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Iwas a decent student as a kid; a voracious reader and great at math. But I was easily distracted. While I was never tested for ADHD, it took great effort for me to stay focused. My desire to learn was never the issue. Inattention, especially to things that did not excite me, was where the difficulties presented themselves. It wasn’t until recently that I learned what executive functioning is. Similar to how one would prepare for a big game in sports or an important project at work, there are skill sets to master and training techniques that help ensure success at school. I wish these strategies were around when I was a kid. Read about them starting on page 13.
Our Know Your Neighbor article this month, starting on page 8, is Danielle Bayard Jackson. As a teacher, Jackson found herself providing guidance around friendship conflicts. Years later, as the owner of a public relations firm, she found that her professional women clients were struggling with similar issues. Today, as a female friendship coach and educator, she speaks nationally and teaches women how to create and maintain better friendships. Her research and coaching business has led to Jackson being featured all over the country, including in the New York Times, Psychology Today, Wall Street Journal and Oprah Magazine
In this issue, we spotlight Shorecrest Preparatory School. Founded in 1923, Shorecrest has become a pillar for private education and is ranked as one of the top two private high schools and top two PreK-12 schools in the Greater Tampa Bay region. Shorecrest’s goal is to encourage empathetic, independent thinkers who succeed at the university level. This is exemplified by their remarkable 100 percent college acceptance rate of their graduates. Not resting on their laurels, Shorecrest has two new projects that will further benefit their students: The Center for Academic Excellence and the Ross Roeder Institute.
Early development is key to success in school. The Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando County, featured on page 18, has been providing vital support to families with early childhood literacy and development tools since 2005. Their ultimate goal is to empower parents through accessible educational resources so that they can nurture their children’s growth and development.
Learning is not just for our youth. We are always learning. Today, with career changes, technological advancements and life shifts, going back to school has never been easier. Adult students are continuing their education and creating new opportunities.
USF takes great pride in providing opportunities for students of all ages, in both degree enrollment and non-degree enrollment. In the state of Florida, state universities are able to waive fees for “senior” citizens who can audit classes for free. UF Online offers a robust online program for students all over the country and has partnerships with state colleges such as St Petersburg College, HCC and Pasco-Hernando State College for transfer.
This is just a sampling of some of the great articles you will find in this month’s edition. Greater Tampa Bay is known for its top-notch education. From Pre-K to Ph.D., we have some of the best opportunities throughout the region to learn and grow for students of all ages –– emphasizing why Greater Tampa Bay is a great place to Live, Work, LEARN and Play.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue.
Until next issue, Scott
“ Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
— BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
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GETTING SCHOOLED: Greater Tampa Bay's teachers share their funniest classroom moments. | PAGE 16
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While teaching English in Hillsborough County, Danielle Bayard Jackson noticed her female students’ problems centered around one topic. Girls often came to her for guidance on how to navigate friendship conflicts. These challenges significantly impacted their focus, performance and mood.
Jackson discovered girls and adolescents were not the only ones facing these obstacles. Years later, as the owner of Tell Public Relations, her female clients were struggling with similar issues. The professional women she interacted with were charismatic, intelligent, engaging adults who had never learned how to build friendships.
These high-achieving women were successful in other areas of their life but had difficulty creating lasting bonds.
While they would readily seek professional help for career roadblocks or marriage challenges, they had not prioritized female connections.
In seeking guidance for her clients, the publicist quickly learned there were virtually no resources available for navigating adult friendships. Books on the topic were exclusively directed at children.
The University of Florida graduate leveraged her background as an educator to address this growing need. She spent five years diving into the latest research on women's communication and conflict and became certified as a coach.
Today Jackson is a female friendship coach and educator that speaks nationally about the science of women’s platonic connections.
Her coaching business, Friend Forward, is dedicated to teaching women how to create and maintain better female friendships. As a member of the American Sociological Association, the Tampa native uses the latest research to create practical, tangible strategies to help women create more depth in their platonic relationships. She shares her insight weekly on The Friend Forward Podcast
The mother of two has been requested as a speaker by the NFL, NBA and Etsy to foster connections between female employees and family members. Sororities use her powerful advice as keynotes for annual conventions. More businesses are realizing how important relationships are to employee wellbeing and retention.
A Harvard University study spanning 80 years revealed close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives. Jackson is grateful to see more women investing in friendships.
“I hope women start to see friendship as a vital wellness imperative instead of something fun to do on the weekends,” Jackson said. She notes her tools have strengthened all of her own
relationships, including her marriage to her husband, Ryan.
Her expertise has been featured in The New York Times, NBC News, Psychology Today, Wall Street Journal, FORTUNE Magazine and Oprah Magazine. She is the resident friendship expert for the global app Bumble and has several viral videos on TikTok.
Jackson’s insight recently earned her a six-figure book deal. “Fighting for Friendships”, releasing May 2024, is designed to deliver practical, researchbased advice. The book explains the mechanics of female friendships and explores tangible strategies to overcome the top obstacles in conflict.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude to be able to help others create something so deeply personal,” Jackson said. “I want to teach woman how they can contribute to their own friendship story.” n
Danielle Bayard JacksonShorecrest has spent the last 100 years building a one-of-a-kind learning institution. With their community support, commitment to and from families and students and their constant work to provide new educational programs and opportunities, the next 100 years will be even better.
Shorecrest Preparatory School has spent the last century establishing itself as a pillar in the Greater Tampa Bay community. Rich with opportunities for student success, this school is committed to continuing its tradition of excellence in the future.
Founded in 1923, Shorecrest began as a small, open-air school on Northshore Drive in St. Petersburg that primarily served seasonal visitors to the area. Since then, it has become a coed, nonsectarian PK3-12 independent school focused on providing a safe, student-centered environment where a diverse community of students become lifelong learners.
“Our goal is to provide the opportunity for students to discover their passions and find agency for their learning,” said Nancy Spencer, Shorecrest Head of School.
