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SMA Healthcare Announces Addition of New Board Member

DAYTONA BEACH – SMA Healthcare is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Kirstin LaBell to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. The term for Dr. LaBell will be two years.

“Dr. LaBell is an established physician that brings a wealth of knowledge to our Board, and we are excited to have her join us,” said Dr. Salman Ahmed, chairman of the board of directors. “We look forward to the good work that we will accomplish together.”

Dr. LaBell currently serves as an Attending Physician for Florida Health Care Plans (FHCP), where she has been since 2020. She previously worked at AdventHealth and completed her residency at Halifax Health in Daytona Beach. In addition to serving on the SMA Healthcare Board, Dr. LaBell serves as the chairman of the FHCP Credentialing Board.

Flagler Middle Schools Underwater Robotics Team Makes Waves, Ranks Globally

(Flagler County, Fla.) – Buddy Taylor Middle School’s (BTMS) SeaPerch team, Team Swift Sharks, proves they can make waves on the world stage.

Alex Mangal and James Webb, with Luke Chrzanowski serving as an alternate, represented BTMS and Flagler Schools at the 2025 International SeaPerch Challenge, held at the University of Maryland on May 31 and June 1. Out of 181 teams from 31 states and four countries competing on three different levels, the Eagles placed an impressive 22nd overall in the middle school class, competing against the best underwater robotics students in the world.

Their standout performance included a 13th place finish on their Technical Design Report and a 23rd place ranking on the Mission Course, which tested the maneuverability and capability of their Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).

“This is an incredible accomplishment,” said BTMS SeaPerch Advisor Tracy Jones. “These students worked tirelessly on every aspect of their design, and it’s amazing to see their effort recognized at such a high level. They absolutely earned their spot among the top SeaPerch teams in the world.”

The competition welcomed more than 800 students, highlighting the growing interest and excellence in underwater robotics education. SeaPerch is an international program that challenges students to design, build and maneuver their own underwater ROVs using only the tools and materials in their kit, sparking innovation and strengthening skills in engineering, problem-solving and teamwork.

The BTMS team also connected their learning to real-world applications through a community outreach project at this year’s Water Safety Day, educating the public on bathing suit visibility in different aquatic environments.

With two consecutive years of teams advancing to the international level, BTMS is building a proud tradition of excellence in STEM education and student innovation.

United Flagler 4th Returns for a Star-Spangled Celebration

Palm Coast – Get ready to show your red, white, and blue spirit at the United Flagler 4th Community Celebration, happening Friday, July 4, 2025! The City of Palm Coast, along with Flagler County Government and the cities of Flagler Beach and Bunnell, invites you and your family to join us for a full day of patriotic fun.

We’ll kick off the day with the always-popular Stars and Stripes Parade, proudly hosted by the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach. The parade starts at 9:00 a.m. and will follow its familiar route along A1A from North 6th Street to South 6th Street in Flagler Beach. After the parade, you can soak up the sun and enjoy live music and entertainment at Veterans Park while spending time with your neighbors and visitors from across the county.

Later in the day, head over to the Flagler Executive Airport for the show-stopping Fireworks Over the Runways celebration. Gates open at 5:00 p.m., and the fireworks will begin promptly at 9:00 p.m. Due to anticipated traffic, we encourage you to arrive no later than 8:00 p.m. Parking, including handicap-accessible spaces, will be available on the south side of the airport, accessible from Fin Way off South Belle Terre Boulevard. Please note that there will be no access through the front of the airport and no parking at Flagler Palm Coast High School.

The airport celebration will feature a wide variety of food vendors, a beer garden, kids’ activities, and a live DJ keeping the energy going throughout the evening. At 6:30 p.m., local dignitaries and elected officials will take the stage to recite the Declaration of Independence, followed by a powerful performance of the National Anthem by the talented Melanie DiMartino. Lawn chairs are welcome, and you’ll find plenty of space to relax and enjoy the show. Portable restrooms and handwashing stations will be available on-site for your convenience.

