Leadership Lessons with Dr. Saviak … Can’t, Don’t or Won’t?
Leaders must create and sustain an environment where everyone feels safe to trust and perform. One of the most important ways to do this is to have a “safe to fail” culture.
There’s no progress, achievement, or innovation without mistakes. Mistakes are normal, natural, expected, and predictable. We all make them. The team has to feel free to fail, fail up, and fail forward. It’s how we learn, improve, and innovate.
One of Florida’s best CEOs Joe York would share leadership lessons with my students – all of them are current and future executives, managers, supervisors, and professionals. He would always note that he makes mistakes to the positive reaction of students. When I am mentoring, I often work into the conversation that I make plenty of mistakes.
You want the team to learn, grow, and innovate. You do not want employees to spend their limited and valuable time and energy in defensive thinking and behaviors or avoiding solving problems for fear of the risk. You never want employees hiding problems out of fear. Everyone should know it is best to immediately share less than positive news.
We always want to identify the causes of mistakes to remedy not repeat. All employee actions generally fall into three categories: can’t, don’t and won’t.
Can’t is a lack of capacity to successfully complete the required task. Can’t is usually solved with training, coaching, and mentoring. It could also involve removing obstacles such as a change in policies and procedures or supplying support like technology, equipment, or resources.
Don’t occurs when the employee knew the policy but did not follow it a second time. It is key to learn their thinking and understand why they did what they did and how to best address it. They should understand the rationale for the policy or procedure. They must know there will be consequences if this behavior continues. Start positive and end positive in your conversation.
Won’t is the employee repeatedly refuses to adhere to the culture, policies, and expected performance. Intentional and chronic behavior means the employee is a poor fit for the culture and team. They should seek employment with an organization which is a good match for their thinking and behavior.
Failure to address a problem such as behavior which violates policies means it will be repeated by that employee and replicated by others. If it is a bad policy, then the policy needs to be changed.
The best leaders are open and honest about themselves. Successful leaders admit the truth – we all make mistakes. It is how we learn and grow from them. If you are doing and deciding, you are making mistakes. If you are learning from them and doing better, you are succeeding
Sources: Abrashoff, 2002; Blanchard, 2011; Drucker, 2001; Grant, 2017; Kotter, 2012; Lencioni, 2012; Maxwell, 1998; Welch, 2005.
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RNC Statement on Senate Democrats Blocking Pay for Workers While Cashing Their Own Checks
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Joe Gruters released the following statement after Senate Democrats voted against paying workers during the Democrat-led government shutdown:
“Senate Democrats just voted to block paychecks for our troops, ICE agents, Border Patrol, Capitol Police officers, and their own staff — all while cashing their own,” said Chairman Gruters. “They’re fundraising off a shutdown they caused while millions of Americans go without pay. For three weeks, Democrats have chosen politics over the American people by forcing Americans to work for them while prioritizing $200 billion in benefits for illegal immigrants. Democrats have proven they care more about illegal immigrants than the American people.”
Background:
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Senator Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., has stated that he will “evaluate” if he will accept his next paycheck, while his staff go without pay.
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Senator Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., and Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., have sent donation requests during their government shutdown.
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Representatives Dave Min, D-Calif., and Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio., have asked their constituents to chip in to their campaign accounts while federal workers are missing paychecks.
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and Flagler Technical College Working Together to Put a “Face” on Workforce Training
(Flagler County, Fla.) – Now in its fifth year, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) Homeward Bound program at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility is helping Flagler Technical College (FTC) put a “face” on workforce training in Flagler County.
The latest collaboration between Flagler Schools’ collegiate campus and the FCSO training initiative, which is offered to its inmates, comes from Homeward Bound’s oldest program, the Vinyl Applications offering at the Bunnell-based facility. Class members coordinated the printing and wrapping of a 53-foot-long trailer from the Commercial Truck Driving program at Flagler Technical College.
Among those on hand for the presentation of the newly-decorated trailer was FTC Director, Renee Swaggerty; FTC Assistant Director, Chris McDermott, FCSO Chief of Court and Detention Services Division, Dan Engert; as well as a cast of workers and trainers from the two institutions.
Other programs offered as part of the FCSO Homeward Bound Initiative include HVAC Apprenticeship, Culinary Food Management, Electrician Pre-Apprenticeship, and the most recently launched Basic Auto Body Collision and Prep For Painting this past year.