The goal of encouraging empathetic, independent thinkers who succeed at the university level, pursue their passions and lead purposeful lives is exemplified by Shorecrest's remarkable 100 percent college acceptance rate from its graduates.
Local attorney Charles Reynolds started at Shorecrest in 1967 as a pre-K student and was there until he graduated in 1981.
“There were three other students who were in that first pre-K class that graduated with me, and we were the first class to go all the way through to graduation since we did not have 10-12 grades until 1976,” he said.
Reynolds said what he learned at Shorecrest is invaluable to him.
“It is not just academic preparation,” he said. “It is preparation to interact with students, peers, adults and talking in front of others.”
According to Reynolds, Shorecrest also taught him non-traditional skills like how to structure his life and commitments, as well as how to be part of a community.
He also said the school was a passionate effort among families and parents, as they all worked together to make Shorecrest successful. Whatever the need, from fundraising for classroom essentials to supporting its athletic programs, the parents and students would get it done, working side by side.
Centennial Class member Rose Leary said she feels the same way.
“Shorecrest really has a lot of opportunities for you to be involved in and work in a group of people who have the same goals,” she said.
Leary graduated in 2023 and spent her entire academic career at Shorecrest.
In the years that both Reynolds and Leary spent on the campus, it has adapted and changed to continue providing opportunities for its students.
Shorecrest currently has two new projects that are poised to bring even more benefits to its students, the Center for Academic Excellence and The Ross Roeder Institute.
The Center for Academic Excellence is an expansion of the existing Learning
Center at Shorecrest. The Learning Center was launched in the early 2000s and originally provided services like academic tutoring, academic coaching and skill building, individual and group therapies, support for ADHD and Dyslexia and help for students with English as a second language.
“This is something we have always done, but now it will be available to all of our students,” said Spencer.
Recognizing that all students can benefit from the added value of extra support, Shorecrest will launch the center this fall.
The Ross Roeder Institute for Economics, Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship (RRI) is a schoolwide
Charles Reynolds Rose Learyprogram in financial literacy and entrepreneurship. It is the first of its kind at Shorecrest.
“Entrepreneurship is about solving problems,” said Spencer. “The program will be teaching students to do that and then make it on their own.”
The vision for RRI is to enhance the Upper School’s current curriculum in these areas and eventually create a new signature one.
Shorecrest received a $1 million endowment for the program from Jan and Craig Sher and Mary Anne Reilly in honor of Ross Roeder, her late husband, to honor his passion for business, economics and the entrepreneurial spirit.
In May, the school announced that Earl Walton will serve as RRI’s director. Walton has worked more than 20 years in sports marketing and business. He said the entrepreneur in him is excited about building something new, and he is looking forward to connecting with families and the business community through the program.
Walton’s two children are also students at Shorecrest. He will start his new position this August.
Neither of the two new projects, nor any of the success Shorecrest and its students have achieved, would be possible without the dedication of the school's students, faculty and families over the last 100 years. To celebrate their efforts and its history, Shorecrest is holding a Centennial celebration throughout the year with several special events.
Reynolds, who is chairing the celebration, said it is meaningful for all Shorecrest families to know that the school has been in GTB and survived so many different major world events –– the Great Depression, several wars, a pandemic.
“We are proud that we have been here and are part of the history of the area,” Reynolds said.
Spanning the calendar year for 2023, the celebration will host some major events in the fall. On October 21, the From Shore to Shorecrest 5K will take place. The course will begin at the school’s original location at Northshore Drive, where a historical marker will be installed. Appropriately, the finish line will be set at its current home, 5105 First Street NE.
A Centennial Day celebration at the current campus will be held for the community on November 11 with interactive activities, including an original classroom re-created for the event.
The festivities are set to culminate with a black-tie Centennial Gala, held December 2 at the James Museum in St. Petersburg.
For more information about Shorecrest’s Centennial Celebration, go to https://www.shorecrest.org/centennial n
Earl WaltonFOR ALL THE
| BY DEBORAH HOLMÉN, M.ED., NBCT |
Going back to school can be an exciting albeit stressful transition for both kids and parents. With a bit of education and preparation, parents can teach their children executive functioning skills to help them successfully manage their dayto-day lives.
According to Dr. Wendy Rice, a Licensed Psychologist who owns and operates Rice Psychology Group, "The front part of your brain handles executive functioning. You can think of it as your personal administrative assistant. It helps you solve problems, prioritize tasks, organize your day, keep track of time and generally tries to ensure life runs smoothly. Your prefrontal cortex acts as the conductor of the orchestra that is your brain, keeping things in-check and on track with some level of harmony."
"Parents and teachers can teach children the importance of goal setting and how to consistently and persistently work toward their goal until it is achieved,” said Dr. Rice. “To do that, children need to develop some level of mental organization, and the ability to organize physical materials. Prioritizing and visually breaking things down into smaller steps helps our children understand the path they can take to successfully complete the task at hand."
Three critical skill sets must be taught and practiced for children to master:
» WORKING MEMORY is defined as remembering details and recalling them when needed. For example, when reading a book, the reader has to remember what happened in previous chapters.
» EMOTIONAL SELF-CONTROL means staying calm and managing emotions, like not crying during challenging tasks.
» FLEXIBLE THINKING is the ability to move from one activity to another without causing anxiety or confusion. This might look like a middle schooler switching classes easily and effectively.
Teaching kids executive functioning skills has numerous benefits:
» ACADEMIC SUCCESS: Cognitive functioning skills are closely linked to academic achievement. Children with strong thinking skills tend to perform better in school, have higher grades and are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college.
» SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Executive functioning skills also play a critical role in social-emotional development. Children with strong aptitudes for cognitive control can better regulate their emotions, communicate effectively with others and form positive relationships.
» LIFE SUCCESS: Teaching kids how to manage time and focus, how to get and stay organized and how to follow multi-step directions are all skills that will serve them well throughout their adult lives. These tools are essential for succeeding in the workplace, managing finances and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Students often need help staying focused and organized. Fortunately, a few simple tools can help students stay on track and succeed in their studies.
