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NEW PORT RICHEY – Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside put shovels into the ground May 19 to mark the beginning of the build process for seven homes on Kiowa Drive.  

The groundbreaking ceremony included the future homeowner families, Habitat staff, community supporters and elected officials. The homes are expected to be completed by this fall.

“This is another important step for Habitat in West Pasco County,” said Mike Sutton, president and CEO at Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside. “We are thrilled we could purchase these lots and build seven homes that will sit side-by-side and be owned by seven families going through the Habitat homeownership program. These families will be neighbors and be able to support one another for years to come.”

This area of New Port Richey has provided ample opportunity for Habitat to build new homes for families. Three streets away on Teak Street, Habitat has built six homes in the last 18 months.

Habitat for Humanity has served over 900 homeowner partners since 1985. The affiliate serves Pinellas, West Pasco and Hernando counties. 

Volunteers and future homeowners construct the homes, which are sold and financed with a zero-interest loan. Habitat homeowner candidates earn 30% to 80% of the area median income. Candidates must demonstrate the need for adequate shelter; the ability to pay back a zero-interest loan; and the willingness to partner with Habitat to complete a robust homebuyer education curriculum and invest 350 to 450 “sweat equity” hours. 

Mortgage monies are used to build even more homes, making each donation to Habitat a perpetual legacy to the community. 

Publix Supermarket Charities is sponsoring all seven homes. This will bring Publix’s home sponsorship total with Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside to 26 homes. 

Below are the families that have been working toward homeownership. 

 

The Blackshear Family

Maggie Blackshear and her 10-year-old twin granddaughters, A’Keena and A’Kacia, are excited to have a new beginning in their Habitat home. 

The family of three is currently living in a one-bedroom apartment where the twins sleep in the bed while Maggie sleeps on the sofa. 

“Our life will be different in our Habitat home because we will no longer be paying rent,” Maggie said. “We will be paying a mortgage to our forever home – somewhere that we will always be safe and secure.” 

Maggie is excited to decorate the house with her girls and to cook meals in her new kitchen.

 

The Dorsey Family

Danyelle and Justin Dorsey and their two daughters, Layla (8) and Liyah (4), are on their journey towards homeownership, which will bring the family a sense of stability and comfort. They currently live in an income-based townhome complex that is uncomfortable and undesirable due to the lack of space and unaddressed maintenance issues. 

“Justin and I are working together as a team to give our girls the loving, stable home we didn’t have growing up,” Danyelle said. The family is excited to have a yard to play and have family grill-outs in. “We will feel better about letting the girls play outside because we will have the space for them to do so.”

 

The Fisher Family

Alicia Fisher is a hardworking single mother to her 5-year-old son, Tristan. 

The two enjoy spending time together at the park, visiting the beach or advocating for Autism, which Tristan is diagnosed with. 

Alicia is eager to provide stability for herself and her son in their new home. She not only wants to have a safe place for Tristan but his friends as well. She has always wanted a place where her son’s friends can come over to play. 

“Being a part of this journey has been meaningful to me,” Alicia said. “Not only am I learning to budget and build a home, but I am also meeting all kinds of new people that will be lifelong friends.”

 

The McLeod Family

Life has been a challenge for Johnnie Mcleod and her grandson (now adopted son) Tazarious. 

The family of two is determined to overcome all life’s obstacles and create a lifetime of happiness and prosperity with the help of Habitat for Humanity. 

After experiencing high rent prices, difficult living conditions and even homelessness, the family is ready for a new beginning. 

“Our new beginning will consist of stability and affordability,” Johnnie said. 

She and Tazarious are excited to have a yard where they can hang out and enjoy the beauties of the world. 

“This home will be a starting point of new memories, new expectations and new blessings,” she said. 

 

The Rodrigues-Hart Family

Anna Hart, a 19-year-old college student, and her mother, Claudia Rodrigues, have been living in a one bedroom apartment for the past eight years. 

The limited space causes many frustrations and has left them with many sleepless nights and no privacy or space to call their own. 

Getting accepted into the Habitat program brought Anna and Claudia a lot of relief and gratitude. 

“Our house will be someplace I look forward to coming home to,” Anna said. “Somewhere I pull up to and smile knowing all the work it took for it to be there.” 

