Issue 259, December 15, 2024
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you for making this past year as your SBMC President such a memorable one. A special thank you goes to our dedicated volunteers, including my officers and the committee chairs, whose hard work and commitment made our events throughout the year a success. Wishing you all a joyful and safe holiday season, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!
Summary of Dr. Christopher Bernier’s Talk last week:
Dr. Christopher Bernier, Superintendent of Duval County Public Schools (DCPS), outlined his priorities and challenges during his talk at the Southside Business Men’s Club. Key focuses include enhancing student safety and achievement, both seen as interconnected. DCPS boasts a 92% graduation rate in traditional schools, with 91% rated A, B, or C. He highlighted successes like increased third-grade reading proficiency through initiatives such as the University of Florida Literacy Initiative.
Challenges include declining student attendance post-COVID, transportation constraints, and budgetary issues, with the district relying on reserves to cover expenses. Dr. Bernier discussed cost-saving measures like school consolidations and streamlining contracts.
He addressed misconceptions about charter schools, advocating informed parental decisions while emphasizing vocational programs to prepare students for college or high-demand jobs. Dr. Bernier stressed the importance of public education in attracting families and businesses, aiming to reshape the narrative around Duval County schools’ quality.
Warm regards,
Mike Best
2024 President
Issue 258, December 9, 2024
Thank You for a Memorable Holiday Party!
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended our annual Holiday Party. It was a joy to see so many of you there celebrating together. A special thank-you goes to Diane Ackerman, whose dedication and countless hours of planning made this event truly unforgettable.
If you couldn’t make it, we missed you! The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many of you sharing your kind words about the evening.
Additional thanks to:
- Adam Canni for the stunning table centerpieces and balloons,
- Wayne Baker for the delicious dessert cakes,
- Anne Urban for organizing the casino tables and festive decorations,
- Gloria Venson for helping with money collection
- Michael Best of Tech Support Jacksonville and Matt Carlucci of State Farm for sponsoring the open bar.
I’m also incredibly grateful to the many businesses that generously donated prizes—your support is what makes our events so special.
Looking Ahead: Christmas Kids Shopping Spree
Our next event is the much-anticipated annual Christmas Kids Shopping Spree, and it’s shaping up to be another record-breaking year! We expect to host over 50 disadvantaged kids, each of whom will receive $150 to spend at Target.
We still need more volunteers to help escort the children during their shopping spree through Target. Speaking from personal experience, this event is truly heartwarming, and you will be blessed by the joy and gratitude of these kids.
Please reach out if you’d like to join us in making this year’s Shopping Spree the best one yet!
Thank you for your continued support and generosity.
Warm regards,
Mike Best
2024 President