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When Disaster Strikes: Summer CERT Classes Start June 10

By
Danielle Anderson
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FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – As hurricane season approaches, officials are on offense, working to prepare Flagler County before a storm hits the area.

Among the organizations helping prepare residents to assist is the team at the Flagler Volunteer Services in conjunction with Flagler County Emergency Management.

Judy Bucek, Volunteer Coordinator and Project Director for Flagler Volunteer Services, leads the training coordination for residents interested in supporting the professionals during emergencies.

“Our summer CERT class begins June 10. It runs for three weeks, three days a week, from 1 pm to 4 pm and it is free of charge for all residents,” said Bucek.

Learning response techniques for more than a dozen scenarios, the CERT training has been invaluable during past hurricanes, tornadoes, and even in traffic emergencies.

“It teaches you how to be a first responder before the first responder comes,” she said.

With hurricane season starting June 1st, this is a great time to learn how to prepare yourself, your family, and your neighbors in case a disaster does come our way Bucek added.

“You could always be more ready, and remember, no matter the weather forecast says, all it takes is one storm of any magnitude to impact our county,” she said.

More Than Money, Volunteers Are Priceless

Prior to any storm coming, Flagler Volunteer Services activates volunteers who help fill sand bags, direct traffic, prepare the shelters and the call centers.

“We do reach out to our CERT volunteers first because of their training,” said Bucek.

Post-storm, local governments ask for help from the federal government.

“Documented volunteer hours serve as a match, so put a dollar amount to the volunteer hours. All the hours that are turned in and documented come off the total bill that the cities and the county are responsible for,” she noted.

“You’re saving your own taxpayers money.”

Is There a Role for YOU?

“We tell them, there IS something for everyone to do,” said Bucek.

Working with residents experiencing mobility issues, Bucek says there is a role for everyone.

“I just did a training where people don’t even have to leave their house and answer phone calls,” she said.

“We definitely have something for everyone and we teach that in CERT – there is a job for every, single person. When it comes to volunteering, we can utilize anyone who’d like to help.”

Classes: June 10 – June 26, 2025

Tuesdays, Wednesday & Thursdays 1:00pm – 4:00pm

(except June 26th, 9am – 4pm, lunch included)

Flagler County Emergency Operations Center

1769 E Moody Blvd. Building #3 Bunnell, FL 32110

Full Schedule:

Tuesday, June 10 – Disaster Preparedness

Wednesday, June 11 – CERT Organization

Thursday, June 12 – Disaster Medical Operations – Part 1

Tuesday, June 17 – Disaster Medical Operations – Part 2

Wednesday, June 18 – Disaster Psychology

Thursday, June 19 – Fire Safety & Utility Controls

Tuesday, June 24 – Light Search & Rescue Operations

Wednesday, June 25 – CERT & Terrorism

*Thursday, June 26 Morning – Course Review, Final Exam &

Simulation Brief

Afternoon – Disaster Simulation and Graduation

The Flagler County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program trains neighbors to prepare for, respond to, and assist in recovering from local emergencies. CERT is a nationally certified curriculum that allows people to train with subject matter experts. Previous experience is not necessary!

Attendance is necessary at ALL sessions to receive certification.

(If unable to attend a session, it can be made up in another class. You will then receive your certificate upon completion)

Upon completion of the classes, volunteers will receive a free T-shirt and emergency kit!

REGISTER HERE

Questions?

Call 386-597-2950 or Email CERT@flaglervolunteer.org

Leadership Lessons with Dr. Saviak … More Brains = Fewer Errors

By
Dr. Joe Saviak
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One of the best qualities a successful leader has is discernment. It is the ability to separate fact from fiction.

It is not just knowing who to listen to on important issues although that is critical. It is being a systematic thinker and carefully collecting and considering all evidence from multiple sources and correctly interpreting it with your team. Brick, brick, brick…wall of evidence.

Depending on the significance of the issue, it is listening to a diverse spectrum of internal and external subject matter experts such as those who actually do the job and others recognized for their knowledge and experience with this specific subject. It is seeking and encouraging different and competing perspectives to be shared. More brains = fewer errors.

It is being able to determine when you have only been given part of the picture or half of the story. It is knowing when someone has an agenda other than what is best for the company. It is effectively evaluating the quality of the evidence and the credibility of those presenting information to you.

It is slowing down enough to think through all key aspects of implementation and major pros and cons of the decision. Do not rush get it right as one of my favorite CEOs likes to say.

