Almost all of us want to be on a true team at work. It’s much more productive, rewarding, and enjoyable. People may even stay for somewhat less because they really like being on the right team. They value support and camaraderie. They appreciate the shared sense of mission with everyone working hard together to achieve it.
It takes a team for consistent and exceptional achievement which is what high performers seek. A team is a major market advantage. The more cohesive but less talented team will defeat the less united but more gifted team.
So why do record levels of American employees feel like there’s not a team where they work? Talented team-oriented professionals must endure: 1) the coworker or supervisor who is figuring out a way to blame others before work on the project even begins, 2) information and resources are not shared, 3) the poison of gossip and rumors, 4) the colleague who steps over dead bodies as their favorite promotional path, 5) the constant jockeying and self-promotion seen as more important than performance and integrity, and 6) the department who thinks only of the department not the company or customers.
The costs to companies and organizations who lack a team culture are extremely high. Unable to trust, employees spend a lot of extra time on self-defense (e.g., the email that is “cc” ed to everyone as documentation). Morale, performance, productivity, innovation, and retention suffer.
All talent, time, and energy must be invested in the mission and team. Some organizations have employees spending much of their work time on self-serving thinking and behaviors. They work part time on the mission, little or none for the team, and full time for themselves on your payroll.
When employees are allowed to waste mission and team time on selfish thinking and behaviors, that’s a culture problem. Cultures encourage or thwart different types of attitudes and conduct by employees. If the correct thinking and behavior are omnipresent, then the organization has the right culture. If the wrong attitudes and conduct are allowed or encouraged, the culture must be changed.
Who’s to blame? Leadership. Leadership is responsible for the culture and the team.
Either the leadership creates and sustains a team culture, or they do not. Leaders must recruit, hire, train, supervise, evaluate, promote, recognize, and reward for true teamwork. Policies, procedures, technology, and even facilities must foster teamwork. Leaders must model team culture.
Trust is the oxygen of a team. Employees need to feel safe to trust others. In the right culture, they are able to be open, honest, and vulnerable. Members of the team can admit mistakes and ask for help in this culture. Employees treat others as they would like to be treated. They are polite, professional, civil, supportive, collegial, and can seek and give support. Being a giver not a taker in the single standard for the organization.
Sometimes it takes changing a culture so employees can trust. However, if an employee shows no sign of ever being able to trust or serve on a team, you cannot retain them. The self-promoter needs to promote themselves somewhere else. Leadership gets the behaviors they tolerate and reward. Mixed messages destroy trust and culture.
Teams attract and retain talent. Teams produce performance. Teams change history. As Michael Jordan once observed, “Talent wins games and teams win championships.” Lead like creating and protecting your team is everything because it is.
PALM COAST, Fla. – If the day had been scripted, it couldn’t have gone better. The 2025 AdventHealth Palm Coast Pink Army 5K and 1-Mile Pet Friendly Walk defied the weather forecast and smashed attendance records with more than 950 participants registered by Sunday morning.
A vibrant sea of pink filled the landscape as participants, spectators, and supporters turned out not just for a race—but for a movement. The Pink Army 5K has become a beacon of hope and resilience, honoring breast cancer survivors who share their stories and ring the ceremonial bell, marking their triumph over cancer.
2025 Survivor Champion Regan Hansen helps get the ceremony started. (Danielle Anderson/Flagler News Weekly)
The atmosphere buzzed with energy from the start. FPC JROTC members raised their sabers high in salute, while cheer squads from Matanzas and Flagler Palm Coast High Schools pumped up the crowd with relentless enthusiasm. From hula hoop warmups to a powerful rendition of the national anthem, the morning felt larger than a local run—it felt like a celebration of life.
Delivering the invocation was Charlene Greer, CEO of Jeep Beach, a nonprofit known for giving back to regional causes. She addressed the crowd with gratitude and reverence.