» PLANNERS: Planners and agendas are a great way for students to keep track of their assignments, projects and other important deadlines. Students can write down due dates, set reminders and check off completed tasks, helping them prioritize their work and stay on top of their responsibilities.
» FOLDERS AND BINDERS: Folders and binders are essential for organizing papers and assignments. Students can use different folders or sections to separate subjects or projects, making it easier to find what they need when they need it. This also makes it more likely that assignments get turned in and important papers make it home to parents.
» COLOR-CODING: Color coding is an easy but effective organizational tool that can help students visually organize their materials. For example, they can use different colored highlighters for each subject or to differentiate between types of assignments like homework, projects and tests. This helps to trigger memory with important information.
» ALARMS + DIGITAL REMINDERS: Alarms and digital reminders can also help kids tackle their tasks and assignments. An excellent tool for focus management, alarms can be used for time blocking, which is dedicating specific allocations of time to exclusively one subject or task. Reminders are useful for helping students develop a sense of responsibility and deadline management.
» CLEAN BACKPACK, CLEAN MIND: In addition to an organized agenda, having a well-prepared, uncluttered backpack can help make things run smoother. Backpacks should be packed and organized nightly, making sure to check for necessary supplies and class materials. Doing so minimizes stress throughout the school day, allowing kids to stay focused and on-task.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN’S TOOLS
• Create a daily routine
• Post and share directions — written and spoken instructions
• Homework chart on the fridge
• To-do lists with positive reinforcements — break lists down into smaller parts
Designing an area of the home to organize all education supplies helps create a dedicated learning space. This area can be set up in a separate room or a designated space with a table or desk.
Preparing daily snacks and meals the night before can help make mornings more efficient and stress-free. Organize the fridge with ready-to-grab food. On grocery days, kids can help by cutting vegetables, divvying snacks in baggies or containers, filling water bottles or making simple sandwiches for the next day's lunchbox.
Age-appropriate tools can help students master organizational skills and learn which areas need extra assistance. Using various forms of organizers and devices can alleviate last-minute panic and helps the day run predictably. n
• Egg timer or digital timer
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Analog Clock in the bedroom
MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLER’S TOOLS
• Digital agendas and schedules
• Organization, goal setting apps (listed below)
• Checklists
• Timers
• Sticky notes
• Calendars
• Student Planner Apps
Apps
Apps
• To-Do List
• Note-Taking Apps
• Writing
• Project Management Apps
Flashcard Apps
Apps
•
• Distraction-Blocking
• Habit-Tracking Apps
» Rice Psychology Group – Specializes in all areas of family/child services, including educational assessments and parenting workshops
» Tampa Bay Counseling – Provides multiple services for family and individual counseling
» Tampa Kids Therapy – Teaches developmental skills for all ages
» Tampa Bay Therapists and Associates –Family counseling and coaching
Several local organizations can help parents and families learn more about, and seek help addressing, executive functioning skills.
| BY RYAN WALSH |
Sorry Alice Cooper, the season of syllabi and back to school circulars is here.
Greater Tampa Bay’s hardworking educators love what they do. Years of schooling, decades of experience and countless hours of overtime work have all been spent inspiring the minds of the thousands of children they see each year. It is not all fun and games... except sometimes when it is.
Kids are funny. A classroom full of them can be unpredictable. These teachers on the frontlines prepare for battle each day, unsure of what silliness or misadventures they may encounter at any moment. Presented below are the true accounts of several area educators highlighting some of the zaniest, silliest, most embarrassing moments of their tenured careers.
One anonymous third grade teacher from Tampa remembers a special present she received from a student. No, not a shiny apple fit for a teacher –– it was the gift of a confusing comedic offering that would stand the test of time.
“I’m always so appreciative when students bring gifts on the first and last day of school and at the holidays. Most of the time it’s a gift card, a candle or a little Bath & Body Works set. One Christmas, I had a student give me quite the interesting gift –– a large pair of false eyelashes. I, of course, just said ‘Thank you,’ and gave the student a hug. Later, I shared my confusion and some laughs with my friends in the teachers’ lounge. They all joked how I was going to struggle with the thank you card. And that I would look very glamourous at the Holiday luncheon.
The best part was a few years later, when I had a friend’s child in my class, she had her daughter give me a fresh pair of fake lashes as a gag gift for Christmas. I had forgotten all about it but when I opened that package, I think I laughed so hard the whole school heard me.”
Viveca Elsy teaches anatomy and biology at Countryside High School in Pinellas County. A second-year instructor, Elsy has amassed quite a few awkward encounters. Here she recounts an experience ripped straight from a Van Halen song.
“One time, last year, a student looked at me and said, ‘Oh my gosh, you’re so pretty.’ The student didn’t realize I was the teacher until later when they saw me walk out of the teacher’s lounge. Then I heard her shout loudly, ‘Holy [#@*%]! She’s a teacher!’ She ended up being my student this past year.”
Catherine Perkinson is a colleague of Elsy’s at Countryside. As she warms up for her sophomore year (as a teacher), she left with no shortage of her own stories. She started the year off strong with an embarrassing incident on her first day.
“I was still trying to figure out how to best set up my desk, and I had my laptop plugged in so that the wire hung across the floor. The first few periods I was conscious about stepping over it, but by lunchtime, I completely forgot. I started teaching my fourth period, and stumbled over the wire, launching my laptop across the desk into the wall and nearly sending me to the floor. Thankfully I was able to stay upright. I looked up at the kids and none of them were laughing, thankfully. I think they just felt bad for me since it was my first day. They were all freshmen, so it was their first day of high school, too. I think they were just glad it didn’t happen to one of them.” n
For these teachers, and the many others with thousands of similar stories, summer break may not have been long enough.