This entire event is free — there’s no cost for parking, entry, or participation. Just bring your patriotic pride and your love for community. To keep the event safe and family-friendly, please remember that glass bottles are not allowed. The airport will remain operational throughout the day, with a temporary closure during the fireworks show. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Palm Coast Public Works Department, and Flagler County Assist volunteers will be on-site to manage traffic flow, crosswalks, and parking.

We encourage everyone to carpool if possible to help reduce traffic and ensure everyone can join in the fun. For full event details and updates, visit UnitedFlagler4th.com or check the City of Palm Coast’s digital channels. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on FacebookInstagramTwitterYouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review

Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker to be Installed as 2nd Vice President of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association in July

June 4, 2025 – Flagler County Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker will be installed as 2nd Vice President of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association (FFCA) at its Executive Development Conference in July. He was notified on Monday about the election results for the 2025-26 Board of Directors.

“I could not do this without your support and strong team working behind me,” Tucker said. “We have a phenomenal team in Flagler County and it’s an honor to represent.”

The mission of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association is to advance the profession of fire and emergency services through strategic and proactive leadership, education, development, and advocacy. It was established in 1958 and has served the chief fire executive of career, combination and volunteer departments. The FFCA currently represents more than 2,200 members.

The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association also has a charitable foundation that provides scholarships for aspiring firefighters and EMTs, educational grants for professional development and is always seeking new and current ways to best support the industry and those who serve it, according to its website.

“I have no doubt you will bring valuable insight and a strong voice to the board, and your service will positively impact not only our local community but the entire state,” said County Administrator. “Wishing you continued success in this new endeavor. We’re proud to have your leadership representing us at the state level.”

Follow Flagler County Government on Facebook: www.facebook.com/FlaglerCountyGovernment.

Palm Coast Renames Community Wing to Honor Late Former Mayor Jon Netts

The City of Palm Coast celebrated the life and public service of former Mayor Jon Netts before the City Council Business Meeting on Tuesday evening, when members of City Council took part in a presentation to rename City Hall’s Community Wing after the late Mayor, who died in 2021.

Netts, who served a collective total of 15 years as both Mayor and a City Council member, moved to Palm Coast from New Jersey in 1999, the year of the city’s inception. Upon relocating, he made a lasting impact on the community both on the dais, and in the community, where he was part of a number of several local organizations that included the Elks Lodge, Habitat for Humanity, the Palm Coast Historical Society. He also served on the Florida Inland Navigation District, and the city’s Code Enforcement Board. To date, Netts is the longest tenured public servant in the City of Palm Coast’s 25-year history.

Earlier this year, the Beautification and Environmental Advisory Committee and the Palm Coast City Council unanimously approved the renaming after reviewing a formal proposal submitted through the city’s landmark naming process. The newly named ‘Jon Netts Community Wing’ will forever honor his legacy as a member of the Palm Coast community. A new plaque was unveiled at Tuesday’s ceremony, which will adorn the hallway inside the Community Wing. Notably, Netts was a key supporter of the construction of City Hall, and was the first Mayor to serve in its Council Chambers upon its opening in 2015.

Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on FacebookInstagramTwitterYouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review

Austinteriors Earns “Best of Houzz®” Award for Service

Austinteriors of Palm Coast has won a “Best of Houzz®” award for service on Houzz®, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. This recognition is awarded to top-rated and most admired home remodeling and design professionals on Houzz®.

For 35 years, Austinteriors has been dedicated to making design a pleasure for its clients, transforming homes across Flagler and Volusia Counties and beyond. They company was chosen by the millions of homeowners that comprise the Houzz® community from among more than 3 million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

“Best of Houzz® 2025” badges appear on winners’ profiles as a sign of their commitment to excellence. These badges help the more than 70 million homeowners and home design enthusiasts on Houzz® to identify popular and top-rated home professionals for their projects.

