Employers will either grow you or hold you back. Growing you is in their and your best interest. If they have the right mission, leadership, culture, team, and career paths for the employees they grow, they have no worry about you leaving. They want to make you want to stay.
On the other hand, some employers see your growth as a threat not an asset. They will limit learning and opportunities for you. They actually think this ensures retention when it does not. Or they simply don’t care about high turnover.
Assuming you seek learning and opportunities to have a greater impact, you must pick an employer who makes that commitment to you. If they are a “hold back” employer and you are a “move forward” employee, it is a poor fit and won’t work.
Cultures can’t hide so research employers before going to work there. Look on their webpage before you interview for their leadership and professional development opportunities. Look for their employee success stories. The employers who invest in their team are very visible about it. For example, they will have social media posts about their employees graduating from leadership and professional development programs, receiving promotions and awards, earning new degrees and certifications, and being picked by their peers to lead industry or professional associations. They love it when their employees win.
Once employed, if you want but don’t get learning and growth opportunities and it’s not you, then it’s them so you must leave. Career time is limited. Spend it on those who will invest in you.
Settle for more. Select an employer who understands you both need to win.
Experience the power and passion in this spectacular tribute!
Get ready to relive the magic and emotion of Celine Dion – one of the world’s most iconic vocalists – in “Celebrating Celine,” a stunning new tribute production dedicated to the unparalleled artistry of Celine Dion set to grace the stage of the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center. This breathtaking show promises an unforgettable journey through Celine Dion’s legendary discography – featuring powerhouse vocals, dazzling visuals, and an immersive concert experience that carefully works to capture the essence of a live Celine performance.
If You Go
What: Celebrating Celine
Where: Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, Palm Coast
The City of Palm Coast is proud to announce a partnership with the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance to host the first-ever “Loving Life Walk-a-thon,” a community wellness initiative taking place March 28 through May 2, 2026.
The Loving Life Walk-a-thon encourages residents of all ages to stay active while supporting a healthier community. Participants are invited to walk throughout the five-week event at their own pace and on their own schedule, making it easy for individuals, families, and groups to take part.
The initiative was created to honor Nelson Sastoque, founder of the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance, who passed away on September 19, 2025. Sastoque was known throughout the community for his passion for health, family, and the outdoors. Many residents remember seeing him regularly at the Southern Recreation Center playing pickleball or spending time outside with his grandchildren. His personal motto, “Loving life,” inspired the name of the walk-a-thon and continues to guide the organization’s mission today.
The Alliance’s work is now carried forward by his daughter, Christina Moreira, who currently serves as President of the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance.
“We created the Loving Life Walk-a-thon to honor my father’s legacy and the way he encouraged everyone around him to embrace life and stay active,” said Moreira. “The kickoff will take place at the City of Palm Coast’s Egg’Stravaganza on March 28, where our team will be at a tent welcoming residents, answering questions, and inviting the community to join us. We hope everyone stops by to say hello and take the first step with us.”
While the Loving Life Walk-a-thon can be completed independently, participants will also have opportunities to take part in several community events throughout the program. The Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance will be present at these events to connect with participants, share resources, and celebrate the community’s commitment to healthier living.
Residents can join the walk-a-thon and participate at the following upcoming events:
• Egg’Stravaganza – March 28
• Keep Palm Coast Clean – April 11
• Tunnel to Towers 5K – April 18
• Mala Compra Hare Run – April 18
• Celebrate Trails Day – April 25
“Parks and Recreation is thrilled to partner with the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance on this initiative,” said James Hirst, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Palm Coast. “This walk-a-thon is a great way to encourage residents to explore our parks, trails, and community events while focusing on health and wellness. It’s a perfect example of how partnerships can bring people together and create meaningful opportunities for our community.”
Registration for the Loving Life Walk-a-thon is free, and participants can sign up by visiting:
Participants and supporters will also have the option to make donations to benefit the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance and its ongoing work in the community. The mission of the Palm Coast Flagler Health Alliance is to empower, educate, and encourage families in Flagler County to make decisions that support a healthier and cleaner lifestyle.
At the conclusion of the walk-a-thon, awards will be presented to participants in several categories, which will be announced at the City of Palm Coast Arbor Day event on May 2, 2026, at Central Park in Town Center.
