Dr. Ken Costa, Marcus Duffy, Maralee Walsh McDaniel, and Michelle Bartlome.
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – “Rotary is about leaving a lasting mark on our communities, our families, and one another,” said President Michelle Bartlome, as she outlined an ambitious year ahead for the Rotary Club of Flagler County. “This year, we will continue to serve, to inspire, and to make a difference.”
Michelle Bartlome is sworn in as the 2025-26 President of the Rotary Club of Flagler County on July 22, 2025 at the Halifax Plantation Country Club.
That spirit of service will shine—literally—through one of the Club’s most beloved traditions: the 20th annual Fantasy Lights Festival. The celebration runs November 29 through December 30, culminating in a special event on December 20, featuring a City of Palm Coast proclamation, sponsorship appreciation night, and more. “We are going to make it big!” Bartlome declared.
A Family Tradition of Service
The Rotary legacy runs deep for Bartlome—so it was especially meaningful when her father, longtime Rotarian Ken Costa, stood beside her during the Club’s recent installation dinner, where she presented awards to 2024–25 recipients. Bartlome had stepped into the presidency mid-term while President Jeanette Loftus addressed a health issue.
Longtime Rotarians celebrate. From left, Bill Butler, Guilio Lancia, Maralee Walsh McDaniel, and Bob Snyder, President Rotary Club of Flagler Beach.
“Rotary brings generations together in service to others. My dad, Ken Costa, has been a Rotarian for 40 years and he is a big part of the reason why I joined,” Bartlome said. “This year, my dad is serving as president-elect for our Rotary Club, which means, next year, I will pass him the gavel as he leads the Club. I am honored to be able to share this experience with him and am proud of the legacy we are building together.”
Building Succession Through Service
That legacy is already taking root among Flagler County youth, thanks to the Club’s investment in leadership development in local schools.
Pastor Jearlynn Dennie (left) supports the Early Act Club at Bunnell Elementary School.
“Our Club sponsors the Early Act Club at Bunnell Elementary School and an Interact Club at Flagler-Palm Coast High School,” said Bartlome. “Students in these clubs are working hard to better our community and it’s wonderful to have the Club Presidents join us at our installation dinner this year to learn more about what they accomplished. We are proud of these young students who are living a life of service above self.”
Hannah Zublionis, Interact Club President and rising high school senior, shared how the Club’s mentorship has shaped her personally and professionally.
“I have been part of Interact since my freshman year of high school,” she said. “I went from Historian to Vice President, and now President of the Club. This year one of my main goals is to get more involved with local nonprofits, specifically Vincent’s Clubhouse, which works with kids with autism and creating that inclusive environment.”
Hannah and Laura Zublionis.
Her mother, Laura Zublionis, beamed with pride as she reflected on Hannah’s journey.
“I’m very proud of her. To see her standing up there talking to a room of business leaders and community members and sharing all of the things that she has been able to do thanks to Rotary,” she said. “It’s really amazing to me to see the transformation that she’s had from her freshman year and I think a lot of it does have to do with the support of the community and of the Rotary Club and her involvement working alongside them.”
Proving the AdventHealth family is one team, AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation Director and Rotarian John Subers, AdventHealth Palm Coast President & CEO Denyse Bales-Chubb, and AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway President & CEO Wally De Aquino attend the installation dinner for Michelle Bartlome.
Recognizing Those Who Serve
The evening also honored several members with prestigious Rotary awards, including the Paul Harris Fellow recognition—one of Rotary’s highest honors, celebrating individuals whose $1,000 contributions support global humanitarian efforts in clean water, education, peacebuilding, and more.
A moment of reflection for Paul Harris Fellows.
President Bartlome shared reflections on each award recipient:
Rookie of the Year – Sterling Young
“Sterling joined in September and jumped right in,” said Bartlome. “He volunteered for Fantasy Lights, and within months, agreed to serve on the Board as Chair over Service Projects.”