“What a blessing to be able to celebrate life and community,” Greer said. “Let’s celebrate the journey of the survivors who are here, and let’s remember those we’ve lost. Let the beautiful memories of their lives flood us this morning, and let their legacy live on through us.”
The Jeep Beach Team. (Danielle Anderson, Flagler News Weekly)
Their “Why” – Stories of Strength and Survival
Leading the survivor’s walk and first to ring the bell this year was Regan Hansen, who recently completed her breast cancer treatment at the Freytag Cancer Center.
“I’m just so excited to be the official starter of this race,” Hansen said, eyes scanning the impressive crowd. “I’ve been through a lot this past year. I’m at the finish line, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than here with everybody—and other survivors.”
Hansen emphasized the importance of awareness, especially as breast cancer diagnoses become more prevalent.
“I had genetic testing, and I don’t have the gene—it just happened. I think more and more women are getting breast cancer, and not necessarily because of genetics. It’s amazing to see how many people are coming out to support this cause.”
Team Trisha gathers to support Tricia Mathis. (Danielle Anderson/Flagler News Weekly)
Also walking the survivor’s path was Tricia Mathis, Nurse Manager of Nursing Services at AdventHealth Palm Coast, who has now been cancer-free for 19 months.
“It’s overwhelming,” she said. “The amount of support I’ve had through this journey has been incredible. I couldn’t have done it without this entire team at AdventHealth. I was treated by my own work family—so it was incredible.”
The first across the finish line was Bob Massaglia of Ponte Vedra—not for a medal, but in memory of his late wife.
Bob Massaglia of Ponte Vedra runs in honor of his late wife. (Danielle Anderson/Flagler News Weekly)
“I was looking for a good race for a good cause, in memory of my wife,” he said quietly. “She had breast cancer, so I like to pick one race for her every year. This is so special.”
Red Carpet for the Canines
As the clouds held back and sunshine prevailed, the 1-Mile Pet Friendly Walk and Dog Costume Contest brought furry flair to the day. Dogs strutted in costume, charming the crowd and judges alike.
Red carpet treatment. (Danielle Anderson/Flagler News Weekly)a
The contest was sponsored by Danielle DeSousa (Pet Friendly Lender), Denise Fernandez (EXP Realty), Talisha Autry (Repass Law), Mandy Lorenz (Tilton & Unger Insurance), and Ilyse Pinette (Shane Insurance)—all members of The BOLD Ladies group.
“We all partner together and we’re all affiliated within The BOLD Ladies,” said DeSousa. “We put all the baskets together for first, second, and third. Super fun.”
2025 Winners with sponsors Danielle DeSousa, Ilyse Pinette, and Denise Fernandez. (Danielle Anderson/Flagler News Weekly)
She added that the growing number of pets and their owners joining the event reflects the community’s love for their furry friends.
“I think like 60 percent of people own pets, so that’s fun—and they get to support the community while doing something they love.”
Community Partnership Drives Success
As part of the Pink Army Committee coordinating the large-scale event, Geena Catalano, Special Events Supervisor for the City of Palm Coast, was thrilled with the results.
“It’s been awesome,” said Catalano. “This is probably one of my favorite events that we do—and we host over 40, so that tells you something.”
John Subers, Tony Papandrea and Denise Bales-Chubb represent AdventHealth Palm Coast and the Foundation. (Danielle Anderson/Flagler News Weekly)
Catalano praised the collaboration with AdventHealth and the overwhelming community involvement.
“Advent is awesome to work with. This is our annual 5K event raising awareness for breast cancer and we surpassed 950 registrations this year—which is a record-breaking number, first time ever. We had awesome support from the community and beautiful weather. You can’t beat that.”
Staying Local, Saving Lives
All funds raised from the event stay in Flagler County, directly supporting eligible patients with screening and diagnostic breast health services through the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation.
From survivors to supporters, pets in costume to healthcare heroes, the 2025 Pink Army 5K wasn’t just about crossing a finish line—it was about coming together for a cause that touches nearly everyone. And for many, that unity is what makes the event unforgettable.
