Wearing combinations of stripes, plaids, prints and checks might have been politically correct for a recent theme, but the thrust was the expression of gratitude for developing a closer connection between a school and a community.

Palm Harbor Academy, under the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA), held a luncheon at Outback Steakhouse in Palm Coast, giving away door prizes and gifts with the theme "Crazy Outfit Day."

Sixty-two adults and nine children, who had the day off from school, participated.

Academy founded in August

Palm Harbor Academy, a K-5 charter school, was founded last August by the Rev. Dr. Gillard S. Glover, pastor of First Church of Palm Coast.

Glover also founded Palm Harbor Educational Center in 2005, providing unique learning experiences for children 3 and 4 years old.

At the luncheon, Glover spoke of the Academy’s proficiencies in science, math and performing arts, and making certain that students can compete in a global world.

Hortense Evans of Orlando is the principal. Students are measuring up to standards for the National Honor Society.

‘Innovative and creative curriculum’

"The Academy recognizes and nurtures all types of human intelligences so that students of all backgrounds can achieve their full educational potential," Glover said.

"The school offers an innovative and creative curriculum designed to accelerate student learning in a safe environment, staffed by experienced and certified teachers."

PTA President Anthony Felton thanked his wife PTA secretary Adrienne Felton and Palm Coast columnist Jeroline McCarthy for helping to plan the luncheon.

Felton also thanked parents, guardians and the community for attending the first of many social events, and for supporting the educational experience at Palm Harbor Academy.

Carnival at school coming May 22

Additional prizes were provided by school volunteers Gloria Singleton and Margaret James Young. Proprietor Denise Stock donated a $45 Outback gift certificate.

Lakeisha Byrd, a teacher at the Academy, spoke of a carnival to recruit students, which will take place at the school on May 22, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Palm Harbor Academy, at 95 Old Kings Road North, on the campus of First Church of Palm Coast, can be reached at 386-447-9692.

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New book coming from local author

Author Donna M. Gray-Banks has announced the release of her second book of a trilogy, "Ila’s Diamonds II." It is a story of "one woman’s journey to finding true fulfillment in her career, her life, and her loves."

Gray-Banks resides in Palm Coast and was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pa. She has spent most of her career in the metropolitan area of Washington. D.C.

The 166-page book retails at $15 and is available at a book signing on April 1, 6 p.m., at The Chisholm Center, 520 S. Clara Ave., DeLand (386)-740-6825). Book signings also will be held April 9, 6 p.m., at the Flagler County Chamber of Commerce, 20 Airport Road, Palm Coast (386-437-0106), and May 8, 2 to 5 p.m., Barnes and Noble, 1930 U.S. 1 South, St. Augustine (904-826-0722.)

Her book is available at www.ilasdiamonds.com, www.authorhouse.com, www.amazon.comand www.barnesandnoble.com.

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As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted and bereaved.