Sterling Young
Rotarian of the Year – Susan Steadman
“Susan is no stranger to Rotary,” said Bartlome. “She joined our Club in 2023 but has 32 years of Rotary service. As Club Secretary since 2024, she’s been our behind-the-scenes hero—managing attendance, Board minutes, RSVPs, and more spreadsheets than she probably realized even existed—and she does it all with a smile.”
Hall of Fame Award – Mike Kuypers
A 29-year member and a Paul Harris Fellow +6, Kuypers has been instrumental in making Fantasy Lights a magical holiday tradition. “Mike has helped to create a magical experience for thousands of families in Flagler County each holiday season,” said Bartlome.
Significant Service Award – Bob and Pat Knight
With 26 years in Rotary, the Knights joined the Flagler County Club in 2018. “They never miss a meeting unless visiting family,” said Bartlome. “They donate in honor of birthdays and anniversaries, attend international conventions, and mentor our new members. They embody commitment.”
Pat Knight and Michelle Bartlome
Service Above Self Award – Jeanette Loftus “Jeanette has served Rotary for 27 years and was District Governor in 2018,” said Bartlome. “Even while facing her own health challenges, she continued to serve as Club President for a second term this year. That’s dedication.”
Club Service Project – Marcus Duffy, Derrick Hardin, and Maralee Walsh-McDaniel These Rotarians spearheaded the Club’s newest initiative: the 988 Suicide Prevention Walk, raising awareness for the National Suicide & Crisis Hotline. “Their work behind the scenes helped bring our community together for a vital cause,” said Bartlome.
Dr. Ken Costa, Marcus Duffy, Derrick Hardin, Maralee Walsh McDaniel, and Michelle Bartlome.
As the new Rotary year begins, the message is clear: service is not just a project—it’s a legacy passed from one generation to the next under this year’s theme “UNITE FOR GOOD”.
“Together, we’re making a difference—not just today, but for the future,” said Bartlome.
Palm Coast –The City of Palm Coast, in partnership with the Flagler County Cultural Council (FC3), is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025-2026 cycle of the Palm Coast Cultural Arts Grant Program. As part of an official agreement, FC3 now manages this program on behalf of the City, representing a shared commitment to fostering arts, culture, and history across our community.
This grant program is designed to support nonprofit organizations in delivering high-quality cultural programming that enriches the lives of Palm Coast residents and enhances the city’s appeal to visitors. The grants are intended to assist with funding—not replace existing sources—and support local projects that align with the City’s goals of cultivating a vibrant arts and culture atmosphere.
All applicants must meet a 1:1 match requirement, and final award amounts will be based on both the project budget and the availability of funds. A robust scoring system has been implemented to ensure fair and impactful distribution of grant dollars.
The entire application process is now online, making it easier than ever for organizations to apply. Interested applicants can access the application, guidelines, and supporting documents by visiting www.flaglerartsandculture.org/granting-program.
Important Dates:
Mandatory Grant Workshops:
Monday, July 21 at 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, July 24 at 3:30 p.m.
Location: Tourism Development Council Office, 120 Airport Rd., Suite 3, Palm Coast, FL 32164
At least one representative from each applying organization must attend one of these sessions.
Application Deadline:
Friday, August 22, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Following a panel review process, a slate of recommended grants will be forwarded to the Palm Coast City Council for final funding decisions.
Together, the City of Palm Coast and FC3 remain dedicated to growing a thriving arts and culture scene that inspires creativity, promotes local talent, and strengthens community pride.
(Palm Coast, Fla.) – Flagler Schools is hosting its 14th Annual Back To School Jam Saturday, August 2 at Flagler-Palm Coast High School (FPC). The event is open to the public and runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the E. W. “Andy” Anderson Athletic Center Gymnasium at FPC.