Nearly 1,000 runners and walkers took part on Sunday. (Danielle Anderson/Flagler News Weekly)
In this workshop we discuss some banking basics for business including why it is important to have a separate business account from personal and we introduce a basic cash flow worksheet. We discuss how to grow your business through business credit by discussing why it is important to create business credit and how it can help with planning and expansion of a business. Finally, we discuss the importance of insurance for the business, no matter the size, and why that is important.
With over a decade of experience in banking, Amanda has dedicated her career to empowering her community. Since 2013, she has been at the forefront f shaping innovative banking solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of entrepreneurs and small business owners. Recognizing the pivotal role that small businesses play in driving economic growth and fostering community development. She has worked on numerous initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between financial services and small business owners.
Palm Coast – The City of Palm Coast is beginning the process of reviewing and updating its Land Development Code (LDC) and is inviting the community to participate in this important effort. A series of public workshops will be held during the Planning and Land Development Regulation Board (PLDRB) meetings and City Council meetings, all of which are open to the public.
The first workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Palm Coast City Hall.
The purpose of the amendments includes:
Aligning with the recently updated Imagine 2050 Comprehensive Plan
Implementing goals, objectives, and policies from the Plan
Clarifying existing code requirements
Updating references and technical language
“These workshops are designed not only to present the proposed changes but also to give residents, businesses, and community partners a chance to share their feedback and suggestions,” said Planner Manager Phong Nguyen. “Public participation is a key part of ensuring the Land Development Code continues to reflect the needs and priorities of our community.”
Workshops will be organized by chapters of the Land Development Code. In some cases, more than one workshop may be held for a particular chapter. If a chapter is fully covered in a single meeting, the schedule may be adjusted accordingly to move ahead more quickly.
In addition to the identified amendments, residents are encouraged to use these workshops to comment on or recommend other changes that may be needed.
Additional workshop dates will be announced on the City of Palm Coast website and communication channels. For more information, visit the interactive project website at palmcoast.mysocialpinpoint.com.
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – As of Friday, October 3, this year’s Pink Army 5K and 1-Mile Pet Friendly Walks set for October 5 at the AdventHealth Palm Coast Main Campus on State Road 100 are still a go according to AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation Director John Subers.
Sharing his enthusiasm as the face of the AdventHealth Palm Coast’s Breast Cancer Awareness events in September and October, Subers appeared on WNZF’s Friday morning local talk show Free For All Friday with David Ayres and the Observer’s Brian McMillan to talk up this year’s event.
Registrations have broken records this year with more than 800 participants registered as of Friday morning. The event takes place in partnership with the City of Palm Coast, and the city’s staff have been working to distribute race t-shirts and bibs since Wednesday.
This year’s event features students from both high schools supporting breast cancer survivors and walkers along with the Survivor Strut serenaded by cheer squads as they head in to ring the bell, symbolizing the successful end of cancer treatment, and in this case, surviving the disease. Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen’s daughter Regan Hansen is this year’s Survivor Champion, and will be the first to ring the bell to kick off the events.
Details on registration can be found here. Registration is open through the day of the event, and those looking to pick up their packets early can with the following schedule below. All Funds raised stay in the Flagler County community and help support women and men with early detection screenings and diagnostic support.
Palm Coast, Fla. – Flagler Cares, a one-stop health and social care organization, welcomed Sirius Healthcare to the Flagler County Village in Palm Coast on September 15th as a new community partner.
Sirius Healthcare is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals impacted by HIV, Hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted diseases. Founded on principles of compassion and excellence, Sirius Healthcare focuses on improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations by empowering patients through education, support, and comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. Current and new patients can be seen in person at the Flagler County Village, 160 Cypress Point Parkway, Suite B302, Palm Coast.