Synergy Senior Fitness Introduces BAM Plus+ Class for Active Adults
Synergy Senior Fitness has launched BAM Plus+, a new fitness class for adults 55 and older. The class meets Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. at the new FHCP Activity Center at Pictona.
The class builds on the existing BAM (Balance And Motion) program at this facility. BAM Plus+ combines strength training, cardiovascular exercise, agility drills, core development, balance work and flexibility exercises. The class features music and modifications for varying fitness levels.
“BAM Plus+ is designed for the active 55-plus adult who refuses to slow down,” said class instructor, Annie Telesh. “This class helps participants move with increased agility, resilience and self-assurance while pursuing their passions.”
The program emphasizes functional fitness to help participants maintain independence and engage in daily activities with confidence.
The class is located at Pictona, 1060 Ridgewood Ave. in Holly Hill. Registration information is available by visiting https://www.
Flagler County appoints Percy Sayles as Deputy County Administrator
October 22, 2025 – Flagler County Administrator Heidi Petito has announced the appointment of Percy Sayles as Deputy County Administrator, filling the vacancy left following the tragic death of Deputy County Administrator Jorge Salinas.
Sayles brings more than 31 years of public sector experience and is recognized for his leadership, integrity, and dedication to excellence. For the past four years, he served as Deputy Fire Chief for Flagler County Fire Rescue, providing steady leadership and a commitment to operational excellence.
“I am excited and honored to have Percy join Administration,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “While we all continue to miss Jorge, Percy was someone he held in high regard. It is fitting that he will help carry on the important work we have started together as we continue to move our organization and community forward.”
Previously, Sayles had a distinguished career with the City of Tamarac (Florida) where he rose through the ranks to become fire chief and served as interim assistant city manager. His approach to leadership reflected the city’s core values of integrity, respect, and excellence, which he has continued to exemplify in his public service here in Flagler County.
Sayles holds a master’s degree in public administration, a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and an associate’s degrees in fire science, nursing, and emergency medical service, demonstrating his dedication to leadership and service.
Sayles shared his appreciation for the opportunity to serve Flagler County in this new capacity.
“It is truly an honor to be entrusted with this role,” said Deputy County Administrator Percy Sayles. “I look forward to supporting our talented team, building on the foundation Jorge helped create, and continuing our commitment to excellence and service to the residents of Flagler County.”
Follow Flagler County Government on Facebook: www.facebook.com/FlaglerCountyGovernment.
Flagler Cares CEO Carrie Baird Named Among “Women Shaping Florida’s Future”
PALM COAST, Fla. — Carrie Baird, Chief Executive Officer of Flagler Cares, has been recognized by the News Service of Florida as one of the state’s “Women Shaping Florida’s Future.” Baird received the organization’s Above and Beyond Award during a ceremony held on October 8 in Tallahassee.
The award honors women across Florida who demonstrate exceptional leadership and innovation in their fields. Baird is the first Flagler County leader to receive the distinction.
Baird said she was humbled and proud to see the organization’s efforts acknowledged at the state level. “I was encouraged that our accomplishments were seen as significant and noteworthy,” she said. “It’s an honor to see Flagler Cares recognized for the impact we’re making right here in Flagler County.”
Former Flagler County Commissioner and Flagler Cares co-founder Barbara Revels nominated Baird for the award, crediting her with turning an early community vision into a thriving organization. “We had the idea, but she did the work to make it real,” Revels said.
DJ Lebo, CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volusia and president of the Flagler Cares Board, joined Baird at the event and praised her collaborative approach.
“Carrie knows how to bring the right people together to make real change happen,” he said.
Founded in 2015, Flagler Cares has become a cornerstone of community support in Flagler County, coordinating access to health care, mental health services, housing, and other critical resources. The nonprofit serves as a central hub for residents who need help navigating complex systems, particularly those facing barriers such as homelessness, lack of insurance, or behavioral health challenges. Since its founding, Flagler Cares has assisted more than 5,000 individuals and families through its programs and partnerships.
Palm Coast Council Member Ty Miller Appointed to TPO Executive Committee
Palm Coast Council Member Ty Miller has been appointed to serve on the Executive Committee for the Volusia-Flagler Transportation Planning Organization (TPO). In addition to this leadership role, Council Member Miller also serves as a TPO Board Member, with Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri serving as an alternate on the Board.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to represent the City of Palm Coast on the Volusia-Flagler Transportation Planning Organization,” said Council Member Miller. “I’m passionate about building a transportation network that’s not only efficient and safe, but also forward-thinking. Working together across communities is how we can create lasting improvements that move our region toward a stronger, smarter future.”
