Monday, March 28, 2011

Local Restaurants Give Back to Martin County

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Thornberry
kthornberry@mentorbig.org
Phone: 772-283-8373

Local Restaurants Give Back to Martin County

Stuart, FL (March 28, 2011)- 28 local restaurants, chefs and bakeries have signed up to participate in the 15th Annual Big Taste, the major fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS). For just $30 per person or two for $50 (advanced ticket sales) Martin County residents can enjoy a taste from these delicious, and philanthropic, local businesses.

“We invite everyone to please join us on April 5th at The Evergreen Club in Palm City to support Big Brothers Big Sisters, and remember these restaurants the next time you’re looking for a place to go out to eat!”  said BBBS President/CEO Bill Bee. “The Big Taste provides an opportunity for us to come together as a community and celebrate the generosity and dedication of these restaurants. We are lucky to live in such a charitable community.”

Committed restaurants include: Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Artichoke Cafe, Big Apple Pizza, Carmella’s Brick Oven Pizza, Charlie’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill, Chef Mark Muller, Edible Spirits, Ian’s Tropical Grill, Indian River State College School of Culinary Arts, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Keylime Cafe, La Bortaga, Manero’s, Martin County High School Culinary School, Mulligan’s Beach House, Padrino’s Original Hoagies, Palm City Grill, Palm Cove Sports Grill, Panera, Pei Wei Asian Diner, Publix Super Markets, Southern Pride, Splash Poolside Bar and Grill, The Chef’s Table, The Evergreen Club and TooJay’s.

For a complete list of restaurants and their entries, please visit www.thebigtaste.net.

Discounted advanced tickets are on sale now at www.thebigtaste.net, BBBS offices at 5033 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart FL 34997 or any Martin County branch of Seacoast Bank for $30 each or two for $50. Tickets will be available at the door for $40 each.


About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides at-risk children ages 6-18 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 Bill Bee as “CEO of the Year – Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS Martin County in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org  to learn more.

The Palm Beach Opera Family Opera- A “Big” Treat

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Thornberry
kthornberry@mentorbig.org
Phone: 772-283-8373

The Palm Beach Opera Family Opera- A “Big” Treat

Stuart, FL (March 23, 2011)- Children and mentors participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties programs were excited to see the Family Opera presentation of Cossi Fan Tutti on February 26th.

This special performance included a full orchestra, lavish scenery, large chorus, and Palm Beach Opera’s talented Young Artists in an abridged 90 minute version of Cossi Fan Tutti. It featured the best musical highlights of the opera as well as narration of the story and translations projected above the stage so children could understand every word. Set changes took place with an open curtain, giving children an exclusive glimpse into how the magic happens on the opera stage. Pre-performance in the Lobby guests visited “education stations” featuring musicians, singers, make-up artists, costume designers, and more. After the performance, meet the artists for photos and autographs in the theater lobby.

The Palm Beach Opera donated tickets to this unique experience to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Mentors and children from both counties jumped at the chance to attend.

“It is a change for our students and an opportunity for them to experience another realm of reality”, said Principal Lockhart of Palm Beach County’s Roosevelt Middle School.  “For sure it is something they may never forget.”

“Big Sister” Analia Borges and her “Little Sister”, Cindy Velasquez with some of Cindy’s family.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides at-risk children ages 6-18 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 Bill Bee as “CEO of the Year – Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS Martin County in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.MentorBig.org to learn more.




Monday, March 21, 2011

BBBS is Seeking Donations For Annual Prom Dash

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Thornberry
Phone: 772-283-8373

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc
Seeking Donations For Annual Prom Dash

Stuart, FL (March 16, 2011)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc. (BBBS) is asking for donations of formal dresses for the 2011 Prom season.  Any girl at Jensen Beach, Martin County and South Fork High Schools struggling with the costly expense of Prom is invited to schedule a confidential appointment to select a dress. The BIG Boutique will be open starting March 28th, 2011.

“Prom is such a special event for teenagers. Prom Dash helps our local students have an incredible night they will always remember,” said Cheryl Salerno, Match Support Specialist with BBBS. “Everyone deserves to enjoy their Prom. We’re asking for dresses and shoes of all sizes. Gift certificates for dry cleaning, makeovers and up-dos are also really appreciated. Just think of everything that made your Prom special- these girls want the same thing.”

“Students always look forward to their Prom night,” said Ms. Jacqueline Townsend, teacher at South Fork High School. “It’s fantastic that Big Brothers Big Sisters is able to help so many of our teenagers have a memorable experience.”

Donations can be dropped off at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties’ offices, located at 5033 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart FL 34997, or at Plato’s Closet 2464 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart FL 34994. For more information about Prom Dash and how you can help, please call 772-283-8373.


About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides at-risk children ages 6-18 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 Bill Bee as “CEO of the Year – Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS Martin County in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.MentorBig.org to learn more. 

