Wednesday, March 6, 2013

The 17th Annual Taste of Martin County Is Right Around The Corner!


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Coleman
acoleman@mentorbig.org
Phone: 772-678-7487

The 17th Annual Taste of Martin County Is Right Around The Corner!

Stuart, FL (March 6, 2013)- The 17th Annual Taste of Martin County is right around the corner! Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P invites you to join us at Memorial Park on April 9, 2013 for The Taste of Martin County to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties. Festivities begin at 5:00pm and continue until 8:00pm.

Martin County’s most noted restaurants are the stars of this well-established and much anticipated event! The Taste of Martin County reflects the best in culinary presentation as well as the very best of community camaraderie for a most deserving cause. Local chefs from a range of 30 or more dining establishments will prepare and serve their signature culinary delights and vie for the prestigious recognition of winning one of The Taste of Martin County’s six award categories. Come and enjoy great food, live music and a craft beer tasting!
As an extensively promoted affair, The Taste of Martin County offers participating sponsors and restaurateurs widespread visibility and recognition as important advocates are vital for the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs.

Tickets are $50 per person or two for $90. Tickets will be available at the door for $60 per person. To purchase tickets or find out more about getting involved call (772)678-7487 or visiting www.TheTasteOfMartinCounty.com.

Photo Caption: Chef Daniel Clark and EZ Cooking Academy at 2012 Taste of Martin County!

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more. 

Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P amed Signature Sponsor of The 17th Annual Taste of Martin County


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Coleman
772-678-7487

Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P
Named Signature Sponsor of The 17th Annual Taste of Martin County

Stuart, FL (February 21, 2013)- Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P. (Fox Wackeen Dungey) will once again be the Signature Sponsor for The Taste of Martin County, benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS). The firm has supported The Taste of Martin County for the past four years and is very dedicated to Big Brothers Big Sisters and the children they serve.  The Taste of Martin County will be hosted at Memorial Park in Stuart on April 9, 2013.

“Mentoring is very near and dear to the hearts of attorneys, because it is so important during our career development,” said Fox Wackeen Dungey partner George W. Bush. “It has been proven time and time again that the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring model works and has demonstrable impact on the lives of participating children. Who wouldn’t support an organization with such a proven impact in our community?”

“We are proud to have Fox Wackeen Dungey supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Taste of Martin County,” said BBBS President and CEO Bill Bee. “Our success is only possible with the support of community conscious businesses and leaders like George Bush and his firm.”

The Taste of Martin County showcases local restaurants, caterers, food wine and beer vendors and offers attendees a “taste” of what everyone has to offer. Restaurants compete for votes from attendees in each of the six categories: Best Soup, Best Salad, Best Appetizer, Best EntrĂ©e, Best Dessert and Best Presentation.

BBBS is still currently accepting sponsors, restaurants participants and silent auction donations. To find out more about getting involved visit www.TheTasteofMartinCounty.com or call 772-678-7487.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

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Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Receives Special Recognition by The Mayor and City Commissioners of West Palm Beach


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Coleman
Phone: 772-678-7487

Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Receives Special Recognition by
The Mayor and City Commissioners of West Palm Beach

Stuart, FL (February 19, 2013)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) President and CEO William P Bee was recognized by The Mayor and City Commissioners of West Palm Beach for his hard work and dedication to the children of West Palm Beach.  

William Bee has been a dynamic force in providing quality community services to children since he joined BBBS in 2003, returning from retirement after a long and successful career on Wall Street. While he was originally invited to assist in a short term capacity, it soon became apparent Mr. Bee was here to stay. Mr. Bee brought his ‘nose’ for business and his charm to an ailing agency, which has since thrived under his supervision. Within two years of his direction Big Brothers Big Sisters Martin County significantly improved their financials as well as their overall impact on children in the community. Mr. Bee’s contribution has been so significant that he was honored as the Top Small Sized Agency CEO in 2007 by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. In 2009 the agency was named in the top 100 small businesses in South Florida by Business Leader Magazine, due in no small part to Mr. Bee’s leadership.

Mr. Bee not only leads his agency, he also volunteers. He was matched with an autistic child in 2005 and has served as his mentor and friend for over 8 years. Mr. Bee and his “Little” meet regularly and participate in many activities together.

In late 2009 Mr. Bee’s impact and contributions yielded yet another achievement. The previous agency in the Palm Beach County territory succumbed to the recession, and Mr. Bee was charged with the responsibility of the location. The new territory is roughly ten times the size of Martin County alone, increasing the total population under his agency from 150,000 to over 1,600,000. Mr. Bee accepted this responsibility in stride and immediately began working toward serving as many children as possible.

Mr. Bee believes his success with BBBS is due to selecting the right team. “Recognize that your staff is your most valuable asset; thus, if an issue presents itself, focus on finding a solution rather than looking where to place blame,” he says. “Additionally, remain optimistic; people gravitate towards people with positive attitudes rather than those with negative perspectives. You learn from every experience, and every experience offers opportunity in some form.”