Carrie Baird, CEO of Flagler Cares, shared, “When agencies come together in one location, people can get the care they need faster and with less stress. Sirius Healthcare’s presence at the Village is a win for the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Sonia Torres, CEO of Sirius Healthcare, added, “We are proud to join the Flagler County Village and bring our services directly to the people who need them most. By working together, we can provide comprehensive care, education, and support, ensuring every individual has the opportunity to live a healthier, fuller life.”
Sirius Healthcare provides a range of services, including HIV prevention, STD testing, HIV and hepatitis C treatment, as well as mental health and primary care services. To learn more about Sirius Healthcare, call (888) 808-1540 or complete an intake form.
Flagler Cares assists clients who need support, direct assistance, and referrals to resources that help keep them healthy and safe. Through the Flagler County Village and a wide network of community partners, Flagler Cares offers high-quality, coordinated services in one convenient location. Staff help clients navigate the systems of support to ensure they can access the benefits and care they need.
To learn more about Flagler Cares, call 386-319-9483, email help@flaglercares.org, or submit a Help Form
Palm Coast – The Palm Coast City Council, Fire Department, and community partners gathered on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, to dedicate and bless a new Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 25, located at 1250 Belle Terre Parkway. The addition of the Baby Box provides parents in crisis with a safe, secure, and anonymous option to surrender their newborn, ensuring that every infant has the chance for a safe and loving future.
While Florida’s Safe Haven Law already allows parents who cannot care for a newborn to hand the child off at any fire station, hospital, or police station, the parent must do so in person. The Safe Haven Baby Box is unique because it allows for complete anonymity, giving parents a discreet option in a moment of crisis.
The ceremony featured remarks from Monica Kelsey, founder of Safe Haven Baby Box; Bryant Perszyk, Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus; Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill; and Palm Coast City Council Member Charles Gambaro. Father Manny Lopez, Pastor of Santa Maria del Mar Catholic Church in Flagler Beach, delivered a blessing over the new resource, and Kelsey offered final remarks before unlocking the box to officially mark its dedication.
Despite steady rain falling throughout the afternoon, the crowd remained gathered outside Fire Station 25, showing their strong support for this life-saving resource even as they stood, at times, in the downpour.
Chief Berryhill spoke about the significance of the project, saying, “As firefighters, our mission has always been to protect lives. Some days that means rushing into burning buildings, other days it means responding to medical emergencies. Today, it means dedicating a resource that can protect the most vulnerable lives in our community—newborn children.”
Council Member Gambaro reflected on the impact these devices have had in communities nationwide, sharing the story of a baby safely surrendered in Ocala. “Having this box here means that if a moment of crisis comes, there is a safe, secure, and compassionate choice available. It stands as a promise that every child deserves a chance at life and every parent deserves dignity and compassion in their most difficult hour.”
Safe Haven Baby Boxes have been installed at 383 locations nationwide, including 10 in Florida, as part of a growing movement to prevent infant abandonment and protect vulnerable lives. Since 2017, 69 infants have been safely surrendered in Baby Boxes across the country, and the national 24/7 crisis hotline (1-866-99BABY1) has connected parents in need to resources and support.
The Palm Coast Safe Haven Baby Box was made possible through the dedication and support of local advocates, including the Knights of Columbus, Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis, and community partners who worked tirelessly to bring this resource to Palm Coast. Together, they raised nearly $41,000 to make this resource possible.
Monitored 24/7 by Palm Coast Fire Department personnel, the Baby Box is equipped with safety and security features that immediately alert first responders when activated, ensuring an infant receives care within minutes.
The installation of this device reflects the City’s commitment to providing compassionate, life-saving options for families in need and ensuring that no parent or child faces a crisis alone.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2025) – Bike Week returns to Daytona International Speedway next year with tickets on sale starting today for the 2026 multi-day motorcycle racing experience, taking place on Feb. 27 – March 8, 2026.
Fans can once again witness all the intense, high-speed action of numerous events, including Florida’s only supercross event in 2026, DAYTONA Supercross, the toughest and most thrilling AMA Supercross event of the year, as well as America’s Most Historic Motorcycle Race, the DAYTONA 200.