The mother-daughter duo is most excited about the sense of security their forever home will bring. They will no longer have to worry about their rent being raised and will finally have the privacy of their own bedrooms and bathrooms that they have been longing for.

 

The Seija Family

Miriam Seija is a single woman from Colombia who came to America looking for a better future. Now, she is doing the same with Habitat and is looking forward to the peace and tranquility her forever home will bring her. 

Before being accepted into the program, Miriam faced many hardships including the death of her husband, her own medical issues and the struggle to find a safe and affordable place to live.

After learning about the Habitat program, Miriam was determined to make her dream come true of owning a home and having time to herself in the comfort of a house that she can call her own.

 

The Wiggins Family

For the past five years, Quytesha Wiggins has been dreaming of becoming a homeowner. Her dream will finally come true with the help of the Habitat program. 

Quytesha is a single woman who loves to laugh, spend time with family and listen to music. With increasing rent prices over the past few years, she has had to pick up an extra job which has caused her to miss out on spending time with her family. 

She imagines life in her new Habitat home to be peaceful and is eager to create generational wealth for her future family. 

Quytesha hopes that one day her home will become the place where her family hosts holiday gatherings and they can make many new memories together.

 

DADE CITY – The Heritage Arts Center Association gives a $1,000 Nereim Fine Arts Award each year in honor and memory of founding members Gordon and Jean Nereim.

Their love of the arts lives on through this award. Talented seniors in Pasco County schools submit artwork (paintings, sculpture, drawing or photography) each spring to be considered. 

Due to a generous grant from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation this year, the organization was able to present $1,000 art awards to seniors Colette Hanke and Lindsey Overland.

Colette, of Academy at the Lakes, has had a fascination with art since childhood. Colette submitted an acrylic painting, created to experiment with the “cell shading” style.  She used a white charcoal pencil to sketch out the piece and then blocked out the light and shadow for the process. Her painting depicted an artist’s workspace, with a blank canvas – suggesting the endless possibilities of creation. Her teacher is Matthew Paltoo.  

Lindsey’s primary field of interest is illustration. The Cypress Creek High School senior plans to attend Ringling College of Art and Design. She submitted a mixed media piece of birds with pearl craft stickers on canvas, which reflected the theme of femininity and connectedness. Her teacher is Zach Krieder

Because of the large number and quality of entries this year, the Heritage Arts Center Association also named Brianna Mercado and Alenna Raza as Honorable Mention artists.  

The Heritage Arts Center Association will feature these four artists at the Moonlight and Ivory concert and art show held Nov. 1 at Dade City’s Woman’s Club. 

On the web: heritagearts.org

 

TAMPA – The Florida Small Business Development Center at University of South Florida recognized top professionals May 14 during the 2025 Florida SBDC at USF Annual Business Awards.
Winners are now eligible for Florida SBDC Network state awards. State award winners will be announced at the Network’s Annual Conference this coming August in Tampa.
During the awards, the Florida SBDC at USF was also recognized with the SBA 2025 Small Business Development Center of the Year Award by the U.S Small Business Administration.
“Our Florida SBDC at USF Annual Business Awards continues to be a great opportunity to celebrate entrepreneurship and recognize the Florida SBDC professionals who help businesses in our 10-county Tampa Bay region thrive,” said Carl Hadden, regional director of the Florida SBDC at USF. “We are fortunate enough to have a dedicated team, who worked tirelessly to make this a successful event, and honored to have been selected as the 2025 State of Florida SBDC Center of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration.”
Below is a list of all the award winners.

Florida SBDC Performance Awards
• Team Spirit of the Year: Bill Burnham
• Rising Star of the Year: Debra Schweikowsky
• Performance Excellence Award: Randy Hayes
• Ambassador of the Year Award: Stephanie Ordonez
• Resource Partner of the Year: Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce
• Graduate Student Team Project of the Year: Lithium Battery Company (University of Tampa)
• Undergraduate Student Team Project of the Year: Pinoy Cravings (Florida Southern College)

Florida SBDC at USF Small Business Awards
• SBDC Start Up Business of the Year: ABA on Demand LLC
• SBDC Export Business of the Year: Collective Circularity LLC
• SBDC Businessperson of the Year: Salty Roots Salon, LLC
• SBDC Veteran-Owned Business of the Year: Spectrum Custom Molds and Manufacturing
• SBDC Fastest Growth Business of the Year: Siloam Medical dba Beatific Vision
• SBDC Government Contractor of the Year: Onyx Cleaning Services, LLC
• SBDC Woman-Owned Business of the Year: Little Law, P.A.