Residents interested in participating are encouraged to register today and begin planning their walks as part of this community-wide effort to promote health and wellness. Additional information about organized walking events, award categories, and other opportunities to get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.
Palm Coast, Fla. (March 30, 2026) – The Flagler Tiger Bay Club is proud to announce its 2026 Spring Speaker Series, featuring a dynamic lineup of thought leaders in higher education, investigative journalism, and public policy. The spring series will take place at the Hammock Dunes Club and is expected to draw strong
Edwin Moore.
interest from across the community. Early registration is strongly encouraged, as each event is anticipated to sell out.
The series begins on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, with Edwin H. Moore, Ph.D., President-Emeritus of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida. A
nationally recognized policy expert with decades of experience across education, government, and nonprofit sectors, Dr. Moore will present “Who Shapes Higher Education? Policy, Politics, and Power in Florida’s Colleges and Universities.” His discussion will examine the evolving forces shaping higher education policy in Florida and beyond.
Daralene Jones.
On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the series continues with Daralene Jones, a four-time Emmy Award–winning journalist and investigative leader at WFTV Channel 9. Jones will present “Truth, Accountability, and the Public Trust: The Role of Investigative Journalism in a Democratic Society.” With nearly 25 years in journalism, her work has driven accountability, influenced public discourse, and amplified voices across Florida through impactful investigative reporting and documentary storytelling.
Bill Galvano
The series concludes on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, with Bill Galvano, former President of the Florida Senate. A respected attorney and public servant, Galvano will present “25 Years of Policy, Growth, and Results: What Florida Got Right and What Comes Next.” Drawing from decades of legislative leadership, he will provide insight into Florida’s policy achievements and the challenges that lie ahead.
All events will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Hammock Dunes Club, located at 30 Ave Royale in Palm Coast. Admission is $45 for members and $50 for guests.
The Flagler Tiger Bay Club remains committed to fostering informed, respectful dialogue on the issues shaping Florida and the nation by bringing influential voices directly to the community.
Palm Coast – The City of Palm Coast Parks and Recreation Department is proud to announce that Aquatic Center Recreation Supervisor Alma Rock-Yanochko has earned the designation of Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), becoming the first employee to obtain this certification while working for the City of Palm Coast.
The CPRP credential, awarded by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), is recognized nationwide as the leading certification for public parks and recreation professionals. More than 6,500 professionals across the county hold this certification, which demonstrates mastery of the full breadth of the parks and recreation field, including operations, programming, management, human resources, finance, and community engagement.
The CPRP exam is known for its rigor, requiring extensive knowledge beyond an employee’s day‑to‑day role. To qualify, candidates must meet NRPA’s education and professional experience benchmarks, and successful credential-holders must complete continuing education to maintain certification.
“This accomplishment represents a significant professional milestone,” said James Hirst, Director of Parks and Recreation.
“Ally’s achievement reflects not only her personal dedication and commitment to excellence, but also the department’s continued investment in developing highly skilled, service‑focused staff. We are immensely proud of her success and the example she sets for our entire organization.”
Rock‑Yanochko has spent her adult life in the Parks and Rec field. At age 18 she began working with the Navy’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program, which provides military service members and their families with outdoor activities, campgrounds, and recreation facilities. She has since accumulated more than 20 years of experience between the MWR and the Palm Coast Parks Recreation Department, 13 of those with the City.
She applied to pursue the CPRP certification in March 2025. After months of studying, preparation, and scheduling, Rock-Yanochko took the exam in March 2026 at Florida State College in Jacksonville, where she passed with flying colors.
“I feel that this certification provides me with the knowledge and skills that are important in our department,” said Rock-Yanochko. “I have learned so much throughout my years with City and this certification added to that knowledge in a way that I believe will support my continued professional development. I am grateful to our team who has supported and studied with me this year.”
The Parks and Recreation leadership team emphasized that Rock‑Yanochko’s certification reflects a shared departmental effort. Staff have been actively supporting one another through study groups, practice sessions, and professional development planning.
At least six additional team members are currently preparing for the CPRP exam, with several expected to test before the end of the fiscal year. The department anticipates more successful certifications in the months ahead.
