our visitors
and part-timers who arrived early and are loving the changes since you were here last year.
Although we have fliers with maps available for our monthly ArtWalk (which is now
the 3rd Friday of each month, so mark your calendars), I’m going to take this opportunity
to appoint myself as your mini-tour guide. A brief description of the places where you
can find our local artists and their creations for sale in our artsy downtown and in the
newly-opened Peacock Arts District will assist you in making sure you don’t miss a thing!
Starting at the top of 2nd Avenue, you’ll find the open-door studio of Christopher Gun-
kel. This quirky little place often gets missed because it’s located in the northernmost res-
idential-looking structure before you get to Tickle Tummy bridge. For a full introduction
to Chris’ art and working studio, be sure to read the feature article on him in this issue.
Right next door is the home studio of Colleen Becht. Colleen’s style is fluid and vibrant.
She’s well known for her sea turtles. You can visit on ArtWalk evenings or by appointment.
Peacock Clay Collaborative is a few doors south on your art journey. A group of talented clay artists
formed this co-op where the most unusual clay creations and pottery can be found. You might even visit
while some of the artists are in the process of making their art.
Crossing Avenue A and continuing down the west side of 2nd Street, you come to Galleria Paradise.
This is a working studio and gallery where you’ll find paintings, sculptures, and mosaics in a variety of
themes and styles.
Just a couple of steps south, accessible via the little alley on your right, is Woodcarver’s Den. It’s open
Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday mornings from 9 to 12 (when the sign is on the sidewalk)
for adult woodcarving and wood burning classes, taught by Joe Miller.
Now, step to the east side of 2nd Street and a few more yards south, to enter Notions
and Potions. Here you’ll find a combination of items, many created by local artists and
artisans. Lovely paintings and hand-crafted décor items fill the walls and shelves. There
are also paint-and-sip classes available for those who want to have some fun.
Finally, you’ll reach the intersection of Orange Avenue, another main artery for local
art here in Fort Pierce. Fortunately, the blocks are short and the weather this time of year
is gorgeous, so you’ll love the opportunity to meander. Head toward the river, and when you get
there, cross Orange Avenue and proceed to the second storefront which is the studio and gallery
of Lisa Jill Allison. Lisa paints big and bold. Her art ranges from mild to dramatic abstract and she
works with interior designers around the state who use her work to adorn the homes of their clients.
When you exit, go back to Orange Avenue and turn left, cross Indian River Drive, and stop at the
big white building with the red ‘ART’ on the side. This is the 111 Building and you’ll find a dozen
artists located on the 2nd floor Mezzanine level, which is accessible via elevator.
Your next stop along Orange Avenue is on the corner of 2nd Street at the Galleria
Shops. The Art Collector’s Gallery, upstairs, offers the work of three local artists including
Anita Prentice. You can also sign up for painting classes
with Debra Terrio.
Now, back on street level, cross 2nd Street going west, go
down a few doors on Orange Avenue, and enter Seriously
Mixed Media. This is a gallery of five co-op members who
are beautifully diverse in their talents. I’ll bet you’ll see things
you never imagined, so please don’t miss this wonderful shop.
Ashley DeWitt’s studio is upstairs, over Seriously Mixed Me-
dia. She is a collage artist and has just opened in this location.
Take a moment to go up to check out the new space.
Next door is Mike’s Computer Repair which has recently
become an internet café and art gallery featuring the works of
local artists. The art is for sale and worth stopping in to see.
Continue west on Orange Avenue, across the railroad tracks,
and you should see a sign on the side of the building directing
you to go around back to the studio of Leslie Stokes.
Last stop on the tour is Art Connection in the historic land-
mark Arcade Building. Cross Orange Avenue at the corner of
U.S. Highway 1 to the City Hall corner (north) and then cross
U.S. 1 to the west and enter the arched gate. You can also drive
to this location. There is a private parking lot on the west side
specifically for this building.
Art Connection is the first gallery to reside in the new
Peacock Arts District which runs the corridor from U.S.