You will never have perfect information or all the time in the world, but you can avoid self-inflicted errors such as bad data and irrational reasoning.

Depersonalize the decision – what is all the data really telling me?

Now, we all make mistakes. Real leaders learn from them. Effective leaders correct them.

I have seen excellent decisions made with amazing results from the right data, metrics, analysis, and listening to a diverse and full range of stakeholders and subject matter experts on an issue. I have also witnessed ridiculously bad choices made when someone in leadership listens solely to the wrong person, only sees the facts which fit their conclusion, disregards the data or metrics, or allows ego, emotion, or personalities to drive their decision.

I have two rules which have never failed me: first, someone too dumb to recognize when someone has lied to them when it is now obvious that occurred is too stupid to ever be on my team. You would be surprised at the number of CEOs who allow one person to fill their heads with a false reality to secure a decision they want, and the CEO does not see the obvious. Secondly, if you have not done your homework before asking me to make a consequential decision, I will not be making the decision you seek right now.

Leaders solve problems. Leaders make decisions. Leaders compare the actual outcomes to the promised results of their decisions so they can always make the best choices in the future.

Your decisions impact a lot of people. It is not about being brilliant. It is about being disciplined, avoiding the traps others do not, recognizing your strengths and limitations, and seeking to have the information you truly need to make the best decision. If it later turns out the decision needs to be modified or completely changed, leaders of integrity do not hesitate to do it because we want what is best for those we serve.

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

#LeadershipLessonswithDrSaviak

Flagler County Turtle Trail Gains “Quilty 6.1” with Hetty Addition

By
Danielle Anderson
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Bettie Eubanks, Pat and Bill Verhagen.

PALM COAST, Fla. – It was a happy day indeed for the Verhagens as the cover was lifted and “Hetty” was unveiled to the world. Designed in collaboration with artist Bettie Eubanks, the Dutch inspired windmill scene on the shell of the loggerhead turtle was breathtakingly received by onlookers during the ceremony Thursday morning.

As part of the 22 feature Flagler County Turtle Trail overseen by the Flagler County Cultural Council, Hetty replaces the stolen “Quilty”, who was number six on the turtle trail route throughout Flagler County.

Bettie Eubanks, Pat and Bill Verhagen.

Sponsored by Bill and Pat Verhagen, the couple revealed that Quilty had been patterned after a special quilt Pat had crafted for Bill.

Stolen from her location on Waterfront Drive in 2022, the theft was a shock to the arts community. A reward of up to $5,000 was offered and remains available in conjunction with the Northeast Florida Crime Stoppers for a tip that leads to an arrest of the turtle napper.

The Verhagens would just be happy to have the missing Quilty returned, no questioned asked and even offered his business office, just steps from where she was stolen, as a drop off point.

Karen Flaherty, Kathy Reichard Ellavsky, Trish LeNet attend the unveiling.

Until then, Hetty, aka “Quilty 6.1” is resting comfortably in the park at the corner of Waterfront Drive and Colbert Lane, for all to enjoy.

Nationally recognized artist Bettie Eubanks said she falls in love with the turtle when she gets to the turtle’s face and makes a deep connection with the artwork.

Eubanks worked on both Quilty and Hetty, and took her time researching the history behind the blue and white Dutch pottery known as “Delft” that inspired Hetty’s look.

“I too had to fall into understanding history and it’s always been beautiful to understand the history behind what you’re doing so that it’s more meaningful,” she said.

Ron Lace, Jan Jackson, Judi Wormeck attend the unveiling of Hetty.

“I sealed it with the color of the pottery that is done in the Netherlands, before I started to paint. It took two layers to actually get that there because I wanted that to come up through that white. I was trying to be as authentic as possible and trying to express as much care as I could.”

She was more than happy to share her talents for the art in public places project that has become a tourist attraction as visitors take part in a scavenger hunt-like adventure to visit all 22 turtles.

“My inspiration is the community,” said Eubanks. “I truly want them to have something they can enjoy as far as art. It takes a long time to get people to understand that it’s for everyone.”

The AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation team attends the unveiling of Hetty alongside FC3’s Jay Scherr. From left, John Subers, Jay Scherr, Debra Vannoy and Elaine Gonsalves.

Based on the works of Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer, Hetty is a nod to Bill Verhagen’s Dutch heritage and a beloved family member of the same name.

“It’s just incredible to work with Bettie again. She just did a fantastic job in taking a totally different artistic concept and putting it to work,” said Bill Verhagen.

A coffee table book featuring all the turtles and their history will be available through the Flagler County Cultural Council in October 2025.