“It won’t be long before we welcome our two-wheeled racing fans back to The World Center of Racing for the 85th Annual Bike Week at DAYTONA and we couldn’t be more ready for all the action,” said Frank Kelleher, Daytona International Speedway President. “Whether you’re a longtime rider, first-time visitor, or motorcycle superfan, this is your chance to experience one of the most iconic and unique events that provides something for everyone at Daytona International Speedway.”
This will be the 85th Annual Bike Week At DAYTONA, with plenty of competition, activations and multiple motorcycle-related sights to see at The World Center of Racing over two weeks. The options are endless with plenty of variety available to enhance all the Bike Week at DAYTONA festivities. Veteran rider Ken Roczen captured the 450SX victory in his 11th attempt at glory at DIS earlier this year.
In the days following DAYTONA Supercross, fans can catch even more competition and entertainment, including the Ricky Carmichael Amateur Supercross and American Flat Track Racing, with plenty of activations featuring top-of-the line motorcycle manufacturers and interactive displays.
Estenson Racing’s Dallas Daniels once again reigned supreme on the short track at Daytona, sweeping the Mission AFT SuperTwins class pair of features. He won one of the two races a year ago. Kody Kopp, the winningest rider in AFT Singles history, continued to build on his win total by capturing victory in both races. He now has 23 wins in AFT Singles including five of them at Daytona.
The final days of Bike Week will conclude with the King of the Baggers and the 84th running of the DAYTONA 200, with riders tackling the intricate road course and famous high banks at Daytona International Speedway on March 5-7. Josh Herrin is the defending champ which was his third DAYTONA 200 victory in a row and fourth overall. He’s the first ever rider to win three DAYTONA 200’s in a row.
The 84th running of the DAYTONA 200 will be the opening round of the championship, serving as a points paying race. Paying championship points for the DAYTONA 200 is nothing new as for the majority of its years it was the opening points race of the AMA Championship.
The opportunity to catch motorcycle racing action at Daytona isn’t over for 2025, however. Fans can check out Fall Cycle Scene Presented by GEICO, Oct. 16-19. Live entertainment, free demo rides, vendor displays and bike shows accompany the on-track activity. Riders can also check out the area’s largest motorcycle marketplace during the week.
AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation Director john Subers, Chairmnan
Volunteers are needed to assist with the Yes, You’re Invited Fall Party – Past, Present, Party at the Carver Gym in Bunnell on 10/11/25. This event will honor children’s journey through time. It is open to everyone in the community and expects to have around 150 attendees. Your support is needed to ensure the event runs smoothly.
Set up will begin at 10:00 a.m. for anyone who can assist with setting up all the special areas for the children.
Party time is from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (volunteers should arrive no later than 1:30 p.m. Areas volunteers will help with are:
Boxing Equipment – This is a fixed item inside the gym and is ok for kids to use – volunteers will monitor to prevent misuse or injury.
Quiet Room – There is a room with quiet activities for those who get overstimulated. Volunteers will be at the table outside the door for the times that no one is using the room. There will also be an author who uses this room for book readings.
Photo Booth – Volunteers will mark passports for guests who use the photo booth.
Food Area – Volunteers will refill snacks/drinks for tables and potentially hand out food to guests. Assist with maintaining cleanliness of area.
Card Making Table – Volunteers will monitor and assist guest with creating cards for the sponsored kids for this event.
Sign Board Table – This table has a large board with the agency’s logo. Volunteers will encourage attendees to sign the board.
Tender Care Table – Volunteers will mark passports for guests. Further instructions will be provided on the day of the event.
Floaters – Volunteers will relieve other volunteers for breaks as needed.
Cleanup is from 5 – 6 p.m. Anyone can stay from the party to help with cleanup. It would be greatly appreciated.
Volunteers must be over the age of 12. Community Service hours for school and/or college is acceptable.
REGISTER HERE TO VOLUNTEER
If you have any questions please email volunteer@flaglervolunteer.org