SBA Small Business Awards
• SBA 2025 Small Business Development Center of the Year: Florida SBDC at USF
• SBA 2025 South Florida District & State Exporter of the Year: Yo Mama’s Foods Co.
• SBA 2025 South Florida District & State Small Businessperson of the Year: Point Summit
• SBA 2025 South Florida District Veteran Business Owner of the Year: PVM, Inc.
• 2025 Top SBA Certified Development Company Lender: Florida Development Corporation
• 2025 Top Lender by Number of Loans to Rural Businesses: SouthState Bank
On the web: sbdctampabay.com/award/

 

TAMPA – Saint Leo University celebrated the Class of 2025 along with some “firsts” as more than 1,400 students crossed the stage in two commencement ceremonies May 7 at the Florida State Fairgrounds.

Twelve students proudly claimed the title of “first” as they are Saint Leo’s first graduates in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program in the College of Health Professions. They participated in a pinning ceremony May 5, pledging to uphold the ethical, scientific and legal standards of their profession. 

Emma Hayhurst, of Merrimack, New Hampshire, said she chose Saint Leo because of the university’s dedication to building a new nursing program. 

“Additionally, Saint Leo’s strong values of compassion, integrity and service reflect the kind of nurse I aspire to be,” said Hayhurst, one of the first graduates.

Another student celebrating being “first” was Forgive Semackor, of Riverview, who became the first graduate in Saint Leo’s Bachelor of Arts in Music Program in 30 years. Saint Leo once again began offering a music major in fall 2023.

“I knew I wanted to be a teacher, and when I found out Saint Leo was re-introducing the major, I decided that it would be a great choice to teach a subject that I was really passionate about,” Semackor said.

The commencement ceremonies also provided an opportunity to recognize the contributions made by two longtime supporters and benefactors of the university. Edward Dadez was named president emeritus, having retired in February after serving as the university’s 11th president. Dadez also is an alumnus who earned a Master of Business Administration degree in 2002.

“During his tenure, Dr. Dadez addressed the challenges that Saint Leo University was facing, he led the faculty and staff, changing the culture of the university, and ensured that Saint Leo had a strong focus on students and their success,” said Edwin Narain, chair of the board of trustees.

Receiving an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree was trustee and alumnus John Picciano, who is the CEO of Oglethorpe Inc. As a student, Picciano served as the president of his fraternity and the Interfraternity Council. He continued a life of service to his community, making a difference in the lives of those with mental health and addiction issues. And he continued his lifelong contributions to his alma mater.

 

Morning Ceremony

Graduating during the morning ceremony were University Campus undergraduate students; master’s degree students in accounting, business administration, computer science, cybersecurity and psychology; and Doctor of Business Administration students.

Recognized as valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2025 with a 4.0 GPA was Kristina Arwady, of Altamonte Springs, who graduated summa cum laude with bachelor’s degrees in management and medical humanities: pre-med with a minor in Spanish and from the Honors Program. Arwady also was a member of the women’s soccer team.

“Over the last three and a half years, Saint Leo University has become my family,” Arwady said. “The people have made this place home, and I am so grateful for the many opportunities and experiences I have had here.” 

Jacqueline Pollok, of Dade City, was the campus salutatorian, graduating summa cum laude with bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice: homeland security and international studies. She also graduated from the Honors Program and was the recipient of the 2025 Clara McDonald Olson Scholarship Excellence Award.

Giving the morning commencement address was Dr. Lauren Wittenberg Weiner, founder and former CEO of WWC Global, an organization dedicated to helping military spouses find career opportunities. In 2018, WWC Global won the largest contract to a woman-owned business in U.S. Special Operations Command headquarters (Tampa) history — the headquarters for the U.S. Navy SEALs and U.S. Army Green Berets. Annual revenue for WWC reached $100 million before Wittenberg Weiner sold it in 2022.