1 to 7th Street along Orange Avenue. That’s where you’ll
see the painted pots lining the street and the new banners
mounted on the light posts. This is a five-member co-op
with additional spaces rented to 40 local artists, so the vari-
ety of art you’ll find here is unmatched; from woodworking
to blown glass, to paintings of every medium, to handcraft-
ed jewelry, to copper sculptures, tile mosaics, original hand-
painted greeting cards, and more. Some of the members are
working in their studios enabling you to see the art happen
at their fingertips.
That completes the tour of locations of our local artists.
There are additional shops which participate in ArtWalk be-
cause they feature artistic décor. All participating businesses are
on the ArtWalk map.
Coming soon — by the winter of 2018, we’re likely to
have several more art locations here as the Peacock Arts District develops. The building directly west of the Ar-
cade building, on the corner of 5th Street and Orange,
is an old post office. It’s being renovated as a coffee shop
with spaces for artists, and should be ready to occupy by
spring of this year.
And don’t forget the Backus Gallery down by the river, art
showplace of our legendary first artist. The gallery not only
shows the work of Beanie Backus but also hosts a variety of
exhibits throughout the year.
I hope the tour has inspired you to get out and explore. A
lot is happening, the art presence is growing, and Fort Pierce
is, without a doubt, the Heart of Art in S.t Lucie County. ❖
14 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 15
Historical Mission in the Heart of Downtown Fort Pierceby Jan Bals
Located diagonally across
from the Historic City Hall
building, on the northwest
corner of U.S. 1 and Avenue
A, and just north of the re-
stored Arcade Building,
there is a Catholic Mission Church built during the 1950s.
It was originally called “the first Christian Church of Fort
Pierce,” and after its closing, the building remained unoccu-
pied for several years.
In 1995, the Palm Beach Diocese purchased the building and,
following renovations, it became the Notre Dame Catholic
Mission of Fort Pierce. The Mission serves both English and
Creole speaking parishioners with a current congregation of over
300 members. This number dramatically increases during the
winter season when Notre Dame welcomes residents and seasonal
visitors while offering spiritual, social, and volunteer opportunities.
Much of the building remains in its original state but in re-
cent years, beautiful stained-glass windows have been provided
through the benevolence of some of its members. It’s worth the
visit just to view these lovely works of art.
In addition to weekly masses , the building also houses “Sar-
ah’s Kitchen,” an organization which provides well-prepared,
weekly sit-down dinners for the homeless, financially chal-
lenged and the elderly.
The society of St. Vincent de Paul, an international Catholic
charitable organization, also maintains its Fort Pierce office
in this building. It is staffed by volunteers and serves the
disadvantaged of Fort Pierce regardless of ethnicity, race, or
creed. Because many clients are without transportation, bikes
are in great demand. SVDP depends on donations of used
bikes, and volunteers repair them for operational use.
One of the many outreach programs is a children’s sum-
mer camp, and this year, 75 children were provided with
seven weeks of supervised activities, three daily meals, and
field trips (all of which emphasized learning, socialization,
and spiritual guidance).
The many social activities include the “Night of Joy,” an
annual fund raiser held at the Pelican Yacht Club in Fort
Pierce, for the purpose of bringing together seasonal and
year-round members. The Notre Dame Mission provides
religious and human services to all in need and is a family
congregation rooted in faith, hope and love. Following the
Lord’s example of true Christian stewardship, Notre Dame
extends a welcome to all.
English Masses are held on Saturdays at 5:00 p.m., Sundays
at 8:00 a.m., and Sundays at 9:30 a.m. (Dec. – April). Creole
Masses are held on Sundays at 11:00 a.m. ❖
Notre DameCatholic Mission Church
217 North U.S. Highway 1Fort Pierce, Florida
ENGLISH MASSESSaturday 5:00 p.m., Sunday 8:00 a.m.,
Sunday 9:30 a.m. (Dec — Apr)CREOLE MASS
Sunday 11:00 a.m.