“We’re honored to receive another Houzz® Best of Award,” said Kim Johnsen. “A huge thank you to our incredible clients for trusting us to make decorating the joy it should be,” Johnsen added.

With a keen eye for detail and a passion for timeless design, Kim and her team provide a full spectrum of residential and commercial interior decorating services, from simple refreshes to complete renovations. “At Austinteriors, we bring your vision to life with state-of-the-art 3D renderings, allowing you to visualize every detail before the transformation begins. Our commercial designs go beyond aesthetics—we craft spaces that boost productivity, encourage collaboration, and leave a lasting impression,” said Johnsen.

Several homes renovated by Austinteriors have gone on the market fully furnished—by buyer request. While these homes weren’t originally intended to be sold with furnishings, buyers were so impressed by the designs that they chose to purchase them exactly as styled by Austinteriors. Austinteriors works with several builders and real estate companies to elevate property appeal, enhance model homes and staging, and provide comprehensive interior design solutions that resonate with discerning homebuyers.

Since 1990, Austinteriors has a reputation for excellence and bringing creativity, expertise, and a personal touch to every project. From selecting the perfect color palette to optimizing layouts for beauty and functionality, they collaborate closely with clients to bring their dream spaces to life.

Austinteriors is located at 2298 Colbert Lane, Palm Coast. They can be reached at 386-503-9528 or on Houzz® at https://www.houzz.com/pro/kitara52, or austinteriorsdesign.com.

Palm Coast City Council Business Meeting on June 3 at 6 p.m.

Topics include the renaming of the Palm Coast City Hall Community Wing to the Jon Netts Community Wing, Flagler Cares 10-Year Celebration, ordinance amending Chapter 42 of the City’s Code of Ordinances prohibiting smoking on City parks and trails, and more.
 
Palm Coast—The Palm Coast City Council meets regularly to discuss and vote on official City business. These meetings are open to the public, and Palm Coast residents are strongly encouraged to attend. An increase in public engagement helps to build a stronger sense of community, increase valuable discussions, and decrease division.
The agenda for the City Council Business Meeting on Tuesday, June 3, at 6 p.m. will be as follows:
 
Proclamations and Presentations
The following proclamations will be presented:
  1. Jon Netts Community Wing Unveiling
  2. Proclamation – Flagler Cares 10-Year Celebration
Minutes
The following minutes will be approved:
  1. May 20, 2025, Business Meeting
  2. May 27, 2025, Workshop Meeting
Ordinances Second Read
The following ordinances will be presented:
  1. The Parks and Recreation Department will present an ordinance amending Chapter 42 of the City’s Code of Ordinances to prohibit smoking, excluding unfiltered cigars, in all City parks, trails, and facilities. This ordinance aligns with the Florida Clean Air Act and aims to promote a healthier, more welcoming environment for all park users.
  2. The Community Development Department will present an ordinance requesting to rezone .46 acres located at 49 and 51 Pine Crest Lane from the SFR-3 zoning district to the SFR-2 zoning district. This change will allow Flagler Habitat for Humanity, Inc. to develop one single-family home on each lot, bringing the properties into conformance with the Land Development Code.
 
