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Mayor Shannon Martin has been a dedicated advocate for the City of Port St. Lucie and
councilmember since 2010. From her initial role as a District 3 City Council representative to her
current tenure as Mayor, she has played a pivotal role in the city's positive transformation and
responsible growth.
Under her leadership, Port St. Lucie has witnessed significant
accomplishments, from reducing debt and lowering the millage rate to spearheading essential
infrastructure projects and attracting major businesses to the thriving Southern Grove jobs
corridor.
Mayor Martin's commitment to enhancing the citys quality of life, promoting public
safety, and ensuring fiscal responsibility makes her a driving force for progress in Port St. Lucie.
Her service to the city is strengthened by the deep personal connection she and her family
share with the community.
Having moved to the city with her family in 2006, Mayor Martin's love for Port St. Lucie runs
deep. Beyond her role in public service, she is a paralegal by profession, and her husband,
Aaron, proudly serves as a Port St. Lucie Police Department Lieutenant.
Together, they take
immense pride in their two college-aged children – son, Nicholas, who attends the University of
Central Florida for Mechanical Engineering, and daughter, Jordan, who is a recent graduate of
the Florida Gulf Coast University with a degree in Forensic Science.
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Dr. Chauncelor R. Howell, USMC (RET) Chauncelor Howell was born and raised in Miami, FL in 1962. Chauncelor graduated from Miami Norland Senior High in the class of 1980. Upon graduating from high school, Chauncelor attended Albany State College and later transferred to Bethune-Cookman College where he remained until 1983.
During that same time frame, Chauncelor enlisted into the United States Marine Corps and reported to boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina in August 1983. Chauncelor remained on active duty for 20 years and officially retired as a Gunnery Sergeant with an honorable discharge on October 1, 2003. Throughout Chauncelor’s tour of duty, he served in a host of military occupations.
The most notable was as a coveted Marine Corps Drill Instructor in 3rd Battalion, India Company at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot & Western Recruiting Region in San Diego, CA from 1990-93.
While stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba at the Marine Barracks on March 13, 1993, Chauncelor was a platoon sergeant and member of the Delta React Force, Headquarters & Service Company and was recognized, for his involvement to help quell a riot and civil disorder at Camp Buckley.
During this operation, Chauncelor displayed determination, courage, and self-sacrifice while protecting the joint task force from rioting Haitian migrants and aiding in the fire-fighting efforts. Chauncelor fearlessly went into harm's way while fighting the fires in the burning sea huts.
Chauncelor’s courage and self-sacrificing actions and coolness while involved in a chaotic and stressful operations were commendable and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and Naval Service.
Furthermore, Chauncelor attended a host of formal leadership courses that include, but are not limited to, Non-Commissioned Officers School, Staff Non–Commissioned Officers Academy, Marine Corps Drill Instructor School, and the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute. Chauncelor’s formal education includes an Associate of Arts (Liberal Arts) from Windward Community College (HI) in 1990. Just over a decade later, he earned a Bachelor of Arts (Liberal Arts) from Chapman University in Orange County (CA) in 2004.
During that same year and upon being hired by FedEx Ground, Chauncelor attended FedEx Ground University to receive his certificate in Executive Recruiting & Interviewing. In 2011, Chauncelor completed his Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Homeland Security from Colorado Technical University.
Although the majority of Chauncelor’s adult life has been within the ranks of the armed forces, he had an opportunity to hone his leadership skills and traits in the public sector as region human resources representative for FedEx Ground’s Florida Region, human resources manager for Eckerd Youth Alternatives, chief operations officer for Evergreen Bio-Concepts, mayoral candidate for the City of Port St Lucie in 2014, and city council respectively in 2016 and 2020.
Chauncelor founded the Treasure Coast Black Chamber of Commerce in 2017 and is co-owner of Stick & Move Cigar Enthusiasts. During 2021 Chauncelor penned a letter in support of the City of Port St Lucie, in their quest to receive the “Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity” (RAISE) grant, which yielded several millions of dollars from the Department of Transportation (DOT).
These funds are specifically allocated for the cutting-edge transportation infrastructure improvements, that created innovative mobility options throughout Tradition and the Southern Grove jobs corridor.
During spring 2022 Chauncelor successfully defended his doctoral study titled “Strategies to Cultivate Long Term Customer Relationships” and earned a Doctoral Degree with a concentration in Business Administration from Walden University.
Shortly thereafter, Chauncelor accepted a nomination from Walden University for membership with the National Society for Leadership & Success and the Golden Key International Honor Society for placing in the top 15% of the class of Summer 2022.
Chauncelor also has volunteered for a host of local charities such as Toys for Tots, United Against Poverty (St. Lucie County), and Habitat for Humanity. Chauncelor also has appeared as a guest panelist at the Temple Beth El Israel to discuss “What’s Dividing America and the Recent Spate of Hate Crimes.”