16 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 17
2nd Place Best Commercial Entry – Seacoast Bank
3rd Place Best Commercial Entry – A.E. Family Farms
3rd Place Best Commercial Entry – St. Lucie Battery & Tire
1st Place Best Decorated Vehicle (Non-float) – Sunrise City Boxing
2nd Place Best Decorated Vehicle (Non-float) – Treasure Coast Vintage Car Club
2nd Place Best Decorated Vehicle (Non-float) – Vdub Addiction Club
3rd Place Best Decorated Vehicle (Non-float) – Mustard Seed Ministries
1st Place Best Music Performance/Marching Band – St. Lucie West Centennial Eagle Regiment
2nd Place Best Music Performance/Marching Band – St. Anastasia Royal Ram Band
3rd Place Best Music Performance/Marching Band – Fort Pierce Central Marching Cobra Band
1st Place Best 4H or Youth Club Group – Lasala’s Dojo Christ Centered Martial Arts
2nd Place Best 4H or Youth Club Group – Spurs & Stuff 4-H Club
3rd Place Best 4H or Youth Club Group – Rocking Horse 4H
1st Place Best Governmental/Public Agency Entry – Fort Pierce Utilities Waste/Water Department – Santa
2nd Place Best Governmental/Public Agency Entry – Florida Department of Health St. Lucie County
3rd Place Best Governmental/Public Agency Entry – St. Lucie County Fire Department
1st Place Best St. Lucie School Entry – Indian River State College
2nd Place Best St. Lucie School Entry – St. Andrews Episcopal Academy
3rd Place Best St. Lucie School Entry – Open Arms Preschool
Downtown Window Display Winners
1st Place – The Cake Lady
2nd Place – Chic and Shore
3rd Place – Chaney’s House o Flowers
4th Place – Notions & Potions
Thank you sponsors: City of Fort Pierce, Fort Pierce Sunrise
Kiwanis, iHeartMedia’s WAVW 92.7 and OLDIES 103.7,
Fort Pierce Utilities Authority, Gotta Go Green, Ocean
Chiropractic & Health Centers, and Waste Management of
FL, Inc.
Main Street Fort Pierce would like to thank the commu-
nity for participating in the 29th Annual Sights & Sounds on Second Festival & Parade. Thank you to all of the entries
in the parade for making this the biggest and best parade ever!
Congratulations to the winners!
Save the Date for next year! 30th Anniversary of the Sights & Sounds Festival & Parade, Sunday, December 2, 2018.
2017 Sights & Sounds on Second Festival & Parade, December 3, 2017Downtown Fort Pierce came alive on Sunday, December 3,
2017 as thousands of people joined the City of Fort Pierce,
Fort Pierce Sunrise Kiwanis and Main Street Fort Pierce for
the 29th Annual Sights and Sounds on Second Festival and Parade. Common Ground Vineyard Church started the day
with an outdoor service, Santa arrived at the festival at 1:30 and
local dance groups performed for the crowd as excitement built
for the main event the Holiday Parade. This year’s parade was the
biggest yet with 100 entries, 2,600 participants and 62 horses.
Immediately following the parade Mayor Linda Hudson, and
Santa lit the Christmas tree and the Holiday Lights at Marina
Square. Holiday Lights will run through January 4, 2018.
Thank you, Fort Pierce Sunrise Kiwanis Club for organiz-
ing the Parade!
Thank you, City of Fort Pierce, Fort Pierce Public Works Department, Fort Pierce Police Department, Fort Pierce Public Works Department, Santa, Tom Kindred, and Gene Sereg, for a great job at the Parade!