Her advice to the new graduates: Don’t be afraid to take a different path. 

“In my own life, it was the times that I took a huge pivot from what everyone seemed to expect from me that I found my biggest success,” Wittenberg Weiner said. “Thanks to an amazing mentor who guided me the first time I even contemplated taking a path that was different than what was laid out for me, I realized something: Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you have to.”

Wittenberg Weiner said she gathered the information from her naysayers, weighed each decision carefully. 

“I’ll tell you that the four-word response that fueled more of my success than any other words: ‘Oh really? Watch me,” Wittenberg Weiner told the graduates.

Admitting to being a “goody two-shoes,” Wittenberg Weiner said she found ways to upend expectations without breaking the rules. 

“As a young overachiever, I got really good at knowing all of the rules and all of the expectations,” Wittenberg Weiner said. “But what I didn’t realize until later is that there is a ton of space, in both those written and unwritten rules, to find your own authentic path to your own version of success.”

 

Afternoon Ceremony

Graduating during the afternoon ceremony were Center for Online Learning and education center undergraduate students; World Campus students (studying internationally); master’s degree students in creative writing, criminal justice, education, education specialist, instructional design, social work, and theology; and doctoral students in criminal justice and education.

Being recognized among students from Saint Leo’s Center for Online Learning were top performers, graduating summa cum laude with a 4.0 cumulative GPA, were Frances Wesby from Grovetown, Georgia, who earned a bachelor’s in business administration, and Kamera Woodruff from Madison, who earned a bachelor’s in elementary education.

The top performer for Saint Leo’s graduating seniors from its education centers, with a 4.0 cumulative GPA and graduating summa cum laude, was Leslie Willis from Brooksville, who earned a bachelor’s in elementary education.

Giving the commencement address for the afternoon ceremony was retired Maj. Gen. James S. Hartsell, executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Hartsell, who earned the nickname “Hammer,” leads the 1,500-member department responsible for serving the nation’s third largest veteran population. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps with honor for 37 years of active and reserve duty, beginning as an enlisted Marine in 1981 and completing distinguished and highly decorated military career as a major general. 

A native of Florida, Hartsell’s 22-year civilian career in the health care industry included serving in marketing, product management, U.S. and global business development, hospital administration and health care leadership. Upon retirement from the Marine Corps, he moved back to Florida and joined the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, where he launched the Future Operations Division.

Hartsell said his “mission will be accomplished” if the students kept a key word, key phrase and a key memory that “you can carry with you in your heart, your mind and your spirit as you embark on your exciting new life pathways as graduates of Saint Leo University.”

That key word he hopes they use for the rest of their lives is “resilience,” and the key phrase is “be the change: say ‘I will.’” The key memory is their fellow alumnus, Evin B. Hartsell, who earned a bachelor’s in psychology in 2016 and master’s in business posthumously in 2018.

Evin, the Hartsells’ second son, was born with a rare congenital neuromuscular dystrophy disease. While he was never able to walk and had to use a ventilator to breathe, he was filled with “self-generated determination to make a difference in the world by finding ways to help others to better themselves,” Hartsell said. “He did this by becoming a Big Brother counselor; an advocate by volunteering at the James R. Haley Veterans Medical Center; by helping charter the Phoenix Rising Power wheelchair soccer team; by helping to charter the Kappa Sigma fraternity at Saint Leo Leo; and by writing an autobiography that he entitled Abled in a Disabled World where he boldly shares his life’s journey of physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual challenges and discouragements and disappointments, and yet eventually his life victories.

“Graduates, like your fellow Saint Leo alumnus Evin Hartsell, regardless of what life circumstances you may find yourself in after today, you too can choose to be resilient and to be the change for the better.”

 

LAND O’ LAKES – Members of the District School Board of Pasco County approved a proclamation designating May 5 to 9 as Teacher Appreciation Week.

Each member also took some time to express gratitude for the work of Pasco County Schools  teachers. These were not hollow words as most school board members have experience in education while one member, Colleen Beaudoin, fought back tears during her remarks. 