For most parents, one priority at or near the top of the list is providing their children with the best education and tools to help them grow and develop. In Greater Tampa Bay, many families have been fortunate to have the assistance of the Early Learning Coalition in Pasco and Hernando (ELCPH) to help them navigate early education for their children.
Since 2005, ELCPH has provided vital support to families with early childhood literacy and development tools. Its primary objective is to lay the foundation for a child’s educational and social-emotional development, preparing them for success in kindergarten and
beyond. Their ultimate goal is to empower parents through accessible educational resources so that they can support and nurture their children’s growth and development.
According to Executive Director Steve Knobl, Ph.D., “Every child, including their caregiver and educator, deserves the best possible resources to help them succeed. Our expertise and commitment to early education continues to propel us into the future as we strive to ensure a high-quality early childhood education for all children and families across our communities.”
At five years old, transitioning to kindergarten is a big change. However, ELCPH believes this transition can become an exciting opportunity for growth and learning with the proper support and resources.
Recently, ELCPH hosted a free Transition to K event, in partnership with Pasco County Libraries in Holiday, Florida. This event aimed to provide VPK families with essential supplies, such as backpacks and school materials, and familiarize them
with new settings, expectations and relationships.
Events like these, where parents are equipped and encouraged in their efforts toward their children’s early learning, are a great way to ease transitions and connect families with valuable community resources.
ELCPH’s Promise Institute provides year-round training for early learning professionals to help them create the best possible learning environment for ELCPH’s programming.
Additionally, the recently implemented family education training platform includes a free virtual workshop called The START Initiative. This initiative provides parents and caregivers with tools and strategies for relationship-based parenting and support during the child’s formative years.
Utilizing the Circle of Security curriculum, the ELCPH teaches healthy attachment and relationships, leading to increased mental wellness, higher self-esteem and emotional stability in children, as well as improved school readiness. By taking advantage of programs like these, that help to develop the whole child, local parents benefit from the ELCPH’s commitment to making a positive impact.
ELCPH's community contributions would not be possible without the support of various organizations. United Way of Pasco and Hernando Counties has been instrumental in funding and ensuring families have access to these critical resources.
To support START or any of ELCPH’s early learning programs, visit https:// elcph.org/donate/
For more information about ELCPH visit www.elcph.org. n
• ELCPH serves approximately 3,500 School Readiness children throughout the year. The School Readiness (SR) program offers financial assistance to eligible families needing affordable quality childcare for children aged birth–12 years old.
• ELCPH prepared 6,250 children for Kindergarten through our Voluntary PreKindergarten (VPK). VPK is a free educational program for all four-year-olds to prepare children for kindergarten.
• ELCPH connects over 9,000 families with community resources. The Child Care Resources and Referrals (CCR&R) program is a free, confidential service that helps families select quality early learning programs for children birth through age five, and for school-age children.
• 231 childcare providers are contracted with the ELCPH in Pasco and Hernando counties.
| BY CELIA GOODYEAR |
It is the time of year when stores are filled with school supplies, and students are getting ready to start another year of their education. Most of them are children or teenagers, making their way through kindergarten to 12th grade. Others, however, are less traditional students.
They are adults who are going back to school.
Even though it is located outside of Greater Tampa Bay, the University of Florida offers a robust online program for students in Gainesville and all over the country. UF is also ranked as one of the top schools for adult learners, according to Best Colleges
UF Online offers degree programs at an affordable cost for students of all ages. The program’s mission is to
Adults go back to school for a variety of reasons. It can be for something as big as a career change or as simple as wanting to learn something new. Regardless of the reason, Florida has a variety of options for adult students.
The University of South Florida in Tampa offers many academic programs to cultivate success for all students including traditional learners, special needs learners, distance learners, veterans and adults who want to advance their careers.
USF offers 180 majors and degree programs in 14 colleges under the Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. The programs range from medicine and the arts to marine science and business. Programs are also available at the graduate, specialist and doctoral levels including a Doctor of Medicine.
The university also offers a variety of non-degree enrollment options for students to enrich their lives, earn certifications, complete a degree started elsewhere or meet pre-admission requirements for graduate degree programs.
USF, as well as all the other state universities, is able to waive fees for “senior” citizens who want to audit courses thanks to Florida state law –– meaning 60+ learners can attend in person classes for free.
For more information, go to: https://www.usf.edu/registrar/ services/non-degree-admission/index.aspx
enable students to lead and influence the next generation and beyond to benefit economics, culture and society by providing a comprehensive offering of high-quality, affordable degree programs online. Various minor programs are offered as well as graduate and certification ones.
For more information, go to: https://ufonline.ufl.edu/ about-us/ n
“A state university may waive any or all application, tuition and related fees for persons 60 years of age or older who are residents of this state and who attend classes for credit...” — FLORIDA STATUTE CHAPTER 1009.26 (4)
Earn a UF degree from anywhere. Your path to the Gator Nation starts here. ufonline.ufl.edu
A new Tampa-themed version of Monopoly will be hitting the shelves in February of 2024. This board game will feature the most “essential parts of Tampa.” It will also include customized Community Chest, Chance cards and Monopoly money to pay homage to the community.
Tampa is the 22nd city to join the City Monopoly Editions line. The creators of this new edition, Top Trumps USA, are even asking Tampa locals to submit their ideas for a chance to be featured in the game.
Peter D’ Abrosca recently launched his startup company, School Shield Security Firm to make school safety stronger. This company offers a film that can be placed over glass, designed to slow down or prevent
forced entry from bullets or other weapons.
The startup and its product focus on enhancing the safety of schools, making it stand out from other existing films. The company is planning to start small and work its way up to ensure that as many schools as possible have this film lining their windows.
Ice Dreammm Shop has been ranked on Yelp’s 100 Best Ice Cream Shops in America. This local shop features house-made waffle cones, handcrafted ice cream, classic root beer floats, brownie sundaes, ice cream pies and more. They even have alcohol-infused and dairy-free ice cream options to appeal to all customers.