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Sobel, Bush & McCluskey, LLP Sponsoring The 15th Annual Big Taste!

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Thornberry
Kthornberry@mentorbig.org
Phone: 772-283-8373

Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Sobel, Bush & McCluskey, LLP Sponsoring The 15th Annual Big Taste!

Stuart, FL (March 15, 2011)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc is proud to announce Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Sobel, Bush & McCluskey LLP (Fox Wackeen Dungey) will be the Signature Sponsor for The Big Taste. Fox Wackeen Dungey has been the signature sponsor of The Big Taste for the last three years, contributing over $15,000.
The Big Taste will be held on April 5th from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at The Evergreen Club in Palm City. All proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc (BBBS) and their mentoring programs serving over 300 children in the community. The Big Taste is preceded by The Big Tournament, also hosted by The Evergreen Club. Tickets to The Big Taste are on sale now at www.thebigtaste.net for $30 each or two for $50 and tickets will be available for purchase the day of the event for $40 each. Tickets are also available at all Martin County Seacoast Bank branch locations.
“Fox Wackeen Dungey has a long history of supporting beneficial programs in our community like Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said law firm partner George Bush. “It is important that children in our neighborhoods have the opportunity to excel and achieve their potential. We’re excited to be a part of that process.”
“We are grateful for the continued support from Fox Wackeen Dungey,” said BBBS President/CEO Bill Bee. “Community partnerships are imperative to our success and we are glad to count Fox Wackeen Dungey as one of our strongest partners.”



About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides at-risk children ages 6-18 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 Bill Bee as “CEO of the Year – Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS Martin County in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.MentorBig.org or call 772-283-8373 to learn more.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Neiman Marcus Partnership Benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Thornberry
kthornberry@mentorbig.org
Phone: 772-283-8373


Stuart, FL (February 28, 2011)-Neiman Marcus stores across the country helped raise over $175,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America this holiday season. Through an in-store promotion from December 7-10 customers were invited to donate $25 to Big Brothers Big Sisters. In return, customers received a $50 gift card to Neiman Marcus. Proceeds were divided between the national and local organizations based on the location of each store. Neiman Marcus of Boca Raton and Neiman Marcus of Palm Beach both participated on behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties.
“We are excited to work with such a fantastic company,” said William Bee, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “Everyone we spoke with was helpful and accommodating. We were invited to present at each store’s staff meeting to explain how our programs work and the impact we have on the lives of children in our community. Without the support of local business partners like Neiman Marcus we could not provide our much needed services.”
“Big Brothers Big Sisters is a fantastic charity, and we’re glad we could help,” said Lauren Johnson, Public Relations Manager for Neiman Marcus in Boca Town Center. “Our staff and customers were very receptive to the program. Who doesn’t love an opportunity to help local children while getting a gift?”
“Palm Beach has historically been a very generous community,” said Marilyn Connor, Public Relations Manager for Neiman Marcus in Palm Beach. “We were happy to continue that tradition this holiday season.”

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
BBBS provides at-risk children ages 6-18 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 Bill Bee as “CEO of the Year – Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS Martin County in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.MentorBig.org to learn more.

Friday, March 4, 2011

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties Prepares for The 15th Annual Big Taste and Big Tournament

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Thornberry
kthornberry@mentorbig.org
Phone: 772-283-8373


Stuart, FL (February 28, 2011)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc is excited to present the 15th Annual Big Taste and Big Tournament! The venue has changed to The Evergreen Club in Palm City, and the big day is set for April 5th, 2011 at 5:00pm.

The Big Taste, sometimes referred to as The Taste of Martin County or A Taste of Martin County’s Best, 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. New this year will be a Best Beer category with the addition of a Beer Garden to the event. Fox Wackeen is proudly sponsoring this year.

The Big Taste is preceded by The Big Tournament, sponsored by Bayview Construction, is a fantastic golf tournament kicking off at high noon with a shotgun start. Prizes will be given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place foursomes as well as closest-to–the-pin and hole-in-one prizes.

Both events are hosted by The Evergreen Club which gives local patrons an opportunity to enjoy this dazzling private golf club nestled in Palm City. Rick Zipsir, Chief Operating Officer of The Evergreen Club is looking forward to the “Big” day. “We’re thrilled to host The Big Taste for Big Brothers Big Sisters this year,” he said. “We’re looking forward to a great time!”

“The Big Taste and Tournament are always our “Biggest” events,” said William Bee, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “We encourage everyone to buy their tickets early! This year we are offering online ticket sales and registration- visit www.thebigtaste.net or www.thebigtournament.com to sign up!”

Tickets are available in advance for $30 each or two for $50 and can be purchased online and at the BBBS office at 5033 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart FL 34997. Tickets will be available at the door for $40 per person.



About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides at-risk children ages 6-18 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 Bill Bee as “CEO of the Year – Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS Martin County in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.MentorBig.org to learn more.