Administrators from the district schools will be on-site to answer questions. District personnel will be on hand to provide information on various programs and services, including after-school programs. The Flagler Schools Transportation department will be available to address bus scheduling issues and the Food Services team will be available to answer questions about what you need to know about the free breakfast and lunch programs that are available to all students this coming school year. Additionally, the Flagler Schools Technology Team will be on hand for all of your technology questions.
Additionally, dozens of local vendors will be on hand with information about their youth-focused activities and programs. Be sure to get photos with various mascots and the always popular “Costumers with a Cause” roaming the gym. Food trucks, lots of fun and so much more.
One of the most popular aspects of the event is provided by the Flagler County Education Foundation (FCEF). The FCEF booth will be giving out backpacks filled with school supplies while supplies last. Take part in this Flagler Schools special event and help your students prepare to move #FlaglerForward in 2025-26.
The first day of school for the 2025-26 school year is August 11.
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Flagler Schools strives to be the nation’s premier learning organization. Our mission is to ensure educational success through high expectations and innovative thinking in a safe learning environment to empower students to reach their full potential as responsible, ethical, and productive citizens in a diverse and changing world. We can be reached online at http://flaglerschools.com or https://www.facebook.com/FlaglerSchools and via telephone at 386-437-7526.
WASHINGTON, July 21, 2025 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today in Florida met with agricultural leaders and producers and announced additional U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) assistance to help producers recover from Hurricanes Idalia, Debby, Helene and Milton. Secretary Rollins signed a block grant agreement with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) that provides recovery assistance for Floridian farmers.
In this agreement, FDACS is receiving $675.9M in funding to administer a program that will cover infrastructure, citrus, and timber losses in addition to direct market losses. This funding is part of the $30 billion disaster assistance relief effort authorized by the American Relief Act, 2025. USDA is working with 14 different states, including Florida, to develop and implement block grants to address the unique disaster recovery needs for each state.
“America’s farmers and ranchers across the Southeast and in Florida have been hit hard and suffered significant economic losses during the last two hurricane seasons. USDA has worked closely with the State of Florida to ensure those impacted have the relief they need,” said Secretary Rollins. “The Trump Administration has our farmers’ backs and will ensure they have the resources they need to continue to produce the safest, most reliable, and most abundant food supply in the world.”
“I want to thank President Trump, Secretary Brooke Rollins, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture for recognizing the need for critical financial relief for our farmers, ranchers, and growers. Florida’s producers have endured back-to-back devastating hurricane seasons, and this funding is a major victory that will help them rebuild, recover, and continue feeding our state and nation. Food production is not just an economic issue, it’s a matter of national security — and we appreciate the President’s consistent support for our farmers,” said Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson.
USDA, Governor Ron DeSantis’ office in Florida, and FDACS have finalized a grant agreement that will cover qualifying losses not addressed by other USDA disaster programs. Producers should look for additional program information available through the FDACS.
Additional USDA Supplemental Disaster Assistance
USDA remains committed to implementing the remaining disaster assistance provided by the American Relief Act, 2025 (The Act). On Jul 10, Secretary Rollins launched Stage 1 of the two-stage Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) to assist producers who incurred losses of revenue, quality, or production of crops due to weather related events in 2023 and 2024. To date, more than $1 billion in Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) assistance has been delivered to livestock producers impacted by drought and wildfire in 2023 and 2024. USDA has also provided $7.8 billion so far in direct payments through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) to help agricultural producers mitigate the impacts of increased input costs and falling commodity prices. Visit the 2023/2024 Supplemental Disaster Assistance public landing page to track the status of USDA disaster assistance. The page is updated regularly and accessible through fsa.usda.gov.
July 21, 2025 – Board of County Commissioners Chair Andy Dance was recently elevated to two leadership positions within separate organizations that advocate for counties throughout Florida, thus amplifying the voice of Flagler County during policy discussions that affect the unique needs and priorities of the community.
Dance was elected to the Executive Committee of the Small County Coalition of Florida (SCCF) to represent Region 3, and elected to the Board of Directors of the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) to represent District 7.