Ice Dreammm Shop currently has two locations, one in Lutz and one in Wesley Chapel. Overall, they were
ranked number 34 in the country and number seven in the state for being the best ice cream shop.
Sarasota and Tampa have both been ranked within the top 10 cities that people are moving to in 2023 by PODS, the moving and storage company. With their stunning beaches, quality of life and amazing people, it's no shock that Sarasota earned second place and Tampa earned ninth.
Florida as a whole saw the largest
increase in new residents, earning six areas a ranking within the top 20. A big factor contributing to Florida’s popularity is its economics as residents encounter low tax rates, affordable housing prices and warm weather.
Topgolf opened their eighth Florida location in St. Petersburg on June 30th. This new location will feature 102 outdoor climate-controlled hitting bays across three levels. These bays all have either lounge furniture or high-top tables where groups can gather for a fun golfing experience.
Topgolf prides itself in finding ways to make golf more accessible, diverse
and fun for people. They also like to emphasize that it is not just about golf, as they also offer entertainment through their full-service restaurant, rooftop fire pits, music and more. Located in Carillon Office Park, this location offers easy accessibility to those in Greater Tampa Bay.
A new Mediterranean restaurant, Predalina, is set to open in Water Street Tampa. This restaurant will be
7,000 square feet with a 2,000 square-foot patio and will serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Predalina will have an emphasis on seafood and a curated retail selection.
The restaurant is owned by Allison and Blake Casper, the previous owners of the largest McDonald’s franchise in Florida. It will join their many other concepts under their company, Oxford Commons, and will even pull in some inspiration from their other businesses. The name Predalina pays tribute to the Caspers’ great-grandmother who lived in numerous seaside communities. n
County has seen massive growth and with Murrill’s help, AdventHealth will provide “high-quality whole-person care” to the community.
services to companies of all sizes within the Greater Tampa Bay area. His business now serves more than 200 customers, showcasing his skills in business management and entrepreneurship. He received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Florida.
AdventHealth has named Mike Murrill the new president and CEO for its Pasco locations. Murrill received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Andrews University and a master's in Business Administration from the University of Colorado. He also has two decades of experience in the medical profession.
Previously, Murrill served the Southeast region of AdventHealth in Redmond, Georgia, where he led the area through its transition into the AdventHealth system. In addition to this, he was also the regional CEO. Pasco
Gregory Zolkos was named a finalist for 2023 Tampa Bay Chamber Outstanding Business Leader. The Tampa Bay Chamber is a not-for-profit organization that promotes businesses and business interests. For 43 years, the Chamber has recognized leaders and businesses through their Small Business of the Year Awards.
Zolkos is president and CEO of Atlas Professional Services, providing IT
The Urban Land Institute Tampa Bay recently named Leroy Moore a Global Governing Trustee. The Global Governing Trustees represent and serve as the voice of a broad and diverse membership in substantive
matters facing ULI. Moore previously served as the ULI Tampa Bay chair and is the senior vice president and COO of the Tampa Housing Authority. He has led operations in the development of over 7,300 units of housing across the US with an emphasis on mixed income and mixeduse sustainable development. He also oversees the Tampa Bay Authority’s assisted housing program, contracting, public safety, communications and more.
MIKE MURRILL
TAMPA BAY CHAMBER
URBAN LAND INSTITUTE TAMPA BAY
TAMPA BAY RAYS
Tampa native, Wade Boggs, was inducted into
the Tampa Bay Rays’ Hall of Fame as a member of the inaugural class. The Tampa Bay Rays Hall of Fame was established this year in celebration of the organization’s 25th Anniversary. Boggs made history for the Rays on March 31, 1998, when he hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning of the Rays’ first game, securing the first runs in team history.
Boggs was drafted by the Boston Red Sox where he played from 1982 to 1992, then signed with the Yankees in 1993. He later signed with the Tampa Bay Rays, formerly known as the Devil Rays, in 1998 where he spent the last two seasons of his career. Boggs is a five-time batting champ and 12-time all-star.
RICK VAIL HABITAT FOR HUMANITYHabitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties has recently promoted Rick Vail to chief construction officer. Vail previously served as the vice president of construction for the company. He has been with Habitat for over 11 years and provides families with the opportunity to become homeowners.
As CCO, Vail will be tasked with managing and overseeing
all aspects of construction for Habitat homes from start to finish, including the closing of these homes. The Pinellas and West Pasco branch of Habitat for Humanity has been recognized as the second largest Habitat affiliate in the nation.
STACY BAIER HELIOS EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Dr. Stacy Baier is set to rejoin the Helios Education Foundation as senior vice president. Dr. Baier has
over 25 years of educational philanthropy experience. She has served as the CEO of Pinellas Education Foundation, president and CEO of Florida Philanthropic Network, vice president and program director of College and Career Readiness for Helios and executive director of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations
Dr. Baier received a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida, a PhD in Educational Leadership from the University of Florida and a Master of Education from Harvard University. She was also recognized for the third time in Florida Trend 500’s Most Influential Leaders under the nonprofit/ philanthropy category. n
There are
563 public schools and 344 private schools across Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties
For the 2022-2023 school year, there were
402,272 students enrolled amongst these schools in public schools and
51,404 students enrolled in private schools across the three counties
16:1
Average student to teacher ratio for Hillsborough and Pasco County Public Schools
14:1
The average for Pinellas County Public Schools
The average student to teacher ratio for private schools in Hillsborough County is
Americans spend around $1.15 billion annually on school backpacks alone
Back-to-school items were priced on average, 15% higher than last year
The back-to-school sales tax holiday gives families a break on the 6% sales tax rate
In 2022, 43% of people did their back-to-school shopping online to compare deals
300,000
More than 14 billion pencils are created every year with 1 tree making around pencils
11:1
The average for Pasco and Pinellas Counties is 10:1
In 2022, 52% of students used e-textbooks
Think education ends with school? Think again. To thrive as a businessperson, one must commit to lifelong learning and continuous professional development. It is not just a nice-to-have. It is a must-have. Success in business demands dedication to ongoing education, acquiring new skills and staying up to date with the latest industry trends. By embracing the journey of lifelong learning, individuals open doors to endless opportunities and position themselves for long-term success. Here are several ways to gain new knowledge and expertise.