“This is just the beginning,” Hirst said. “Our department is committed to fostering professional growth and ensuring our team continues to bring nationally recognized expertise to the residents we serve.”
The Flagler County Democratic Black Caucus is proud to present Community Conversations with Jerry Demings, a candidate for Governor of Florida. This is a great opportunity to hear directly from a leader with a strong vision for our state and to engage in meaningful dialogue about Florida’s future.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, April 9
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Palm Coast Community Center 305 Palm Coast Pkwy NE Palm Coast, FL 32137
This event is about community, connection, and conversation. It’s also an opportunity for us to show strong local support and bring others along who care about the direction of our state.
We encourage you to attend—and please invite friends, family, and neighbors. The more voices in the room, the stronger the impact.
PALM COAST, Fla. – If you walked into Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center expecting a quiet night of nostalgia, you clearly underestimated the power of horns, harmony, and a whole lot of Chicago spirit.
Brass Transit didn’t just perform—they took over the stage, turning the packed house into a full-blown singalong. From the first song to the final brassy notes, the crowd was on its feet, clapping, swaying, and belting out lyrics like it was 1975 all over again.
Daria and Perry T. summed it up simply—and perfectly, “Fantastic. Fantastic. We lived through this real Chicago. This was unbelievable. It was like we were there watching them all over again, 50 years later. It was so awesome.”
And that was the magic of the night. For longtime fans, it wasn’t just a concert—it was time travel.
An iconic performance by Brass Transit. (Flagler News Weekly)
Flagler County Commissioner Kim Carney, who attended with her husband, felt it the moment the music started.
“This show was great. I mean, it just brings back so many memories from the ’70s,” she said reminiscing.
“This band was it. This was my first ever concert, when I was like, I don’t know, 15, 16 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. So yeah, it was big time. Great brass, great everything. Great musicians, great vocals,” she said.
The energy and enthusiasm for the music of Brass Transit was electric. (Flagler News Weekly)
The energy was contagious and groups of patrons danced together throughout the night. Delighted, couples left their seats to dance to the iconic “Color My World”.
With spot-on vocals, tight instrumentation, and those iconic horn lines that define the sound of Chicago, Brass Transit delivered a performance that felt both fresh and familiar. Whether you came for the memories or discovered the music for the first time, one thing was certain—you left humming at least one tune.
A couple dances in the aisle to “Color My World”. (Flagler News Weekly)Thrilled fans snapped photos with Brass Transit at the meet and greet after the show. (Flagler News Weekly)
PALM COAST, Fla. – An afternoon filled with gratitude, purpose, and community spirit defined the Grand Haven Woman’s Club’s annual donation event, where local organizations gathered to celebrate the impact of collective giving across Flagler County.
“On behalf of the Grand Haven Woman’s Club, I want to thank you so much for coming this afternoon. We really do appreciate it,” said Laura McBride, chair of communications. “The turnout was just really, really unexpected and very, very pleasing.”
Members of the Grand Haven Woman’s Club (Flagler News Weekly)
The event served not only as a presentation of funds, delivering $88,687 to community organizations like Provision Packs, the Flagler County Education Foundation, and Our Father’s Table, but as a moment to reflect on the deeper meaning behind the club’s mission.
“We’re excited to take this opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate something truly meaningful—the impact we made while working together,” McBride shared. “Each of you plays a role in something much bigger than any one individual.”
The Flagler Humane Society was among the annual recipients. (Flagler News Weekly)
That theme of unity carried throughout the program, emphasizing that lasting change comes from consistent effort. “Making the world a better place—it doesn’t happen all at once. It happens consistently over time,” she said. “Through your steady, ongoing commitment to this community, that’s exactly what all of us in this room represent.”
Club president Awilda Hamilton echoed that sentiment, highlighting the importance of collaboration. “Today, we celebrate what happens when generosity meets purpose,” she said. “Your impact affects us as a community. We’re so proud to have you a part of this important work.”
Grand Haven Woman’s Club President Awilda Hamilton (right) and Lauren McBride emcee the 2026 reception on March 26, 2026. (Flagler News Weekly)
Hamilton described the club’s contributions not simply as charitable gifts, but as strategic investments. “The funds we’re presenting today are investments, not donations,” she explained. “We are not just giving financial contributions—we’re investing in people, in progress, and a healthier, brighter, stronger future.”