Parade Winners
1st Place Float – San Juan Diego Hispanic Mission
2nd Place Float – Fraternal Order of the Eagles #3582
3rd Place Float – Fort Pierce Elk’s Lodge #1520
1st Place Equestrian Group – Midnight Riders 4-H Club
2nd Place Equestrian Group – C.R. Legacy 4-H Club
3rd Place Equestrian Group – Turn & Burn 4-H Club
1st Place Girl Scout/Boy Scout Group – Gemini Girl Scouts of St. Lucie County
2nd Place Girl Scout/Boy Scout Group – Girl Scouts Troop 42007 & 40718
3rd Place Girl Scout / Boy Scout Group – Cub Scout Pack 479
1st Place Best Dance / Cheer Group – True Crew Dance Company
2nd Place Best Dance / Cheer Group – St. Lucie Ballet
3rd Place Best Dance / Cheer Group – Dynamic Dancing Divas
3rd Place Best Dance/ Cheer Group – Royal Elite Gems
1st Place Best Commercial Entry – Summerlin’s Marine Construction
Stop in to see our new stylesfor the New Year!
Proud supporter of Main Street Fort Pierce
The Unique Chic Boutique That Everyone Can Afford!
Present this ad for 20% OFF any one clothing item(Excludes sale items and boots — cannot be combined with other discounts)
Whimsy Fort Pierce
521 North Second StreetLocated 2 blocks South of Seaway Drive in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce
Open Tue – Wed 10am to 4pm; Th – Sat 10am to 6pm
772-882-4397 • www.whimsyflorida.com
MORE PHOTOS … Continued on next page
Parade photos by Mary Ann Ketchum
18 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 19
20 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 21
Chris Gunkel – Artist Hiding in Plain Sightby CheryLynn Ferrari
I recently had the pleasure of
spending time with one of our
least noticed and most laid back
local artists in his open-door stu-
dio. Chris Gunkel lives and works
right on 2nd Street in the north-
ernmost house before you get to
Tickle Tummy Bridge and Av-
enue A. Most people just think
it’s a funky old residence, but this
lovely vintage structure
with its wide and breezy
porch is hiding a Fort
Pierce treasure.
If you take him up on
his offer to drop in any-
time, you’ll be greeted by
such a variety of artistic styles and mediums adorning the walls, it’s
hard to believe it all comes from one man. He’s well known for his
precisely defined pencil drawings, some of his earliest artworks. I
was particularly drawn to a seascape that just speaks to you when
you look at it. But Chris also knows how to make acrylics and oils
sing on a canvas and in a mural.
Art is his passion and he
brings to every piece he creates
a sense of his heartfelt compas-
sion as well. As much emotion
as his work can evoke, he started
his professional career in some-
thing less romantic — commer-
cial graphic art studios and retail
advertising. Chris comes from
a family rooted in commercial
printing, advertising, and fine
arts, so it wasn’t much of a sur-
prise that he chose a branch of
art to pursue for himself.
With a fine art education
from some impressive institu-
tions, he proceeded into the
corporate world where his job
became the melding of creativ-
ity into business advertising.
His great task was to prove to
the business-minded executives how art in advertising reaches
out to the public to create a bond, a relationship, which suc-
cessfully sells product.
Now with forty years of experience in commercial graphics and
his fine art painting which has been exhibited and sold in major
art galleries of the U.S. and Canada, Chris enjoys the easy ambi-
ence of downtown Fort Pierce, a relaxed environment for a gentle
non-conformist. The view from his front window catches the se-
rene waters of the river. An abundance of flora and fauna inhabit
the small patch of ground in front of the wide veranda. And inside
his first-floor studio, he creates.
Finished paintings hang on the walls, unfinished canvases stack
up against baseboards and furniture. The trappings of an artist
clutter the desks and tables. But as a visitor and a fellow artist, I
looked upon these things with understanding. Being an artist is
not a neat and orderly way of life. It’s a lifestyle that chooses you,
rather than the other way around.
The mind is always envisioning the next piece of work or how
to improve the one currently on the easel. The enticement of new
mediums, new styles, new techniques is always looming right
there on the horizon. The challenge of capturing the passion and
conveying feelings and thoughts onto canvas with color and brush
strokes is the essence of an artist, and Chris is such a person. He
has the gift.
Any artist will tell you that when the muse is with you, you feel
compelled to shut the door and go with it. And yet, Chris will set
aside his current project and welcome you into his world to chat
with you about what he does. Because it is his passion. It sustains
him. His work is a treasure. And it is my happy task to put him in
the spotlight and share him with you.