“As a commissioner, I’ve always been committed to ensuring that our county’s voice is heard in Tallahassee and beyond,” Dance said. “These new roles will allow me to influence policies and funding decisions that directly impact our community – particularly in the important areas of infrastructure, public safety, education, home rule, and coastal resiliency.”
The Small County Coalition of Florida provides counties with populations less than 200,000 a unified voice that focuses on equitable state funding, legislative advocacy, and collaboration on shared challenges. Dance will help guide the coalition’s strategic priorities and legislative agenda as a member of the Executive Committee.
Similarly, Dance will have the opportunity to help shape statewide policies and programs that support strong, responsive county governments as a board member for the Florida Association of Counties, which represents all 67 Florida counties.
“This reflects a growing recognition of Flagler County’s leadership on statewide issues, particularly in coastal management, resilient infrastructure, and preserving home rule,” said Dance. “It’s an honor to represent Flagler County and collaborate with state leaders on policies that directly impact our community.”
Leaders either move an organization forward or they set it back. There’s no treading water. This is especially true in the 21st century.
The right leadership can transport an organization three decades in less than one decade. Their vision, culture, team, strategies, and alignment prove transformational. The culture becomes permanent. You can visit that same organization decades after their retirement and excellence and integrity reign supreme.
The inverse is equally true. The wrong leadership can sentence an organization to decades of dysfunction. They literally never recover – they simply repeat the same failures. The culture of chronic malfunction self-perpetuates – it’s who they are. Upon hearing their latest scandal or fiasco, you can close your eyes and say, “Is it 1985, 1995, 2005, 2015, or 2025?”
Your leadership outlasts you. People will either prosper or fail for years after you. Leaders leave a legacy. What do you want yours to be?
PALM COAST, Fla. – Amethyst Wellness marked a major milestone on Friday, July 18, celebrating 10 years of beauty, health, and holistic wellness at its Palm Coast location. Clients and guests were welcomed with open arms and an array of festivities, including giveaways, guided tours, special anniversary discounts, and a shared sense of community.
The celebration, held at the end of the workweek, was a reflection of the care and passion that founder Dr. Amy Coopersmith has poured into the business since its inception. What began as a dream a decade ago has blossomed into a thriving wellness hub offering both medical and spa services.
“I never thought it would amount to anything—much less this awesome opportunity,” said Coopersmith, Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner and founder of Amethyst Wellness. “I’m so blessed and grateful for everyone that’s helped me along the way.”
Invisacook founder Curtis Ceballos and business coach Jay Scherr attend the anniversary celebration. (Flagler News Weekly)
Amethyst Wellness specializes in a broad spectrum of services designed to heal and rejuvenate from the inside out, including bioidentical hormone therapy, medical weight loss, and aesthetic injectables such as Botox and fillers. The center also offers complementary spa and skincare services with a dedicated esthetician on staff.
“We start with a personalized consultation for every client,” explained Coopersmith. “We talk about what’s important to them. Our goal is to support health from the inside out—when you fix what’s happening inside the body, it naturally reflects on the outside.”
Having worked in healthcare for over two decades, Coopersmith has seen both sides of medicine. Her passion lies in prevention and proactive wellness.
“Wellness is my passion,” she said. “True wellness means taking care of the inside, too.”
Amethyst Wellness founder Dr. Amy Coopersmith celebrates 10 years. (Flagler News Weekly)
That passion is evident in the wide range of services the center offers, including hormone balancing, immune-boosting therapies, laser treatments, and wellness-focused events that bring clients together for shared self-care experiences.
Her guiding philosophy, “radiance from the inside out”—is shared by the entire Amethyst Wellness team, who approach care with compassion, education, and a commitment to lasting health.
Practitioners talk with clients and guests about services. (Flagler News Weekly)
Over the past 10 years, the practice has grown steadily in both team members and clientele, reflecting a trend toward proactive, integrative healthcare.