Here is what each member had to say: 

 

Colleen Beaudoin, District 2

We often see students come to our board meetings for recognitions that include outstanding achievements in science fair and National History Day; our Cambridge, IB, AP recognition; artistic and musical performances; athletics; and more. 

The accomplishments of these students are in a large part made possible because of the dedicated teachers in this district who provide extra opportunities and support both inside and outside the classroom. 

I just want to thank all the teachers who go that extra mile to challenge and coach our remarkable students. 

There are also many students who we do not have the privilege of recognizing at our meetings. These students are also remarkable and they too have compassionate teachers who work tirelessly to help them reach their goals. 

Thank you for not giving up on our students who have special challenges and needs. Thank you for providing accommodations and for taking time to speak with concerned parents.

Thank you for helping that seventh-grader overcome a paralyzing fear of large spaces, so that one day he could deliver a thesis presentation in a packed university auditorium. 

Thank you for not giving up on the student who struggled with writing, so that one day\ he could type that paper and share his research. 

Thank you for spending time with the young lady who needed additional help with math, so that she could go on to become a nurse and help others. 

Thank you for seeing past the challenging behaviors and seeing the potential in every child. Being a teacher is not for the faint of heart. It is hard. I am grateful for all you do for our students and our families. You are exceptional. 

Thank you for your dedication, professionalism and passion during Teacher Appreciation Week and always. 

 

Megan Harding, District 5 

As a former teacher and now a proud member of our school board, I want to take a moment during Teacher Appreciation Week to thank you, not for just what you do, but for who you are. 

I know firsthand that teaching is not just a profession, it’s a calling, it’s early mornings, long evenings and 100 small decisions each day that shape lives in ways most people never see.

You Inspire curiosity, meet challenges with resilience and show up day after day with dedication and heart. The impact you have goes far beyond test scores and report cards. You’re shaping confidence, building character and helping students see the potential in themselves – sometimes before they can even see it on their own. 

As someone who has walked in your shoes, I see you, I appreciate you and I want you to know that your work matters. It matters deeply. 

Thank you for your service, your passion and your unwavering commitment to our students. 

Know that this week, and every week, I celebrate and I’m thankful for you. 

 

Cynthia Armstrong, District 3

I do want to express my gratitude and how proud I am of our teachers and the staff that support them.

Often at the end of a hard day, a teacher thinks, “Am I really doing anything constructive here? Am I having an impact?”

But I just want to say, it’s a career of delayed gratification. It’s after you’ve been a teacher for years and the students grow up and then they come back and visit you or see you in the gym and say, “You were my teacher. You were fantastic. You did so much for me.”

And you had not a clue that you were even reaching them, that they even knew you existed. 

It’s something that you just need to remember when you’re down that the students that are out there do remember you and will come back and thank you. 

I just really want to express the gratification that we have for the work that you do all year.

I’m sorry we have to wrap it all up in just one week. It’s really something that is ongoing. 

 

Jessica Wright, District 4

I know that some of our schools celebrate on different weeks, just depending on testing. 

As a teacher, I know how hard it can be to kind of slow down and enjoy those appreciation moments, especially during such a busy time of year.

Sometimes you can almost be like, “Oh I don’t want to stop for a plate of tacos. I have things to do.” But enjoy the plate of tacos. Take a moment and just take a breather. 

I also just wanted to encourage our administration as well to take as much off our teachers’ plates as you can – not just during Teacher Appreciation Week, but all the time, especially if they’re showing up for those extras.

If they’re there in the evenings, if they’re staying late – comp time. We support comp time here, so give them that flexibility to make sure they can manage everything and show them appreciation through your actions and not just your words. 

So I just wanted to say thank you to everybody.

 

Al Hernandez, District 1

Teaching is definitely a calling. This is Teacher Appreciation Week, so I want to say thank you to all of our teachers for their continued hard work and support. 