Now that you know where he is, stop by when you are mean-
dering 2nd Street. Take a few minutes to enjoy his work. Join the
other collectors, which make up his large following and take home
a piece for yourself. It will become a family heirloom. ❖
22 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 23
Dollars for Scholarsby Don Bestor
�Love, Jazz Community:
One of the things Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society is
known for besides our tremendous musicians, fabulous Satur-
day morning Jazz Market, master classes, scholarships for tal-
ented students, awesome free Waterside Blues concerts, and of
course our annual Jazz Week in historic downtown Fort Pierce,
is our willingness to collaborate with other nonprofit organi-
zations and support of the many good things going on in the
community. Whenever a call comes in asking for our assistance
with a local, charitable cause, we do our best to participate with
enthusiasm and style.
We love working with other organizations, and that’s why
we were so excited to have an opportunity to partner with the
Fort Pierce Yacht Club on something we’re calling Dollars
for Scholars. It’s an evening of cocktails, professional music,
heavy hors d’oeuvres, and scrumptious desserts to help provide
scholarships for talented young music students on the Treasure
Coast. It’s an exclusive event limited to a very small number
of participants, and it’s scheduled for Sunday, January 28th, at
the Fort Pierce Yacht Club, tucked away just by the bridge on
Indian River Drive.
It’s a time to put on your best cocktail party attire, enjoy
music and dancing courtesy of the Sunrise Party Band (and
yes, it’s the kind of music that everyone loves to dance to), and
there will be prizes and surprises, too. But like we said, it’s an
exclusive and intimate evening, so if you want to join the fun,
you’ll have to get your ticket early. Just $45 admits two adults
for a fabulous evening, and all funds collected will be distrib-
uted to Treasure Coast students for music scholarships through
the Fort Pierce Jazz and Blues Society.
We admit it. We’ve never done anything quite like this be-
fore, but there’s a first time for everything, and we’re hoping
you’ll want to try something new and fun, too, so why not call
us right now at 772.460.JAZZ (5299) to make your reserva-
tions, or visit us online at www.jazzsociety.org. Your evening of
fun, dining, and dancing will help provide much-needed Dol-
lars for Scholars and will help ensure that jazz, blues, and mu-
sical creativity and culture continue for generations to come.
by Sue Dannahower
The Perfect Grilled CheeseSandwich
Making Grilled Cheese? Make sure all ingredients in
your sandwich are at room temperature before cook-
ing. Butter your bread with softened butter so it’s easier
to spread on the bread before cooking. Then use room-
temperature cheese because it’ll melt more evenly and
you won’t run into the problem of burning your bread.
Fun Fact: Grilled Cheese did not start out a sandwich.
During World War II, it was just one piece of bread with
a slice of cheese on top. The 1960s was when the top-
per was added.
24 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 25
26 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 27
Small Business Solutions: 7 Types of Advertising That Don’t Cost an Arm and a Legby Anita Campbell, Guest Blogger, www.SBA.gov
Advertising can be a powerful way
to deal with marketing challenges such
as low brand awareness, a declining
customer base or heavy competition.
Or perhaps you simply have a desire to
drive more foot traffic to your business
and think advertising can help.
Most of us couldn’t afford a 30-sec-
ond national TV ad during a big championship game. Luck-
ily, there are many more affordable and cost effective techniques
available if you choose wisely. Here are 7 types of advertising that
needn’t cost a lot, and can fit within a small business budget:
Social Media Ads — Ads on social sites such as Facebook, You-
Tube and Twitter can cost just pennies for each person who views
your ad. The way each social platform charges is different, and the
type of action you are looking for (view, click-through, etc.) can
vary the rate. With social media ads you can set a small daily bud-
get — perhaps just $20 per day, or around $600 a month.
Classified Ads — Classified ads are perfect if you are looking
to post a job opening or offer a household service such as lawn
cutting or cleaning. A classified ad might cost $200 for a 30-
day run in some newspapers — or less for a shorter time frame
or in a smaller paper.