As part of the anniversary celebration, the evening also raised $200 for SMART Animal Rescue, reinforcing Amethyst Wellness’s commitment to giving back to the local community.
From its modest beginnings to a full-spectrum wellness practice, Amethyst Wellness continues to evolve—just like the clients it serves—with a steady focus on health, happiness, and healing from the inside out.
Dr. Amy Coopersmith presents Caroline Johnson with a donation for SMART Animal Rescue at the event. (Photo Kim Fitzgerald)
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – The Palm Coast-Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce is on fire with fresh energy and vision under the leadership of new President John Phillips. Since stepping into the role earlier this spring, Phillips has been reshaping the Chamber’s presence with a dynamic mix of media, events, and professional development — all aimed at empowering the local business community like never before.
From rebranding the Business Report radio show on WNZF to The Chamber Business Report, featuring influential voices from across the region, to curating vibrant ribbon cuttings, after-hours networking socials, and high-impact workshops, Phillips is proving that the Chamber isn’t just keeping pace — it’s leading the charge.
“Every time our members walk into a Chamber event or tune into our broadcasts, I want them to feel energized, informed, and connected,” said Phillips. “We’re trying to grow our brand, while building a culture of momentum and collaboration that lifts the entire business ecosystem.”
Dr. Joe Saviak leads the closing program. (Flagler News Weekly)
One of the latest highlights? The Chamber’s Chamber 101 & Speed Networking event, held Friday, July 18 at Daytona State College’s Palm Coast Campus. This fast-paced, information-packed gathering welcomed local professionals to deepen their Chamber engagement, forge new connections, and — in a powerful finale — sharpen their leadership skills with a special session led by nationally recognized consultant Dr. Joe Saviak.
“Being an effective leader is crucial to sustained success in business,” said Dr. Saviak, who’s also an executive, professor, attorney, and author. “Your employees and customers want the right leadership from you. This class was designed to give attendees practical, proven strategies they can implement immediately to boost their organization’s performance.”
Dr. Joe Saviak leads the closing program. (Flagler News Weekly)
Dr. Saviak praised the caliber of participants at the event, noting, “I was especially impressed with the leaders who attended this event. They were engaged, insightful, and committed to growth. I very much commend John Phillips and the Chamber of Commerce for offering this kind of valuable, real-world education.”
Attendees left the event not only with new business cards in hand, but with sharpened tools for leadership and a deeper appreciation for the Chamber’s role in shaping the region’s professional landscape.
“This is exactly what we’re here to do,” said Phillips. “Equip, connect, and energize our members — so that together, we’re growing a stronger, smarter business community.”
The Chamber will host the upcoming Palm Coast Flagler Regional Chamber of Commerce Legislative Update at the Hammock Dunes Club on August 7 featuring Florida Senator Tom Leek and Florida Representative Sam Greco.
FLAGLER BEACH, Fla. – Hot weather made the drinks colder, the shade cooler, and drove attendees to the restaurant for good eats and to the big tent to place their bids on the silent auction items Saturday, July 19 as local nonprofit Flagler Strong hosted a benefit for the Flagler Beach Police Department.
Emceed by Surf 97.3 FM’s Vern Shank with guest emcee comedy queen Cristy B, live music by the Alias Band, Signal 20, and Redfoot from the HT Productions’ stage kept the energy high and crowds entertained throughout the afternoon and into the evening.
Flagler Beach Police Chief Matt Doughney and Tortugas Florida Kitchen & Bar co-owner Scott Fox. (Flagler News Weekly)
Scott Fox, co-owner of the host location Tortugas Florida Kitchen & Bar, bravely stepped up to the plate for the dunk tank to help raise funds and opened his wallet when it was Flagler Beach Police Chief Matt Doughney’s turn to get wet. Others paid to let the officers on the beach town’s small department have a turn at dunking the chief, all in good fun, of course.