 

Proclamation Recognizing Teacher Appreciation Week 

Whereas, teachers are the backbone of America’s system of free public schools; and 

Whereas, great teachers bring powerful learning experiences to students through innovative, engaging, and personalized approaches to teaching and learning that prepare them to lead fulfilling, successful lives; and 

Whereas, teachers challenge and inspire students every day to change the world; and 

Whereas, teachers keep American democracy alive by laying the foundation for good citizenship and strong communities; and 

Whereas, teachers continue to influence us long after our school days are only memories by instilling a love of learning and a lifetime commitment to seeking new knowledge; and 

Whereas, teachers fulfill our mission of providing a world class education for all students, and help us achieve our vision that all of our students will achieve success in college, career, and life. 

Now, therefore, the District School Board of Pasco County does hereby proclaim the week of May 5 – 9, 2025, as Teacher Appreciation Week, and encourages Pasco County businesses to join us in recognizing Teacher Appreciation Week. 

Duly signed at a regular public meeting this 6th day of May 2025. 

The District School Board of Pasco County, Florida

 

ST. LEO – As college commencement season begins, some students might be worried about their future or they may be seeking advice from family and friends. 

Tammy Zacchilli, professor of psychology, and Omar Cosme, director of career services, both at Saint Leo University, offer tips for life after college.

 

All the Feels

Soon-to-be-graduates are likely feeling positive and negative emotions. 

“They might feel happy, accomplished and proud,” Zacchilli said. “They might also experience fear and anxiety if they are not sure where they are headed. Even if they have an idea of where they are headed, they might still have fears related to moving away, starting a new job or going to graduate school.”

Her advice for graduating students: “They can talk to friends and family members about how they are feeling,” Zacchilli said. “If you experience anxiety that interferes with your daily life, be sure to seek counseling. Sharing feelings can reduce those feelings of anxiety.”

 

Practical Job Hunt Tips

“Start with what’s within your control,” Cosme advised. “Polish your resume. For Saint Leo students, that’s using our Resume Starter Kit, and then schedule a document review through Handshake.”

Students (and anyone looking for a new career) “should tailor your resume toward the jobs you’re targeting – not just a list of duties, but a story of your skills and accomplishments.”

Cosme recommended using the Handshake platform offered by Saint Leo University or similar platforms used by other colleges. 

“That’s where you’ll find on-campus jobs, internships and full-time roles posted by employers actively recruiting Saint Leo students,” Cosme said. “Complete your profile. The more employers can see about your interests and experiences, the better your chances.”

Another piece of advice from Cosme is to enroll in the Leo Great Career Development Program, which is open to students and alumni. Other universities may offer similar programs. 

“It walks you through three stages: learning who you are as a professional, getting ready for the job market and practicing how to stand out,” he said. “Each step is designed to build your confidence and give you practical tools you can use immediately.”

 

Balancing Self-care with Career

Zacchilli suggests students and graduates should “always take time for yourself.

“Try to use healthy coping strategies,” she said. “Any new path will be met with excitement but also with possible challenges. Don’t be afraid to reach out to mentors and past professors if you need additional guidance. Also, stay organized so you can keep track of applications or interviews.”

 

Family Help

While parents and other family members may be leery of hovering, there are things they can do. “Families can be supportive,” Zacchilli said. “Families can share stories of their own experiences. Sometimes just listening to our students share their concerns can help them relieve stress.”

Families also can be huge allies in the job hunt process. 

“The best thing they can do is listen without pressuring,” Cosme said. “Ask open-ended questions like, ‘What kind of work makes you feel energized?’ or ‘Is there anything you’re curious about exploring?’”

Encourage your student to visit career services, he said. “The earlier the better, even if they’re unsure of their major or career path.”

Cosme added, “And if you have professional contacts, don’t underestimate the power of a short informational interview. That one conversation might help them discover a field they’d never considered. It’s not about handing them a job – it’s about giving them insight.”

 

Staying Connected

Social media is a great way to stay connected to friends made while in college. 

“Texting also allows connection between friends,” Zacchilli said. “When moving from college to a job or graduate school, social support will continue to be important. Try to find people who have similar interests as you.”

Cosme advised new graduates to “stay curious and check in, even if there’s no agenda. Comment on a classmate’s post. Congratulate a friend who just got a new job. Relationships don’t have to fade just because you graduated.”

He also encouraged them to be involved as university alumni through Career Services events, alumni mixers and online groups. 

