The New York Mets open spring training camp for the 36th year in Port St. Lucie and there’s no doubt the vibe is at an unprecedented level.
Here are three among many reasons for the optimism of a third World Series championship that springs eternal:
For the first time in four years, there’s no COVID pandemic or MLB lockout interfering with the Grapefruit League schedule or limiting stadium capacities to 20% like it did in 2021.
Mets fans have plenty to cheer about this spring
Finally, things seem headed back to normal as the New York Mets open camp for spring training in Port St. Lucie. As of this writing, there’s no sign that the pandemic or a Major League Baseball lockout will interfere with this annual rite of spring.
Since the Mets began training here 36 years ago, their appearance has always been the highlight of the year, occurring during the peak tourist season.
Bobblehead collection recieves nod of approval
Never mind stamps or coins. St. Lucie Mets General Manager Traer Van Allen’s colorful collection of 850 bobbleheads will make your head, er, shake in amazement.
A glass cabinet with figurines with large heads mounted on a spring so that it bobs up and down takes an entire wall in the main hallway of the staff offices at Clover Park.
Gary Tenpas says he has the best volunteer job ever. The Port St. Lucie resident is a guardian ad litem [GAL] volunteer. Being a GAL allows Tenpas to help children whose parents or guardians have lost custody through difficult circumstances. He also works with families toward reunification and the modern-day equivalent of happily ever after. It’s not an easy gig, but Tenpas says it’s the most rewarding one he’s ever had and he’s been volunteering and giving back throughout his life.
Joy runs like a shining thread through Joah May Freeman’s life. From martial arts to arranging flowers; reenacting the life of a pirate in full regalia to bridal makeovers, it’s all about making people happy and bringing joy to their lives.
Merejo takes over the reins as new city manager
The City of Port St. Lucie has a new city manager. Jesus Merejo moved up one step from chief assistant city manager to the top job on Feb. 17.
He replaces Russ Blackburn who retired the same day after six years in the position and a 47-year career in government. The council formally agreed on Jan. 23 to contract with Merejo at a yearly salary of $275,000. Like other city employees, he will receive benefits, a yearly cost-of-living increase and, after an annual performance evaluation, may receive a merit raise.
Spring 2023
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