To see a map of the Flagler County Turtle Trail, visit www.FlaglerArtsandCulture.org.

Flagler County Cultural Council members celebrate the new installation.

AdventHealth: Flagler County Hospitals Earn National Recognition as NBCA Centers of Excellence for VTE Care and Prevention

By
Michelle Bartlome
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PALM COAST, Fla., – Two Flagler County hospitals have been nationally recognized for their commitment to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

AdventHealth Palm Coast and AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway were designated as Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Centers of Excellence™ by the National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA).

They are the first health care facilities in the AdventHealth system, and the first in Central and Northeast Florida, to receive this national recognition.

Blood clots can be life-threatening. Each year, they affect up to 900,000 people in the United States and are responsible for as many as 100,000 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This underdiagnosed, undertreated disease process remains a significant public health concern in the United States. Many of these cases can be prevented with the right care.

As National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) VTE Centers of Excellence™, both AdventHealth Flagler County hospitals join a growing network of leading institutions recognized for advancing VTE care through clinical excellence, innovation, and a commitment to education and prevention. AdventHealth is partnering with institutions embracing innovative, evidence-based, and patient-focused strategies to prevent and treat VTE.

“Our goal is simple: to catch blood clots early, treat them quickly, and prevent them when we can,” said Dr. Ark Kheyfits, interventional radiologist and radiology leader at AdventHealth Palm Coast and AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway. “That takes every department working together, and I’m proud of how we’ve made that the standard here. We don’t take shortcuts when it comes to saving lives.”

To earn this designation, the hospitals had to meet stringent national standards for how they care for patients with – or at risk for – blood clots. That includes quick diagnosis, seamless coordination between teams, and a strong focus on safety after patients go home.

“NBCA VTE Centers of Excellence™ are setting a new standard in how we approach VTE, from acute management to long-term prevention,” said Erin VanDyke, PA-C, Vice President of the NBCA COE Program. “The teams at AdventHealth Palm Coast and AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway exemplify the mission of this program through their multidisciplinary collaboration, dedication to best practices, and focus on patient outcomes.”

Established in 2003, NBCA is the nation’s leading nonprofit, patient advocacy organization dedicated to advancing the prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of life-threatening blood clots.

Through a strategic focus on education, advocacy, and research, NBCA empowers patients and families, supports healthcare professionals, and drives national efforts to improve awareness, detection, and outcomes related to VTE.

For Flagler County residents, the new partnership between NBCA and AdventHealth hospitals offers even greater confidence in accessing high-quality VTE care close to home.

Holland Park: Palm Coast Hosts History in the Park This Saturday

By
Danielle Anderson
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Executive Orders and Constitutional Power – Jesse Panuccio Headlines Tiger Bay Luncheon

By
Danielle Anderson
-

PALM COAST, Fla. – In a compelling address that blended constitutional scholarship with current events, legal expert Jesse Panuccio captivated a sold-out audience at the Flagler Tiger Bay Club. With a focus on the legal foundations and implications of executive orders (EOs), Panuccio offered a masterclass in constitutional law, beginning with an insightful overview of the Federalist Papers and the historical use of executive authority.

Panuccio, a partner at Boies Schiller Flexner LLP and former Acting Associate Attorney General of the United States, spoke plainly and powerfully, ensuring the complex topic resonated with both legal professionals and laypersons in attendance. Drawing from his experience as executive director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and general counsel to then-Governor Rick Scott, he contextualized the modern use of EOs, particularly under President Donald Trump, as tools to advance policy amid Congressional gridlock.

A group of executive women posing for a photo.
Leaders from across the community attend the May 2025 Flagler Tiger Bay Club luncheon with Jesse Panuccio. From left, Fern Hailey, Teresa Rizzo, Monica Ofileanu, Kim Fitzgerald, Maria Scarol, Diane Vidal, Dr. Trish Giaccone, and Laura Gilvary.

Recently reappointed to Florida’s Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission by Governor Ron DeSantis (December 2024), Panuccio brought both legal authority and practical insight to the discussion. He addressed three major aspects of executive orders, though time allowed for an in-depth exploration of only the first.

During the lively Q&A session, questions came from both seasoned legal professionals and local officials. The session’s standout moment came from Palm Coast Chief of Staff Jason DeLorenzo, whose question earned the event’s prestigious Fang & Claw Award for best question.

“If Congress provides the funds for a program to an agency, can the President or DOGE in this example really eliminate or remove funding for that program through a passed law?” asked DeLorenzo.