“Many of our Leo Great completers continue to engage through mock interviews, mentoring or employer panels – because community doesn’t stop at graduation,” he said. “Sometimes, reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while can be the start of something new. Most people are just waiting for someone else to say hello first.”

 

Celebrate Success

Some students may be feeling “less than” or are experiencing a bit of “imposter syndrome” this commencement season. 

“Remind yourself that you were admitted to this university, you’ve done the work, and you’re showing up,” Cosme said. “That’s real. And when you feel like you don’t know enough, get curious instead of critical. Ask questions. Seek feedback. Growth is the goal, not perfection.”

He also suggested keeping a “confidence file.” This could be positive feedback from a professor, a thank-you email from a classmate, or a list of small wins. “When your self-talk turns negative, let those reminders speak louder,” Cosme said.

Zacchilli advised the soon-to-be-graduates to try to avoid comparing themselves too much to others. 

“You are on your own track, and we each have different experiences,” she said. “You are a college graduate now so that is a major accomplishment. Be proud of this step and look forward to the new opportunities you will have now that you have completed this step.”

 

LUTZ – Bank of Tampa has donated $2,500 to the SMARTstart Microloan Program, according to the Pasco Economic Development Council.

The program gives entrepreneurs the funds they need to start or grow their business. Its goal is to strengthen the Pasco County economy and create more job opportunities. 

“The Bank of Tampa is deeply committed to strengthening the communities where we live, work and play by supporting local businesses and organizations,” said Angie Gardner, vice president/commercial relationship manager for Bank of Tampa. “We are incredibly proud to contribute to Pasco EDC’s Microloan Fund, helping turn the dreams of small business owners into reality.”

To qualify for a microloan, businesses must be headquartered in Pasco County. Funds can be used for purchasing inventory and machinery, working capital, supplies and more.

“The SMARTstart Microloan Program has helped over 80 businesses to date, and we are excited to see more business growth in the future thanks to this program that would not be possible without generous donors like the Bank of Tampa,” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president/CEO.

Those 80-plus businesses to benefit from the program have created more than 275 direct jobs.

Pasco EDC recently held its third annual Microloan Breakfast to give financial professionals an update on the program. Two microloan recipients shared their successes with the audience. 

Antonio Rodriguez, co-owner of Elite 360 Studio, was one of the presenters. 

“The SMARTstart Microloan Program from Pasco EDC was a true game-changer for Elite 360 Studio,” Rodriguez said. “The funding and support we received allowed us to invest in the equipment and resources essential to our growth. Beyond financial assistance, the program expanded our network and connected us with invaluable local resources. Pasco EDC’s commitment showed us they genuinely care about our success. We’re proud to be part of a community that champions and empowers small businesses.”

 

Want to learn more?

Visit www.smartstartpasco.com/microloan or contact program director Dan Mitchell at to learn more about the SMARTstart Microloan Program.

WESLEY CHAPEL – AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER officially opened its doors to patients on April 29.

The 13,000-square-foot emergency department on Chapel Commerce Drive, between Zephyrhills and Wesley Chapel, features 12 patient beds, two triage rooms and offers imaging and lab services. The ER also has a pediatric-friendly room designed to take care of even the littlest of patients.

“Having an emergency room in a growing area like this is really about a partnership with our clinical teams, our physician providers, our EMS within AdventHealth as well as our EMS with Pasco County,” said Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Connerton. “What is so awesome about this building here is we all work together to serve our growing community. That’s what I am so excited about.”  

The AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER joins the organization’s 10 other freestanding emergency departments across the West Florida Division. It is the fifth AdventHealth ER in Pasco County. 

This also includes a dedicated EMS fleet of 21 ambulances and AdventHealth AirStar 1, a medical helicopter dedicated to critical patient transport across the Tampa Bay region.    

Construction of the new AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER cost $26 million. The project generated more than two dozen jobs in the Pasco County area.  

“The completion of this facility in just nine months is a testament to the exceptional collaboration and long-term relationship between our team, AdventHealth, and our trade contractor partners,” said Todd Watson, state division manager for Robins & Morton. “We are thrilled to deliver this facility in a timely manner to begin serving our Pasco County community.”

The AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER is a department of AdventHealth Zephyrhills.