“Even if you’re on the right track, You’ll get run over if you just stand there.”
—Will Rogers
Some of the most intelligent and accomplished people in the history of the world have written down their best ideas, and many of them can be accessed for free. Books open up entirely new worlds and allow for the expanding of horizons in any direction. Readers can learn from ancient philosophers or current CEOs. Estimates indicate that roughly 11,000 business books and 15,000 self-help books are published annually in the United States.
Yet, despite the clear benefits, many businesspeople still fail to prioritize reading. According to a Gallup survey, only 11 percent of workers reported reading a single business book in the previous six months. Those who invest just 15 minutes a day, five days a week, reading business or personal development books, place themselves in the top one percent in the world for selfimprovement.
No desire to read? No problem ––listen to audiobooks or watch YouTube videos. I would not think of getting in my car for a long drive without having an audiobook picked out. For short trips, there are thousands of excellent podcasts to learn from. I also spend time each week watching YouTube videos from some of the top business experts in the world. With the benefit of today's social media platforms, anyone can view lectures and educational seminars that typically cost thousands of dollars to attend, completely free of charge.
The Association for Talent Development noted that the average employee spends approximately 34 hours per year on training and development activities. On the other hand, a Harvard Business Review study showed that high-performing leaders spend an average of six hours per week on learning and development activities. That is more than 300 hours a year. Education is certainly an investment in terms of time, but the ROI is astronomical.
The case for investing time and money to learn new ideas has been made. Interestingly, it is just as critical to “unlearn” things that no longer work. Everyone knows about IQ; most people know about EQ (your emotional quotient, often called emotional intelligence). However, few people are familiar with AQ –– the Adaptability Quotient. AQ is an individual's ability to adapt, adjust and thrive in the face of change, uncertainty and new challenges. As new knowledge is gained, it must also be matched with the courage to let go of outdated and irrelevant ideas.
Maintaining curiosity and a thirst for knowledge is vital to success in business. Really, though, there is no choice. As Will Rogers once said, “Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just stand there.” n
It is said that the whole of something is greater than the sum of its parts. Nowhere is that truer than the communities and neighborhoods that make up the City of Clearwater.
Unique in their culture and geography, Clearwater’s neighborhoods define the area like few other cities. Its beautiful beaches are known across the country, but its real asset is the large, diverse resident population.
“When it comes to Clearwater, tourists think of the beach,” said Clearwater Neighborhood Services Division Manager Samantha Moullet. “We have an entire city outside of that that people call home.”
Moullet manages relationships and supports the city’s more than 100 neighborhoods. As the division manager, she helps to provide resources to empower and strengthen
the community bonds within them.
“There’s a lot of history in Clearwater, and in Clearwater’s neighborhoods,” Moullet said. “We just helped one neighborhood celebrate its 100th anniversary, for example, and we have another neighborhood celebrating its 100th anniversary next year.”
Over 38 of the area’s communities held block parties to celebrate Neighborhood’s Day, an annual tradition among the city’s residents. Each year, new neighborhoods in Clearwater apply to take part; this year’s celebration alone saw five first-time participants. Everyone gets involved in these family-oriented festivities. Fire trucks and police K9 units entertain and educate children while city council members visit each of the local celebrations.
Historically known as South Greenwood, the Lake Belleview neighborhood is a living testament to Clearwater’s earliest roots. The community is centered around the neighborhood’s eponymous lake, and many of its roughly 3,000 residents can trace their families to the area by several generations.
“People who were raised here remind us about the history,” said Community Services Foundation Executive Director Ed Thiebe. He cited historical buildings like the Plum House, built in 1896, and organizations like the Clearwater Horseshoe Club, founded in 1916.
Thiebe and the CSF are currently working on the Restore Lake Belleview project, a collaborative effort with local businesses and organizations to revitalize the lake. This longawaited major cleanup project and infrastructure overhaul will ensure the lake’s usability while bringing a source of pride to the community.
“There’s a sense of pride and history in Lake Belleview,” said Thiebe. “Residents take a lot of pride in preserving their neighborhood.”
Also called ‘The Grove,’ North Greenwood is a historic, tightknit community located just north of the Memorial Causeway. North Greenwood touches the shores of the Intercoastal, and is home to libraries, schools, recreation centers and parts of the Pinellas Trail
North Greenwood is home to a
historically Black population, and the generations of culture and community are felt to this day. Home to a formerly thriving Black business community, the neighborhood has worked tirelessly to reinvigorate this underserved area.
Since 2019, North Greenwood was deemed a Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) by the Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition (CULC). Under the CRA, the neighborhood’s 6,600 residents will see efforts aimed at creating affordable housing, preserving cultural resources and improving overall quality of life.
One project at a time, the Plaza Park neighborhood is beautifying their surroundings. From implementing pollinator gardens in the park to decorating the storm drains with paint, residents are coming together to make a name for their humble neighborhood.
The Plaza Park Neighborhood Association, established in 2020, is helping to lead this charge for change. Founder and President Chelsea Gird is raising three children in Plaza Park, aiming to create a safe and sustainable neighborhood for families. n
This summer, downtown Clearwater opened an exciting new live music venue in The Sound. Located in Coachman Park, this 9,000-seat amphitheater sits on 19 acres, and will feature performances all year. The latest in a series of developments to the downtown Clearwater area, The Sound is sure to be a hit for family outings, date nights or any occasion.