She emphasized the concept of synergy as the driving force behind the event’s success. “What makes our support powerful is synergy—when committed organizations come together and impact us all in greater ways than we could on our own,” Hamilton said. “Together we have made the greater Flagler County area a better place to live and raise families.”
For the nonprofit organizations in attendance, those investments are transformative.
Carmen Gray of Rise Above Violence shared how the funding will expand her organization’s reach. “Contributions help us expand our program into a more digital reach where we’re able to reach more students,” she said. “This is a digital age, so engagement has to be strong enough to keep them coming back and completing the program.”
Kids Rock the Nation founder Anthony Wild and Rise Above the Violence’s Carmen Gray were among the attendees and recipients. (Flagler News Weekly)
Her program focuses on emotional resilience, leadership, and life skills—going beyond state requirements. “The state of Florida only requires five hours of learning, but our students get a comprehensive 12 hours plus,” Gray explained. “They’re not just learning—they’re becoming more prepared in every aspect of life.”
For Gray, the financial support directly translates into greater impact. “Oh my God, yes,” she said when asked if donations make a difference. “I funded everything out of pocket at first, which limited me to helping only a handful of students at a time. What this allows me to do is broaden that platform.”
Terri Belletto, executive director of the Flagler Free Clinic, underscored the long-term importance of the club’s generosity. “These donations mean the world to us—they are what sustain our mission,” she said. “The Grand Haven Woman’s Club has been supporting us for all the years I’ve been there, which is 12 years. It’s made a huge difference.”
Flagler Free Clinic Director Terri Belletto shared her appreciation. (Flagler News Weekly)
Beyond the financial impact, Belletto highlighted the emotional significance of the gathering. “It is beautiful to know they care about the less fortunate in our community,” she said. “And to be in a room with so many other agencies that are doing the same thing—solving problems in our community—it’s also beautiful.”
As the event concluded, one message rang clear: when compassion, commitment, and community come together, the results are powerful.
“Today represents synergy in action,” Hamilton said. “Together, we’re stronger. Together, we can impact lives. When we unite purpose and people, results are extraordinary.”
Palm Coast – A leadership transition is taking place in the City of Palm Coast as Deputy City Manager Lauren Johnston prepares to move on to other professional opportunities.
Johnston has been a dedicated leader within the organization and played a critical role in guiding the City through a period of transition. Notably, she served as Acting City Manager for nearly two years prior to the hiring of City Manager Mike McGlothlin in December 2025. During that time, she provided steady leadership, helped advance key initiatives, and ensured the continued delivery of essential services to the Palm Coast community.
“Lauren stepped up when our organization needed her most, and her leadership helped carry us forward during an important time for Palm Coast,” said McGlothlin. “We are grateful for her many contributions and wish her continued success in her next chapter.”
To ensure a seamless transition, City Manager McGlothlin has moved swiftly to appoint Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill as Interim Deputy City Manager, effective Monday, March 30, 2026.
Berryhill brings more than 20 years of service to the City of Palm Coast, having joined the Palm Coast Fire Department in 2005. He has served in progressive leadership roles, including Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief, and was appointed Fire Chief in 2022. In addition to his leadership within the department, Berryhill serves as the City’s Incident Commander during emergency activations, including hurricanes and severe weather events, where he leads operational response efforts and ensures the safety of both residents and staff.
“Kyle’s leadership, experience, and ability to perform under pressure make him exceptionally well-suited for this role,” said McGlothlin. “He has a proven track record of leading through critical situations and a deep understanding of our organization. I am confident in his ability to help guide our team as we continue moving forward.”
During this interim period, Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark will serve as Interim Fire Chief, ensuring continuity of leadership within the Palm Coast Fire Department.
The City’s Human Resources team is working with McGlothlin to finalize recruitment efforts for the permanent Deputy City Manager position. Once the position is open, the City will actively promote the opportunity both internally and externally. The City is committed to attracting the most qualified candidates and selecting the best possible leader to help guide Palm Coast into the future.
Leadership transitions are a natural part of any organization, and the City of Palm Coast remains well-positioned with a strong and experienced team in place. The organization will continue to advance its priorities and uphold its mission of delivering exceptional service by making citizens its priority.