Event and Charity Sponsorships — Sponsoring local events
such as high school sports, charities or causes, can be relatively inex-
pensive. You can get considerable visibility starting as little as $500.
Donate branded giveaway items at the event such as key chains,
notepads or water bottles with your company logo at a cost of a few
hundred dollars more. You’ll not only get business visibility, but also
the satisfaction of supporting your community or favorite cause.
Sign Spinners — Holding a grand opening? Running a special
sale? Consider a sign spinner service, i.e., someone who holds up a
large sign near a main thoroughfare and spins it around to capture
attention. At $30 an hour (rates vary by market) for a professional
sign-spinning service, it would cost $750 to advertise 5 hours a day
for 5 days. Factor in the cost of printing a large sign, too. Check your
local ordinances to make sure sign spinning is allowed.
Every Door Direct Mail — One of the U.S. Postal Service’s
innovations is a lower-cost way to send direct mail. With the
Every Door Direct mapping tool, you identify neighborhoods
you want to reach. For example, real estate agents or home im-
provement contractors could do a mailing of 5,000 postcards
for under $1,500. That estimate factors in printing costs for
6.5 x 9-inch cards and the Every Door Direct special postage
rate of $0.177 per piece (as of this writing).
Local TV Ads — While not the lowest cost ads out there,
local TV ads are much less expensive than national television
spots. The cost depends on how many people reached, time of
day, and other factors. You’ll also need to work in the cost to
produce your television ad, which could be several thousand
dollars. It might cost $5,000 to $20,000 for broadcast time to
reach an audience of between 1,000,000 and 4,000,000 view-
ers. However, if you sell big-ticket items such as cars or jewelry
in a competitive market, the expense may be worth it.
Local Deal Vouchers — In terms of out-of-pocket expense,
local deals with sites like Groupon, Living Social, and others
can be the least expensive because you do not pay a dime up
front. But, watch out. In the end, local deal vouchers can be
expensive if you give away all your profit. The way they work is
that you offer the consumer a discount — usually significant.
Let’s say an item normally sells for $50. You create a Groupon
local deal for half off at $25.00. Let’s assume Groupon takes
50% of the consumer’s price, in this case $12.50. You receive
the remaining $12.50 — on a product you typically charge
$50.00 for!
Note: the above advertising cost estimates are just that —
estimates. Many factors affect advertising costs, so always get
firm price quotes in advance.
Finally, remember that the most benefit comes from combin-
ing advertising with other marketing. For example, advertising
your grand opening along with hiring a DJ and providing food
during the event, together with a publicity campaign targeting
your local media and postings on your social media channels,
may get far more mileage than advertising alone. ❖
Join the 21st Anniversary Celebration of the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market on Saturday, January 27
Festive live music by “Big Coque,” anniversary
cakes from Importico’s Bakery, and the sale
of beautiful beach-themed tote bags created
by local artist Julie Lounibos will highlight
the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Mar-
ket’s 21st anniversary celebration Saturday,
January 27th.
Come join the celebration from 8 a.m.
until noon at Marina Square and stock up
on fresh, healthy selections to stock your
pantry. Sixty-five vendors will be selling
their finest selections of locally grown produce,
plants, fresh and ready-to-eat foods. Other items avail-
able include breads and pastries, jams and jellies, pickles,
kettle corn, olives and tapenade, crab cakes, fish, poultry,
spice blends, body care products, fruit smoothies, coffees and
specialty teas, and more.
The Market’s vibrant venue on Melody Lane offers
beautiful waterfront views, plentiful seating, and enjoyable
entertainment which delight visitors each Saturday throughout
the year. Since 1977, the Market has grown into a year–
round “Saturday Morning Tradition,” and is ranked as
one of Florida’s favorite farmers’ markets.