Its first several shows will feature the following artists:
1. Kenny Loggins –Saturday, September 16, 2023
2. Sammy Hagar and the Circle –Saturday, October 28, 2023
3. Chris Young –Friday, November 10, 2023
With school starting around the corner, I always try to come up with different school lunch ideas for the new year to experiment with. This past year I packed charcuterie boxes, flatbreads and sushi. This year I decided to take pizza to the next level with a nod to my childhood. I don’t know about you but I can’t say Hot Pockets without singing it like comedian Jim Gaffigan from one of his Netflix standup specials. Hot Pockets, Totinos Pizza and Bagel Bites were a thing when I was growing up. We ate them as a snack with friends or in the afternoon when we got home from school. I haven’t eaten one of these
since college but I wanted to take a stab at making a homemade version for my kid’s lunches so they could experience a better version of what I had as a kid. This version has better quantity and quality of ingredients, and one of my son Cameron’s favorite toppings, pineapple. A hand-held pizza, what a great lunch option! The crust was crunchy with a garlic seasoning flavor on the outside and a melty gooey center stuffed with meaty toppings. The bonus about making it homemade versus the frozen version is that every bite has the same temperature center; no ice cold and piping hot spots. The smell coming from our oven was driving us all crazy when we baked it so we couldn’t wait to break into them.
Like the OG, we still burned the roof of our mouths when we bit into it although I will say, this time it was better than I remembered. n
Recipe provided by Chef Christy Robinson-Costello, Chef + Publisher of Eat.Local.Together
https://www.eatlocaltogether.com/recipes/recipe/hawaiian-pizza-hot-pockets
Why JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa is the perfect local get away
| BY RYAN WALSH , CHRISTY ROBINSON-COSTELLO |Proudly overlooking the shimmering waters of the Gulf of Mexico is the newest hotel in Greater Tampa Bay –– the JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa. This luxury lodging sits at the tail-end of Clearwater Beach, adjacent to the Sand Key Bridge.
A sleek, modern design catches the eye immediately, as large open spaces facilitate an air of breeziness and relaxation.
The hotel had its grand opening celebration on May 1, 2023. Hundreds in attendance listened raptly to Marriott International Chairman of the Board David Marriott and owner Dr. Kiran Patel as they provided opening remarks.
The project spent seven years in development at a cost of over $200 million. COVID-19 was, in part, responsible for some of the delay –– but the wait is proving to have been worth it.
GTB locals can now experience the prestige and luxury of an international resort in the comfort of their own backyard. Each of the 192 rooms at the JW Marriott Clearwater Beach boasts a private balcony with views of the water. The hotel amenities also include a luxuriously, intimate spa; a 24-hour fitness center, including two peloton bikes; bicycle rentals for resort guests, a kid’s club, a rooftop pool, and 3 restaurants, including upscale Mediterranean dining and a rooftop bar/ restaurant experience.
That is just the start.
The JW Marriott Clearwater Beach is home to three distinct restaurants: The Deep End, Latitude 28 and Eskape–Beach Bar and Grille. Open to the public, these eateries provide local residents with an exotic, resort feel.
Eskape is a classic American beachside restaurant offering lunch and mid-day meal options, either on sand or out on the terrace where the boats drive by and the air smells like sea salt. For lunch, select the blackened grouper, mahi-mahi tacos or burgers for some of their elevated classics –– familiar and refined.
The Deep End is an energetic rooftop spot with unique menus for lunch and dinner. Next to the rooftop pool, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the Gulf and Intercoastal. It has a large bar with big screen TVs, perfect for catching a game or enjoying a happy hour cocktail. Delicious samplings such as tuna tacos, yuca fries and salmon bowls can be enjoyed inside or even poolside. The Deep End also has a seafood tower stocked with juicy
lobster tail, two types of seafood tartar, crab claws, oysters and jumbo shrimp. The perfect mix of Florida seafood and Nikkei cuisine.
Latitude 28, the hotel’s signature restaurant, has a modern, eccentric vibe, featuring a menu rich with Mediterranean classics. Start with a smoked burrata salad, delicious tapenade and muhammara shareable spreads served with homemade warm pita and crudités. Experience their unique, decadent flavors with the lamb chops
Private Balconytopped with pea puree and apricot glaze or the flaky, whole branzino served with a saffron risotto and black garlic sauce. Perfectly complemented by a large wine selection, considerate of all budgets, Latitude 28 is the spot for a romantic date night or an energetic start to the evening with friends. Snag a table next to the linen draped, floor-to-ceiling
windows overlooking the palm trees and Gulf of Mexico. For breakfast, sip a cup of coffee and enjoy their breakfast buffet that includes made to order omelets, charcuterie, fresh baked pastries, fresh fruit and much more.
This is the definition of rest and relaxation. The spa is intimate and cozy, designed with the same elegant coastal motif found throughout the rest of the resort. The aromas of sea salt, sandalwood and essential oils permeate the spa’s lounge room, steam room and sauna. Massage treatments are offered among the usual services, and the technicians are attentive and experienced. A perfect place to recharge
for busy GTB professionals, or for a classic girls-day outing, there is no better place for guests to put their feet up and scrub their worries away.
The hotel is replete with conference rooms and event spaces for any event imaginable –– 18,546 square feet of space, to be exact. Two expansive ballrooms, perfect for wedding receptions or corporate gatherings, bear the names of the owner’s family members. Private conference rooms are bedecked with comfortable seating, high-tech devices and, of course, views of the Gulf. Not to mention, the endless possibilities on the sand- the ideal wedding ceremony or celebration venue.
More than a fantastic vacation spot, the JW Marriott Clearwater Beach can be home. Snowbird in style in their one- to three-bedroom residence-style suites and have access to all of the resort’s great amenities.
Whether from GTB or beyond, time spent at the JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort is well worth it. n
Raising resilient children is an essential part of parenting. Resilience is the capacity to cope with stress and disappointment, a quality that can be taught and developed in children.
A resilient child can better handle life's curveballs and use them as opportunities to grow and learn.
According to Vanessa McCroskey, the Educators’ Program Director of the North Carolina Outward Bound School (NCOBS), “In our current post-pandemic stage, parents are concerned about their children's social isolation. Kids have become accustomed to using technology to communicate with others rather than utilizing their natural social skills and are dealing with anxiety, lack of predictability and low motivation.”