Ordinances First Read
The following ordinances will be presented:
  1. The Community Development Department will present an ordinance amending Chapter 29, Article II of the City’s Code of Ordinances to update transportation impact fee rates. The change is based on a comprehensive technical report and an extraordinary circumstances study prepares by LTG, Inc. and NUE Urban Concepts, LLC. The update ensures compliance with Florida Statues by using the most recent localized data. City council will consider whether to adopt the fully calculated rates or an alternative phased approach.
  2. The Stormwater & Engineering Department will present an ordinance amending Chapter 29, Article IV of the City’s Code of Ordinances to update fire and rescue impact fee rates. The adjustment is based on a comprehensive study and an extraordinary circumstances analysis conducted by Raftelis. The updated fees reflect increased capital needs due to projected growth and meet statutory requirements.
  3. The Stormwater & Engineering Department will present an ordinance amending Chapter 29, Article III of the City’s Code of Ordinances to update park system impact fee rates based on a comprehensive study. The updated fee of $3,164 per residential unit reflects a 73% increase, following City Council’s direction to revise the project list
Resolutions
The following resolutions will be presented:
  1. The Information Technology Department will present a resolution approving an option and ground release agreement with Diamond Towers V, LLC for a telecommunications tower at 350 Palm Coast Pkwy NE. The 150-foot tower will support at least four carriers and improve citywide cellular coverage as part of the Wireless Master Plan.
  2. The Information Technology Department will present a resolution approving an option and ground release agreement with Wireless Edge Towers III, LLC for a telecommunications tower at 50 Citation Blvd. The 150-foot tower, identified as Site S1 in the Wireless Master Plan, will support at least four carriers and house City equipment for water meter radio reads.
Consent
The following consent items will be presented:
  1. The Stormwater & Engineering Department will present a resolution approving piggyback contracts with New Smyrna Beach Utilities and Sparks Concrete, LLC for citywide concrete and asphalt services on an as-needed basis. This approach allows the City to secure competitive pricing without the need for a separate bidding process.
  2. The Stormwater & Engineering Department will present a resolution approving master services agreements with five firms for citywide geotechnical and laboratory services. These agreements will support safe and reliable infrastructure growth by providing soil testing, material inspections, and related services on an as-needed basis.
  3. The Information Technology Department will present a resolution approving a contract with Axon for the implementation of the FUSUS video surveillance platform. The $304,439.12 five-year agreement will enable secure, real-time sharing of City-owned camera feeds with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, enhancing public safety while maintaining City control over its infrastructure and cybersecurity.
  4. The City Administration will present a resolution approving the Strategic Action Plan Priorities. The resolution reaffirms the City Council’s continued support of Palm Coast’s Vision, Mission, Values, and Goals, as outlined in the annually reviewed Strategic Action Plan.
 
Public Comments will be opened at the beginning and end of the business meeting in accordance with Section 286.0114 Florida Statutes and pursuant to the City Council’s Meeting Policies and Procedures. Each speaker will approach the podium, provide his/her name, and may speak for up to 3 minutes.

Proclamations and award presentations during evening business meetings will now begin at 5:30 p.m., 30 minutes before the meeting start time. Additionally, public comments on non-agenda items will be limited to 30 minutes at the beginning and end of each meeting. This schedule is subject to change due to holidays or other unforeseen circumstances. Residents are encouraged to visit the Palm Coast City Council meeting webpage for the latest schedule and agenda updates.
Business meetings and workshops are open to the public and are streamed live on the City’s YouTube channel. Meeting agendas for all public meetings are posted in advance of each meeting on the City’s website. All agendas can be viewed here.
If you wish to obtain more information regarding the City Council’s agenda, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 386-986-3713. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing assistance to participate in any of these proceedings should contact the City Clerk at 386-986-3713, at least 48 hours before the meeting.
Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on FacebookInstagramTwitterYouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review.

Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center Awards Five Arts Scholarships

PALM COAST, Fla. – As Florida arts communities wait with bated breath to see how this year’s legislative session shakes out for funding the arts, there were five Flagler County, Floridians who didn’t have to wait to receive their good news.

Each earning $1,000 scholarships from the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center’s Flagler Auditorium Governing Board, six students from Flagler Palm Coast High School and Matanzas High School were excited to learn they were on the receiving end as they prepare to take the next step in their higher education journey.

Kendall Blais, a chorus student at Matanzas High School shared what receiving the scholarship means to her.

“The arts are important to me because they give me a chance to express myself where I feel I am unable to do otherwise. Choir and theater have given me a second family and I have been able to realize my full potential not only as a performer but as a person. They have made me more confident in myself and my abilities. The love from my community in theater and choir is what got me through high school. This scholarship will help me pursue my passion in music and help me to become a music teacher like the man who inspired me to keep going with music,” Blais said.