In response, Panuccio cited relevant statutes and Supreme Court decisions, including the high-profile ruling on student loan forgiveness, emphasizing the complexity and constitutional nuance involved in such decisions. His answer underscored the need for rigorous legal analysis in evaluating executive actions.

Flagler Tiger Bay Club President Jay Scherr, Palm Coast Chief of Staff Jason DeLorenzo, Dr. Trish Giaccone, Dr. Joe Saviak, speaker Jesse Panuccio, and Marc Dwyer.

Flagler Tiger Bay Club Vice President and attorney Marc Dwyer expressed his enthusiasm for the session, inviting Panuccio to return. Board Member and fellow attorney Dr. Joe Saviak praised the talk.

“His analysis of the history, authority for, use of, and constitutional limits upon executive orders by U.S. Presidents provided our members with a valuable understanding of this important tool of administrative direction to the executive branch.  His series of specific examples involving different Presidents effectively explained why executive orders are or are not likely to survive judicial scrutiny,” said Saviak.

“Superb speakers inspire excellent questions.  The questions were stellar.  They enabled Mr. Panuccio to share critical insights about why executive orders continue to influence the execution of public policy and impact the operation of our national government as well as daily life in America.”

In keeping with the club’s commitment to civic education, Panuccio also met with students from Flagler Palm Coast High School as part of the club’s Young Tiger program.

Flagler Tiger Bay Club President Jay Scherr paid homage to Flagler Tiger Bay Club Co-Founder and President Emeritus Greg Davis with wife Jacqueline Sales Davis during the luncheon.

He encouraged members and students to approach political and legal news with critical thinking and historical awareness.

“I hope the discussion today was illuminating for everybody, and just that when they read in the news about an executive order or presidential action, they understand that they’ve really got to look at the arguments on both sides and also put these things in some historical context,” said Panuccio.

“(It’s important) they understand the long history of presidential action, judicial action, congressional action. There’s a tension in the system and they’re supposed to check and balance each other.”

The Flagler Tiger Bay Club will conclude its 2025 Spring Speaker Series with Paul Peterson, Regional Vice President of First Trust Portfolios, L.P., on June 18. The event, sponsored by Innovative Financial Solutions, Inc., is open to members and guests. For more information, visit www.FlaglerTigerBayClub.com.

Speaker Jesse Panuccio meets with students from Flagler Palm Coast High School after the luncheon.

 

Registration Open for 3rd Annual Kids Business Fair

By
Danielle Anderson
-

Registration is now open for the 3rd Annual Kids Business Fair.

Aspiring youth entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for this unique opportunity to have their big idea seen by the community during the Kids Business Fair.

Observe the opportunity for our local resident children to launch their very own startup business!

Kids develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at our one-day marketplace.

This event is sponsored by Culinary Wellness, together with other local businesses, supporters, donors and volunteers. We all believe that principled entrepreneurs are heroes and role models for the next generation.

Whether an entrepreneur is famous like Elon Musk or Oprah Winfrey or they are one of the thousands of unsung business owners across this country, these are the people who make sacrifices to innovate, create jobs and serve their communities.

Winners are recognized in a press release about the event and have the opportunity to be featured on the Flagler Broadcasting 30-minute Saturday morning radio show and podcast “Lifeline” with host Danielle Anderson, editor of Flagler News Weekly.

Learn more HERE.

African American Cultural Society to Host 33rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration

By
Danielle Anderson
-

On Saturday June 14, 2025, The African American Cultural Society in Palm Coast Florida, will host its annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration. Themed: Our History: The Cost of Freedom. This family-friendly affair commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, kicks off at 12:00 PM, on the grounds of the African American Cultural Society and Museum at 4422 N US Highway 1 in Palm Coast.

This program is supported by the City of Palm Coast, Flagler Tourism (visitflagler.com), Florida Arts & Cultural and Chick-fil-A (Palm Coast) and will feature live music and entertainment from a variety of local artists, fun activities, games and prizes for the entire family. In addition to a variety of arts and crafts for sale from local artisans, a festive feast of food, including mouthwatering barbeque and various scrumptious treats from a variety of participating Black-owned businesses…

For over 30 years, The African American Cultural Society’s Juneteenth Freedom celebration has highlighted the outstanding contributions and historic legacy of the African American community…. Other upcoming events taking place at the African American Cultural Center and Museum include ; 3rd Celebration of The Original African New Year on Saturday June 21st, , Classic movies every 2nd Friday of the month, Zodiac party birthday celebration Saturday July 26th and  October 25th ,and Kwanzaa celebration on Saturday December 27th.