Moreover, Chauncelor has appeared as guest panelist on behalf of the University of Florida & Florida A & M University’s IFAS Extension platform for the sole purpose of protection and preservation of the Indian River Lagoon.
Chauncelor has also written business related articles for the Treasure Coast Business Magazine and has appeared as a guest on numerous local radio stations to discuss the business climate of the Treasure Coast at-large.
Subsequently, Chauncelor served as a guest panelist on behalf of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at IRSC for the 2022 Statewide Summit in Tampa Bay, FL. In 2024, Chauncelor was awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his volunteerism over a sustained period.
Chauncelor is also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.& Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity, Inc. Chauncelor currently serves as a “Citizen Advisor” for Treasure Coast Palm News’(TCPALM) Editorial Board and has served in that role since 2022.
Chauncelor continues to be active in the community, and collaborates with the City of Port St Lucie as it relates to their annual Juneteenth celebrations.
Chauncelor is married to former Marine Sergeant Virginia Howell who is a social worker, triathlete, and member of the Marine Corps League’s Jack Ivy Detachment, and 2022 Toys for Tots coordinator. They have one daughter (Veronica) and grandson (Kevin).
Vocalist
Harva Tate began singing at the age of six in her small-town church choir. From an early age, she developed a special affinity for the vocal styles of Natalie Cole, Anita Baker, and Regina Belle, to name a few. A natural talent with a unique voice quality and a vocal range spanning four and a half octaves, Harva demonstrates extraordinary versatility across a variety of musical styles.
Throughout her musical journey, Harva has served as a soloist with the Howard University Community Choir, was a member of the R&B group Reasons, and performed as a background vocalist for the R&B group Life.
Her experience also includes serving as an opening act for jazz guitarist and NBA All-Star forward Wayman Tisdale and performing with the Magic City Orchestra under the direction of renowned composer, arranger, writer, and musician Tommy Stewart.
Harva has performed at numerous distinguished events, including the retirement celebration of Congressman Harry Johnston, Chicago’s Black Women’s Expo, and the birthday celebration of Congressman John Conyers. She also regularly sang the National Anthem for the Birmingham Barons and recorded jingles for a Chicago-based Chevrolet dealership. Her performances have extended to various nightclubs and other entertainment venues.
As a recording artist, Harva has released Have a Harva Christmas and Beginning Finally. Her album Beginning Finally is an extraordinary display of her versatility, featuring original selections ranging from the funkiest rhythm and blues to the jazziest of jazz.
Among her honors, Harva has been recognized as an honoree of the Coalition of 100 Black Women and earned First Place in the Florida State Thespian Competition. In addition to her vocal accomplishments, she holds modeling certifications from John Casablancas School of Modeling and Barbizon School of Modeling and has been signed with Model and Talent Management.
Harva is capable of long hours of dedicated work and continually strives for perfection. Above all, her solitary objective remains a message of vocal excellence.
Guitarist - Vocalist
Les Paultre is a Haitian-born guitarist, songwriter, and composer whose career spans decades of touring, recording, and live performance. After moving to the United States, Les studied guitar under a mentor who performed with the legendary Ben E. King, launching a musical journey that would lead him to work with some of R&B and jazz’s most respected artists.
During the early years of his musical journey, Les toured with artists such as Ben E. King, known for the timeless classic “Stand By Me”; Archie Bell and the Drells; and Evelyn “Champagne” King, joining her world tour following the success of her famous hit “Shame.”
Throughout his career, Les has recorded or performed with an impressive roster of artists and musicians, including Nona Hendryx, Mr. Cheeks of the Lost Boyz, Doug E. Fresh, Bernard Wright, Tom Browne, Marcus Miller, Bobby Brown, and Toni Terry. His performances have also graced renowned venues including Carnegie Hall, Studio 54, The Ritz, the Copacabana, and The Savoy.
Blending the musical traditions of his Haitian heritage with influences of funk, R&B, jazz, soul, and Caribbean music, Les is recognized for his expressive guitar style, versatility, and passion for his craft.
Today, Les Paultre continues to write, record, and perform, including collaborations with newer artists such as Nathan Mitchell and Vallery Valentine. With a lifetime of experience and an enduring passion for musical excellence, Les brings artistry, versatility, and seasoned musicianship to every stage and recording.
Survivor Speaker
Amber Pedemonte is an Italian-American author and California Bay Area native who now calls the serenity of South Florida home. Throughout her life, Amber has served in many meaningful roles, including as a medical professional, first responder, and working with children and adults with developmental disabilities.
Yet, the roles she treasures most are being a devoted wife to her incredible husband and a proud mother to three beautiful, successful young men.