Flagler Palm Coast High School student Becca Lodato, who played “The Scarecrow” in the recent production of The Wizard of Oz, is staying close to home while following her dream.

“The arts are important to me because it’s the way I express myself. Ever since I was little, I’ve been bad at talking about my emotions, so I let it out through my acting,” Lodato said.

“This scholarship will help me move forward by helping me pursue my dreams at Flagler College where I will be double majoring in Theatre Arts and Marketing. I’m so grateful for this opportunity and it really means a lot to me.”

A whiz in stage craft, Jordan Rogers said being part of the performing arts community has opened up career opportunities.

“The performing arts are important to me because they showed me what I wanted to do as a career in life. Previous to being a part of the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center, I had no idea what I would be doing for a career, but everyone there, and the performing arts guided me in the right direction, showing me what I wanted to do,” said Rogers.

“Having the privilege to receive this scholarship will allow me to further my education at Daytona State College, majoring in Music Production.”

Other performing arts students receiving scholarships included Ayoalaya Akimbo, Kassandra Baker, and Kerry O’Connell.

“The arts are so important to me because I believe they represent what life is all about, and they connect people of all backgrounds. The scholarship from the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center will help me on my dance journey, serving as a reminder to never stop dancing,” shared O’Connell.

Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center Director Amelia Fulmer feels a sense of pride in watching the students go from the classroom and stage to the next step, pursuing their passion.

“This year we did a little change, getting our names decided early, and we went on ahead and brought all of our scholarship winners to the stage so that the ticket buyers and our patrons that are so generous and contribute to our concessions and contribute to our scholarship fund could actually see where their money goes,” said Fulmer.

Students were recognized at professional shows like the Dallas String Quartet, the Olivia Newton John tribute, and Uptown Motown during the 2024-25 season.

To learn more about the Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center and the scholarship fund, visit https://flaglerauditorium.org/scholarships.

Phemotron Systems Hosts Senator Tom Wright, Boeing, and Local Leaders to Discuss the Future of Aerospace, Innovation, and Talent in Volusia County at Daytona Beach Headquarters

Daytona Beach, Fla. — On May 28, Phemotron Systems welcomed a distinguished group of aerospace leaders, economic development officials, and policymakers to a private executive breakfast and technology showcase at its Daytona Beach headquarters. The gathering focused on the company’s flagship mission, AI-MOTHERBOX-1, and underscored Volusia County’s rising role in shaping the future of autonomous satellite and space innovation.

The event was hosted by Leslie Giscombe, President and Chief Business Officer, and Valerie Uy, Director of Marketing & Strategic Communications at Phemotron Systems. Guests were welcomed with a guided office tour, a drone showcase, and technical briefings on the company’s advanced CubeSat architecture and AI-integrated systems. Leslie also addressed the broader economic impact of Phemotron’s innovations, sharing projections for job creation, regional investment, and the company’s role in positioning Volusia County as a hub for space technology and talent development.

Leaders listen as Dr. Femi Ishola, Ph.D, R.Engr , Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Phemotron Systems, led a dynamic conversation on the future of satellite engineering and autonomous systems.

Florida Senator Tom Wright, Chairman of the State Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and Space, joined the executive briefing to reinforce the state’s strong commitment to advancing high-tech entrepreneurship and aerospace innovation. A longtime advocate for Florida’s space economy, Senator Wright continues to champion forward-thinking, innovation-driven initiatives across the region.