The mission of The African American Cultural Society Inc. is to preserve and perpetuate the cultural heritage of the African Diaspora through educational, social, cultural and intellectual activities and services deemed to be in the best interest of the entire community.

Interview and photo opportunities are Available: Contact: Imani Kinshasa (917)570-1301., or Belinda Rush 386-447-7030.

The Ultimate Getaway: Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa Unveils Exclusive 35% Midweek Savings for Summer 2025

By
Danielle Anderson
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Palm Coast, Fla. – Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, an oceanfront, grand resort designed with a nostalgic, Old Florida ambiance, just south of St. Augustine, is thrilled to announce a limited-time offer where guests can enjoy 35% off midweek stays on all room types. This exclusive promotion is designed to provide families and travelers with an unforgettable summer escape with value.

Nestled along a pristine stretch of the Atlantic Coast in Palm Coast, Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa offers a unique blend of family-friendly fun and amenities. Guests can choose from 275 guestrooms and suites in three towers, including one-bedroom suites and multi-bedroom condominiums, each featuring sophisticated coastal décor, private balconies with ocean or golf course views, and modern amenities.

Savings for Summer Offer

  • Discount: 35% off best available rate

  • Validity: Sunday through Thursday stays through December 19, 2025

  • Minimum Stay: Two nights

  • Exclusions: Not valid on vacation rentals; blackout dates and restrictions may apply

  • Booking: Offer valid for new reservations only and cannot be combined with other promotions

  • How to Book: Visit https://www.hammockbeach.com/2025-vacation-getaway/ or call 877-586-0180 and ask for 2025 Vacation Getaway

Located at 200 Ocean Crest Drive in Palm Coast, Fla., Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa is committed to delivering a first-class experience with legendary golf with its two signature courses – Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course and Tom Watson-designed Conservatory Course. Guests enjoy eight lit Har-tru tennis courts overlooking the intercoastal waterway, a yacht harbor, a full-service Spa and Salon, fitness center and Kids Krew kids’ club. Among the many activities, resort guests appreciate complimentary amenities, including a 9-hole putting course, one-hour bicycle rentals, use of the sauna, steam & inhalation rooms and nine swimming pools and a multi-level fantasy pool complex with a three-story water slide as well as a lazy river. Presenting 50,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa is dedicated to delivering a world-class resort.

To learn more about Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, please visit hammockbeach.com or call (877) 586-0180. To follow along on social media, visit Facebook at @HammockBeachResort, Instagram at @HammockBeach or YouTube at @HammockBeach with #lifeathammockbeach.

 

Matanzas High School Recognized as a Promising Practices Professional Learning Community at Work®

By
Don Foley
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Screenshot

(Palm Coast, FL) –  Flagler Schools is proud to announce that Matanzas High School has been recognized by Solution Tree as a Promising Practices Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work® for its initial success in raising student achievement through collaborative, data-driven instruction.

This national recognition honors schools that are laying the foundation for sustainable, high-impact professional learning communities. Matanzas High School has demonstrated notable gains in student achievement, particularly among students in Special Education and English Language Learner programs by embedding professional learning into the daily work of educators and maintaining a sharp focus on student learning.

“We are honored to receive this recognition,” said Matanzas High School Principal Kristin Bozeman. “This validates the incredible commitment of our faculty and staff to work together in ensuring every student learns at high levels. We are proud of the progress we’ve made, and even more excited about what lies ahead.”

Schools designated as Promising Practices PLCs at Work® are in the early stages of implementing the PLC process and must show evidence of improved outcomes. The Evidence of Effectiveness Committee noted Matanzas High School’s impressive documentation and outcomes, encouraging the school to apply for full Model School recognition in the future.

As part of this recognition, Matanzas High School will receive a certificate, commemorative flag and digital badge. The school will also be featured on AllThingsPLC.info, a national platform where educators across the country share strategies, resources and success stories related to professional learning communities.

Superintendent LaShakia Moore praised the school’s accomplishment: “This recognition reflects the strength of our district’s commitment to building collaborative cultures focused on student success. We are incredibly proud of the work happening at Matanzas High School, as well as on our other campuses.”

To learn more about Promising Practices and PLC at Work®, visit www.solutiontree.com.

 

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Flagler News Weekly Editor: Danielle Anderson Published by Sunrise Media Group, LLC ©Flagler News Weekly, All Rights Reserved.
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