Flagler Beach Police Chief Matt Doughney takes one for the team, from the team. (Flagler News Weekly)
With a goal of raising $55,000 for the Flagler Beach PD, the live auction, led by Flagler Broadcasting’s Kirk Keller drew an estimated $17,000 with the largest bid battle taking place over a private dinner for 10 cooked by Chef Miguel of the famed Romero’s Tuscany by the Sea, including wine service for $7,000.
“Live auctions are always fun… the audience/bidders can either be brutal or hilarious – Saturday’s audience was both… especially when they started bidding a $1 at a time. The passion and the love for the Flagler Beach Police Department is why the audience kept bidding,” shared Keller.
Tortugas Florida Kitchen & Bar co-owner Scott Fox and Flagler Broadcasting’s Kirk Keller. (Flagler News Weekly)
In the midst of the Home Depot Traeger smoker, Hammock Beach Resort, Hammock Dunes, and Sugar Mill golf packages, the bottle of Macallan Scotch Whisky Rare Cask Black, and Palm Coast Ford Lifetime oil changes, it was a special bid that caught everyone’s heart.
“There was a 3-year-old that bid $5.00 for swimming with the dolphins at Marineland,” said Keller.
“No one wanted to bid against her until someone yelled— I’ll buy it for her. It sold for over $300.00 and the couple that won the bid gave the opportunity to the little girl. The mom stopped me to let me know and they both gave me a huge hug.”
Not only did Premier Chiropractic donate to the silent auction, owner Dr. Erika Equizi nabbed a smoker during the live auction. (Flagler News Weekly)
Participating in events like this offer more than a chance to see and be seen for people in Flagler. It’s a chance to give back.
“When Scott asked if I would host the auction I was honored because I appreciate and love our law enforcement men and women,” added Keller, who has called Flagler Beach home for years.
Dianne Lang and Anthony Wild check out the silent auction items. (Flagler News Weekly)
A solid array of silent auction and raffle items from around the community helped beef up the total, and organizers announced more than $27,000 raised by late afternoon.
Funds raised are slated to help the FBPD purchase safety equipment that was not budgeted for this cycle according to Flagler Strong President Tracy Callahan-Hennessey.
If you missed the event, donations to support the Flagler Beach Police Department can be made at www.weareflaglerstrong.com.
July 15, 2025 – Flagler County is the recipient of three National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO) “Awards of Excellence,” in the category Audiovisual Podcast Series for the county’s new podcast called Flagler in Focus and two writing features. NACIO, which is an active affiliate of the National Association of Counties (NACo), made the presentations July 14 during its annual conference in Philadelphia that the county attended virtually.
“Congratulations on the well-deserved recognition,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “Your work elevates the voice of Flagler County, and it’s great to see it celebrated. I’m so proud of you and your team.”
Flagler County Communications and Engagement Manager Karen Callahan launched the “Flagler in Focus” podcast – which received an award of “Excellence” – a year ago with Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord to discuss hurricane preparations. To round out 2024, the first podcast was followed by:
Flagler County’s Coastal Restoration
Library Innovations and the Nexus Center
Flagler County’s Drone Program
Flagler County’s Extension Services
Flagler County Fire Rescue – Saving Lives and Driving Change
The podcasts are available at www.youtube.com/@FlaglerCounty/podcasts and are also available on iHeart Radio, Spotify, Pandora, Audible, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts.
Communications Coordinator Julie Murphy was awarded two out of the four recognition levels (3rd and 4th place) in the category Writing Features. The news release “It’s official – Flagler County Fire Rescue has a therapy dog” received an award of “Excellence.” The “Coast to Country” – Flagler County’s multimedia magazine, www.CoastToCountry.net – story “Flagler County awarded Federal Aviation Administration Beyond Visual Line of Sight Waiver” received an award of “Meritorious.”
The NACIO “Awards of Excellence” program honors the innovative, creative, and outstanding work of county government communicators and state county associations communications departments throughout the nation with its annual awards program, according to its website.