Also in attendance were:

  • Rollan Roberts II, former U.S. presidential candidate, entrepreneur, global peace ambassador, and Chairman of the Executive Advisory Board, Phemotron Systems

  • Charlene Gagner, Office of State Senator Tom Wright, District 8

  • Mike Ferro, State and Local Government Operations, The Boeing Company

  • Phil Zeman, Senior Vice President and Florida VP, SouthState Bank

  • Ugochi Nwoga, CFO, Tlay Healthcare Services & Gallery Owner

  • Tywan Arrington, Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation

  • Jim Cameron, Principal, Jim Cameron Consulting, and longtime government relations advisor in Volusia County

Front Row (L–R): Senator Tom Wright (Chairman, State Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and
Space); Ms. Charlene Gagner (Office of State Senator Tom Wright, District 8); Mike Ferro (State and
Local Government Operations, The Boeing Company); Mr. Phil Zeman (Senior Vice President and Florida VP, SouthState Bank); Mr. Tywan Arrington (Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation)
Second Row: Dr. Femi Ishola (Founder, Chairman & CEO, Phemotron Systems)

Dr. Femi Ishola, Ph.D, R.Engr , Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Phemotron Systems, led a dynamic conversation on the future of satellite engineering and autonomous systems, offering a preview of the company’s proprietary drone platform and its flagship CubeSat—AI-MOTHERBOX-1—designed to deliver real-time environmental intelligence, disaster response support, and airspace situational awareness.

“Startups like Phemotron are not only advancing breakthrough technology—they are creating realworld opportunities to keep exceptional talent right here in Volusia County,” said Dr. Rollan Roberts II. “This kind of innovation ecosystem is exactly what Florida needs to remain competitive on the global stage.”

The company also spotlighted its internship program, featuring four Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University aerospace engineering students majoring in Astronautics:

  • ShiKai Hee, U.S. Navy

  • Matthew Logan

  • Kylie Nager

  • Andrew Schultz, lead intern

Each student emphasized how Phemotron’s hands-on learning environment distinguished it from other opportunities at larger firms, offering meaningful engineering experience and mentorship.

“We’re not just observing—we’re building, testing, and solving real problems. That’s what makes this opportunity so unique,” shared Andrew Schultz.

As the 2025 SATSHOW Startup Space Grand Prize Winner, Phemotron continues to innovate at the intersection of AI, aerospace, and real-world applications—positioning Volusia County as a rising hub for space technology development.

Drone Showcase
L–R: Mr. Tywan Arrington (Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation); Mr. Phil Zeman
(Senior Vice President and Florida VP, SouthState Bank); Ms. Charlene Gagner (Office of State
Senator Tom Wright, District 8); Dr. Femi Ishola (Founder, Chairman & CEO, Phemotron Systems); Senator Tom Wright (Chairman, State Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and Space)

Leadership Lessons with Dr. Saviak … How To Hire The Right Leader

It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make.  I’ve aided in a number of successful leadership hires.  Organizations can succeed or fail on this.  Here’s how to hire the right leader:

Identify the top needs of your customers and employees

Identify the specific major challenges and opportunities of your organization

Describe in detail the type of leader best able to meet those needs, challenges, and opportunities – recruit and advertise for this type of leader – be open to any candidate who can successfully do these things

Recruit and advertise through the communications channels that reach those types of leaders

Sell the opportunity, organization, and community/customers you serve to attract applicants

If you fail to get the right talent pool, restart the search – don’t settle

Hire character and culture

Test for skills during the interview (real world problem-solving scenario)

Pay attention to how much they have researched your organization and community

Let everyone meet and interact with the final candidates (employees, customers) – listen to their feedback

Make internal candidates compete – if the internal candidate prevails, they will be validated by the competition – if they do not, it means you ended up with a superior candidate – if the organization is already very successful, then an internal candidate could prevail – if it is failing, it’s impossible to see an internal candidate as the right choice

Resist the temptation to rush or short circuit the search – hire who you truly need as opposed to hiring the familiar or your friend – it needs to be a real and professional search not a show or you’ll hurt the person you hire.

Sources:  Abrashoff, 2002; Blanchard, 2011; Collins, 2001; Drucker, 2001; Grant, 2017; Kotter, 2012; Lencioni, 2012; Maxwell, 1998; Welch, 2005

#LeadershipLessonsWithDrSaviak