Behind the many chapters of Amber’s life is also a powerful story of survival, resilience, and transformation. Having experienced the painful realities of abuse, addiction, and adultery, Amber knows firsthand how easily suffering can remain hidden behind closed doors - and how much courage it can take to finally break free.
Her journey became the inspiration for her book, Withered, a raw and deeply personal account of overcoming the circumstances that once threatened to define her life. Through sharing her story, Amber seeks to give a voice to those who may feel trapped, afraid, or alone and to remind survivors that their past does not have to determine their future.
Today, Amber uses her experiences to share a message of courage, healing, strength, and hope. Her testimony is a reminder that there is life on the other side of abuse and that it is possible not only to survive, but to heal, reclaim your life, and thrive.
Survivor Speaker
This is the second survivor's bio, and photos (I will also send her military photo) attached. Can you help me make a video: Yolanda Miller — Survivor Speaker Bio Yolanda Miller is a United States Army Veteran, retired Registered Nurse, survivor, advocate, and founder of Loved Forever Yeshua.
During her thirty-year nursing career, she dedicated herself to healing, education, advocacy, and compassionate care. She spent the latter part of her career serving fellow Veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs, helping them navigate complex medical and nursing needs.
Her work included case management, suicide prevention, securing and maintaining stable housing, preventing homelessness, and promoting mental health and overall well-being. Throughout her career, Yolanda remained committed to advocating for patients and families, helping them access the care, resources, dignity, and support they deserved, while promoting positive healthcare outcomes and an improved quality of life.
Yolanda is a survivor of two abusive marriages. Through therapy, community support, and an unwavering faith in God, she has emerged fortified and restored. Today, she uses her experiences to bring hope to others, demonstrating that trauma does not have to define a person’s future. She encourages survivors, “Don’t hide your scars; they are your testimony.” Her life reflects the biblical truth, “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony” (Revelation 12:11).
From her journey through pain, prayer, worship, healing, and divine restoration, Loved Forever Yeshua was birthed—a ministry created to encourage others and inspire purposeful, faith-filled prayer. A proud mother of two amazing daughters and surrounded by a beautiful family of siblings, nieces, and nephews, Yolanda considers family among her greatest blessings.
Today, her mission is to uplift and advocate for others navigating their own journeys of healing and restoration. Through sharing her story, Yolanda carries a message of courage, faith, hope, healing, and restoration to fellow survivors: Your trauma does not have the final word. There is life beyond the pain, purpose beyond the trauma, and you are never alone.
Catering Service
Meet Val & Kristy. These two amazing women have been partners in life since 2017 and partners in business since September 2019.
Vallery Thaw, or as the world knows her "Vallery Valentine" has traveled the world performing, recording, appearing, with her band Vallery Valentine & The All-Stars since 2008, and as an independent artist promoting and meeting the demands of her fans since her album was released in 2018.
Vallery is also the owner of Vallery Valentine Entertainment LLC. While performing, she also worked as an accountant in local government & private firms for 20 years.
Kristy, known to her family & friends as "Kris" has been a hard worker all her life. Some would call her a workaholic. Kristy is very well known within the community in which they live and very respected among her colleagues at a prestigious boat manufacturer.
Kristy has worked building boats since 2001 and currently holds a lead position within the company.
So how did these two come into cooking? "Kristy is an amazing cook. She reminds me a lot of my mother" says Vallery. Vallery's mom was a caterer and a seamstress her entire life.
"Food was a big part of my life growing up. I was in the kitchen baking with my mother from the time I was 5. I was frying chicken at the age of 10!"
Considering themselves "foodies" they both became interested in how food was affecting their health. They both dealt with various health issues.
So they began to research healthier ways to prepare food and ventured outside of their comfort zone with foods they wouldn't normally eat.
Vallery says, "I became obsessed with getting us healthy...and I didn't want to sacrifice my love of food to do it. I began watching Darius Williams, who is just a walking light of inspiration! I watched 'The magic pill' on Netflix and immediately became intrigued with how what we put in our bodies affects our bodies."
They went on a mission to turn their new found knowledge of food and their love of cooking into a business. Thus, Inspirational Eats was born.
"We began eating to live, instead of living to eat", says Kristy. Their motto is "where soulfulness inspires healthiness.
" Val & Kristy promote healthy preparation of food. Believing you can still have all of your favorites and not miss a thing, just prepared with fresh, healthy ingredients.
Val & Kristy specialize in Keto/low carb lifestyles with creative menu items, but they also still cater and prepare your child hood, soulful, comfort food favorites as well.
"We do it with soul, and we do it healthy"!
When asked how they came up with the name Inspirational Eats, they simply said, "We were inspired. So we wanted to inspire."