Throughout its 21 years of business, the
Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market
has promoted healthy shopping choices, com-
munity access to local agricultural products
and fresh foods, and the economic develop-
ment of small businesses, agricultural busi-
nesses, and Fort Pierce’s downtown busi-
nesses. The managing board of the Market,
a non-profit organization, contributes annually to community
food banks, charities, and educational programs.
For further information on the Downtown Fort Pierce
Farmers Market 21st Anniversary, visit the Market website at:
https://www.fortpiercefarmersmarket.com or go to the Face-
book Fort Pierce Farmer’s Market page. The Market Manager
can be contacted at 940-1145. ❖
28 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 29
Local Fishing Report: Catching Cobiaby Captain Bo Samuel, Pullin Drag Charters
It’s time to make a resolution to do more fishing in 2018!
Our local waters, from the Indian River Lagoon, to the Fort
Pierce Inlet and out in the Atlantic, provide abundant oppor-
tunities to enjoy this great activity. From the avid angler to the
youngest novice, there is room for everyone on the boat!
In the cooler months, there is more opportunity to catch co-
bia since they move from the colder waters of north Florida to
our area and south. Cobia, a powerful predatory fish, is highly
prized for its fight and taste. Sometimes these fish can be spot-
ted from the boat swimming on the surface near buoys, pilings
and wrecks. Cobia also school so when you see one, there are
probably more in the area. When hungry, cobia will eat almost
anything from crabs and shrimp to artificial lures and feathers.
Medium to heavy tackle will help land these fish but keep a gaff
handy depending on size. Keepers must be at least 33 inches
long to the fork.
As always, check with your local bait and tackle shops or my-
fwc.com for fishing rules and regulations. And make your New
Year’s resolution to get on the water and start Pullin Drag!
by Sue Dannahower
Cheddar, Bacon & Apple Grilled Cheese8 ½-inch thick slices country-style white bread
12 ounces farmhouse Cheddar, sliced
12 slices bacon, cooked to desired doneness
1 green apple, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons butter
Dijon mustard
Mayonnaise
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-low heat.
Alternatively, you can use a panini press if you have one.
Generously spread the Dijon & Mayonnaise on 4 slices of
bread. Top each slice with some of the Cheddar, 3 pieces of
bacon, some apple and additional Cheddar. Place a slice of
the remaining bread on top of each sandwich and spread
with the butter. Place a sandwich on the skillet buttered-side
down and butter the remaining side. Cook until the cheese
is slightly melted and the bread is browned. Flip the sand-
wich and continue to cook until the cheese is thoroughly
melted and the sandwich is golden brown. Repeat with the
remaining sandwiches. Serves 4.
BLT With a TwistBasil Mayonnaise
2½ cups (lightly packed) fresh basil leaves
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup (½ stick) butter, room temperature
Salt and pepper, to taste
12 thick-sliced bacon strips (about 1 pound)
12 ½-inch-thick slices fresh country-style white bread
3 large tomatoes, cut into ¼-inch-thick rounds
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 ripe avocados, pitted, peeled, sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
6 lettuce leaves
Mix basil, mayonnaise and butter in processor until basil
is finely chopped and mixture is well blended. Season to
taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover
and refrigerate.)
Cook bacon in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat
until crisp, about 8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels; drain.
Spread half of mayonnaise mixture over 1 side of 6 bread
slices. Top each with 2 tomato slices. Sprinkle tomatoes with
salt and pepper. Top tomato slices with avocado, then with
bacon strips, onion and lettuce. Spread remaining mayon-
naise mixture over remaining 6 bread slices. Place bread slic-
es atop lettuce. Cut sandwiches in half and serve. Serves 6.
Sandwiches for Dinner
30 MAIN STREET FOCUS JANUARY 2018 JANUARY 2018 MAIN STREET FOCUS 31
40" HD big screen TVs, 50 Tap Beers, Food and Drink Specials Daily
Open for Lunch and Dinner Every Day
122 North 2nd Street • Historic DowntownFort Pierce
293-9191 • www.2ndStreetBistro.com
Home of the Everyday Happy Hour
3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Banquet Room Available