NCOBS is part of a national network of Outward Bound Schools across the US and runs its programs in North
Carolina, Florida and Argentina. Outward Bound USA is an outdoor education program using experiential learning, challenge and adventure to encourage personal growth and greater self-awareness in a group setting.
Through activities such as backpacking, mountaineering, kayaking and canoeing, participants are encouraged to push their physical and emotional boundaries in order to develop stronger problem solving and teamwork skills. Their Florida chapter also includes sailing in its programming.
According to McCrosky, these types of experiences are becoming the gold-standard in teaching children resiliency.
“In researcher post-course surveys in 2022, 84% of our students in multi-day Outward Bound Professional Learning Lab courses reported that they gained courage to face challenges.”
1. Talk About Feelings: Talking openly with children about their emotions helps them understand that it is normal to feel different ways, especially when faced with difficult situations. Make sure to validate their feelings and give them strategies for managing their emotions.
2. Set Goals and Celebrate Successes: Encourage children to set realistic goals and help create a plan for achieving them. Celebrate successes and encourage them to keep going even when things get tough.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is being aware and present in the moment. Teaching children mindfulness can help them better manage their emotions and handle stress.
4. Teach Problem-Solving: Problem-solving is a skill that can help children better work through stressful situations. Encourage children to break a problem into smaller pieces and devise creative solutions.
5. Encourage Self-Care:
Self-care is essential for maintaining emotional and physical well-being. Practicing healthy self-care, such as eating nutritious meals, getting enough sleep and exercising, helps children become responsible for their overall health.
resilience by focusing on the positive. Teaching children to be grateful for the things they have, instead of focusing on what they do not, helps create compassion.
7. Provide Support and Guidance: Resilient children need supportive relationships to help them through difficult times. Ensuring that children know they can always count on an adult or caregiver for guidance and support helps them develop coping skills.
8. Model Resilience: Show children how to handle difficult situations with grace and determination. Sharing experiences and stories of perseverance and overcoming challenges builds a bridge of learned experiences on which children can reflect.
9. Foster Independence: Resilient children learn to rely on themselves in difficult situations. Children should take on new challenges and make decisions independently.
10. Nurture a Growth Mindset: A growth mindset means believing everyone can learn and grow, no matter what. Teach children to be open to feedback and to never give up.
“The comfort, learning and danger zones are essential concepts for children to understand,” McCrosky said.
“The comfort zone is a place for children to feel safe and secure. This is where they are most comfortable and can easily relax. The learning zone allows children to explore new activities and gain new skills. They may feel uncomfortable in this space, but it is a safe place to challenge themselves and grow. The danger zone is outside of the comfort and learning zones. This is a place of extreme discomfort where children may become overwhelmed and shut down. It is important for children to understand these boundaries and to be aware of their own physical, emotional and mental limits.” n
FUN 4 TAMPA KIDS
A clearinghouse of character and leadership events and programs for kids like Boys Scouts, Girl Scouts, Pace Center for Girls, Faith-based programs, Military Youth programs, Daughters of Destiny Girls Mentoring Program and more.
OUTWARD BOUND USA
Leading provider of outdoor education programs that allow young people to explore their personal potential.
DERRICK BROOKS CHARITIES
Their Youth Programs provide an empowering environment for young people to foster respect for themselves, their family and their community. Such initiatives are designed to strengthen youth resilience and protective factors that promote responsibility.
Friday Fun Day at Empower Adventures
Tampa Bay
SEPTEMBER 8, 4–5PM
https://www.facebook.com/even ts/697550238821044/697550252154376/
Tampa Bay Water Lantern Festival
SEPTEMBER 16, 5–9PM
https://www.waterlanternfestival.com/tampa.php
SEPTEMBER 9, 8AM–12PM
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2023-make-adifference-fishing-for-adults-with-disabilitiespier-60-registration-654018746677
Candela Pura Latin Food and Music Festival
SEPTEMBER 16, 2PM
https://allevents.in/tampa/candelapura-latin-food-and-musicfestival/200024816423457
Fall Family Fest
SEPTEMBER 23
11AM–3PM
https://www.waterlanternfestival.com/ tampa.php
The North Tampa Bay Chamber held a bustling business breakfast at PascoState Hernando College on June 6th. President of BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel Rebecca Schulkowski shared the success of BayCare, and specs about their beautiful, brand new hospital.
| PHOTOS BY JENSEN TAYLOR
Amplify Clearwater held their June Chamber on Tap at the beautiful AC Hotel Clearwater Beach. Members enjoyed a summer evening filled with great company, delicious appetizers and refreshing drinks near the glittering pool.
Great time at the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s Coffee & Commerce Networking event held on June 27th at Raining Berries. | PHOTOS COURTESY LISA MOORE
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| PHOTOS BY JENSEN TAYLOR
On June 27th, the Tampa Downtown Partnership hosted their 37th Annual Meeting & Luncheon at the JW Marriott Water Street. They celebrated members, shared both the TDP's accomplishments and the great things happening in the community, as well as inducted the Partnership's new leadership. Featured speaker, Tama Duffy Day, an expert on community inclusivity and multigenerational spaces and incoming Board Chair Jin Liu hosted a fireside chat
PHOTOS BY JENSEN TAYLOR
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Members and guests of the Westshore Alliance met on June 22nd for the membership luncheon at Aloft/Element Tampa Midtown. Panelists Archie Collins of Tampa Electric, Nicholas Haines of The Bromley Companies and Dan Woodward of Highwoods Properties discussed the return of TECO Energy to Westshore during a conversation moderated by Michael Maurino.
| PHOTOS BY JENSEN TAYLOR
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On June 28th, the City of Clearwater had the much anticipated Coachman Park Ribbon Cutting, follwed by a Cheap Trick concert at the Sound.
| PHOTOS BY JENSEN TAYLOR
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