The Volusia-Flagler TPO is the official body responsible for overseeing urban transportation planning and programming within the designated Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA). The TPO serves all of Volusia County and the developed areas of eastern Flagler County, including Beverly Beach, Flagler Beach, Palm Coast, and Bunnell.
Current Volusia-Flagler TPO priority projects for Palm Coast include:
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Whiteview Parkway Corridor Safety Improvements (In Progress)
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Old Kings Road Widening, Phases 2 and 3
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Matanzas Woods Parkway Widening
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Belle Terre Parkway Corridor Improvements
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Graham Swamp Trail, Phase 2
The TPO Board is comprised of elected officials from local governments who work collaboratively to enhance the safety, efficiency, and connectivity of the region’s transportation system. Their work addresses all modes of transportation, including roadways, bridges, public transit, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, and services for the transportation disadvantaged.
The Executive Committee of the TPO Board is responsible for setting meeting agendas and has limited budget authority within the adopted Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). The committee may also authorize contracts and budgetary actions as approved in the UPWP or adopted budget.
For more information on the Volusia-Flagler TPO, visit www.r2ctpo.org.
Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review.
New Culinary Era Begins on Anastasia Island as Purple Olive Opens October 24
ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (October 22, 2025) – One of St. Augustine’s favorite local restaurants is entering a new era as Purple Olive opens the doors at 828 Anastasia Boulevard on Friday, October 24th. The spot is a local legend, serving as home to the much-loved Gypsy Cab Company. Chef Peter Kenney, who has cooked in some of St. Augustine’s most beloved kitchens, including Gypsy Cab Co., La Parisienne, and Manatee Café, has been developing his own legacy, opening Purple Olive in 2004 on St. Augustine Beach. Now, he and his partner Kristen White look forward to the next chapter.
“We’ve approached this transition with a lot of thought and care,” says Peter Kenney, Owner and Chef at Purple Olive. “This building has a lot of memories for both of us as well as the community. We’re excited to bring new life to the space but keep the comfortable, neighborhood bistro feel. The kind of place where you can relax and enjoy a really good meal. Our commitment to creating honest, simple, scratch-made food won’t change.”
Purple Olive has served up its fresh fare for the past 21 years, tucked in a shopping plaza on St. Augustine Beach. Purple Olive enjoys a loyal following, not only because of their delicious food, but also their commitment to the local community. The newly refurbished and refreshed space along Anastasia Boulevard, about a mile south of the Bridge of Lions, now features 120 seats, an outdoor patio, and a full bar. Chef Kenney and White are drawing inspiration from the building’s history for the restaurant’s new bar concept. Once home to Pape’s Drive In, Pape’s Bar at Purple Olive is a Hemingway-inspired full-service bar, focusing on expertly prepared yet straightforward classic cocktails and a dedicated bar menu featuring appetizers, sliders, and flatbreads.
The new Purple Olive will still serve the same delicious and eclectic fare it is known for, but with some new menu additions. “The new menu is a collection of my Greatest Hits,” says Kenney. “It draws from favorite dishes I’ve cooked over the past 35 years including a couple from the original Gypsy.” Chef Ned Pollack, still a friend and mentor, has given his blessing to Kenney to share some his classic dishes. Kristen White, Chef Kenney’s partner in business and in life, brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience to the table. She previously owned and operated the Downtown St. Augustine icon, Schmagel’s Bagels, and now brings her entrepreneurial drive and creative vision to Purple Olive as co-owner and Catering Sales Manager. In addition to the restaurant and bar, Purple Olive will be operating its catering operations from the new location, which provides double the kitchen space and closer proximity to the venues they serve most, including being a preferred catering partner at venues such as Treasury on the Plaza, Lightner Museum, and River House.
ABOUT PURPLE OLIVE: Since 2004, Purple Olive has been serving chef-driven bistro fare along with catering services using fresh ingredients prepared with passion and skill. Purple Olive will celebrate its grand reopening at its new location on Friday, October 24th. Located at 828 Anastasia Boulevard in St. Augustine, Purple Olive and Pape’s Bar will be open daily at 4pm with extended hours for events and busy evenings. Reservations are recommended. Learn more at purple-olive.com and follow along on Facebook @purpleolivestaug and Instagram @purple.olive
Suarez Moves to Spire Motorsports for 2026 Season