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more. 

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Son’s of Italy Dinner a Smashing Success


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450

Son’s of Italy Dinner a Smashing Success
 Food only Part of the Fun as Raffles and Auctions are Included

November 20, 2012 (Martin County, FL) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties (BBBS) was the proud beneficiary of the 2012 Son’s of Italy’s Columbus Day Dinner. During their November club meeting, Son’s of Italy presented BBBS with a check for $7,000!

“On behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties we would like to send our utmost thanks to Son’s of Italy for choosing us to be their 2012 beneficiary,” said BBBS Executive Director of Martin County, Stacey Brownlow. “Their generosity is greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten.” 

The wonderful evening included raffles, a silent auction and a 50/50 contest. In a tremendous display of unselfishness and generosity, the 50/50 winner donated the majority of his earnings back to the agency. 

BBBS would also like to extend thanks all attendees and sponsors for making the event the huge success that it was. 

Photo Caption: Stacey Brownlow, Aleisha Garcia and Dennis Fano at November Son’s of Italy meeting at Palm Cove Golf Club in Palm City. During their monthly meeting the Son’s of Italy presented Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties with a check for $7,000.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties:

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models.  Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County.  Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies.  Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses.  Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

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Tuesday, November 13, 2012

BBBS Executive Director Spreads Agency’s Message at Luncheon


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450

BBBS Executive Director Spreads Agency’s Message at Luncheon
Speech Includes Mentoring Programs

November 13, 2012 (Jupiter, FL)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties(BBBS) was presented with a $250 donation during the October Abacoa Volunteer Luncheon on Tuesday, October 23, 2012. 

Stacey Brownlow, BBBS Martin County Executive Director was featured as the keynote speaker.  Ms.  Brownlow focused on the positive difference volunteers make in our community.  She discussed the Jupiter Mentoring Program as well as several other BBBS programs including community, site based, and career skills mentoring programs as well. 

“On behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties I would like to thank the Abacoa Volunteer Council for allowing me this wonderful opportunity to speak on volunteerism and the BBBS cause,” she said.  “It’s due to donations and events like this one that we are able to make a difference in the lives of the children in our local communities.”
 
BBBS welcomes the opportunity for informational presentations about mentoring in Palm Beach and Martin Counties.  Please contact Jeanie Flanagan at 772-283-8112 or by email at jflanagan@mentorbig.org if interested in featuring a BBBS presenter. 

Photo Caption:
Stacey Brownlow, BBBS Executive Director of Martin County is presented a check by Beth Kelso, Executive Director of the Abacoa Property Owners Assembly

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models.  Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County.  Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies.  Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses.  Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

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Monday, November 12, 2012

Organizations Join Forces to Help Families in Need


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450
Email: agarcia@mentorbig.org

Organizations Join Forces to Help Families in Need
Second Year of Basic Needs Drive has
Potential to be More Successful than First

November 12, 2012 (Martin & Palm Beach County, FL) - For the second consecutive year, Dollar General will team up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) for a basic needs drive during the Holiday season. The drive begins on November 12th and concludes on December 16th. Collection bins will be placed at Dollar General locations in Martin and Palm Beach County.

Last year Dollar General shoppers indulged themselves in the giving spirit, donating hundreds of items to children for the holiday season. This year, expectations are for even more contributions.

“We are grateful to partner with an amazing organization like Dollar General to alleviate some of the stress the holiday season can create for local families facing adversity,” said BBBS President and CEO William P. Bee, Jr.

Basic needs items donated can include socks, T-shirts, toothpaste, shampoo, sheets, detergent, and more. To participate in the holiday drive, visit any Dollar General location in Martin or Palm Beach County and look for the donation box near the cash register. If you are interested in making a cash donation, please contact BBBS at 561-727-3450.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies. Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Golf Open Swings into Holiday Season


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450

Golf Open Swings into Holiday Season
Play to be accompanied by Dinner Reception and Auction

November 7, 2012 (Martin County, FL)-Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties(BBBS) will be hosting the 8th annual Santa Claus Open Golf Tournament on Friday, December 7th at Hobe Sound Golf Club. Treasure Coast Estate Buyers and Publix Super Markets are proud to be the 2012 Co-Signature Sponsors for the upcoming event. Participants are invited to a round of golf, a fabulous dinner reception and auction. 

Golfers will enjoy the pristine setting, a challenging game and the chance to win exciting prizes! All proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and players are requested to bring an unwrapped toy for a child participating in our programs.
BBBS is currently accepting sponsors, foursomes, auction donations and raffle prizes to be featured at the event.  Registration is $250 per golfer, and $900 per foursome if a payment is submitted and received by November 16th. Registration is currently available online at www.SantaOpen.com.  
Photo Caption:
BOT member Frank Byers at Santa Claus Open Golf Tournament at Hobe Sound Golf Club. Photo provided by Judy Swan.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models.  Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County.  Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies.  Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses.  Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

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