FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – “Rotary is about leaving a lasting mark on our communities, our families, and one another,” said President Michelle Bartlome, as she outlined an ambitious year ahead for the Rotary Club of Flagler County. “This year, we will continue to serve, to inspire, and to make a difference.”
That spirit of service will shine—literally—through one of the Club’s most beloved traditions: the 20th annual Fantasy Lights Festival. The celebration runs November 29 through December 30, culminating in a special event on December 20, featuring a City of Palm Coast proclamation, sponsorship appreciation night, and more. “We are going to make it big!” Bartlome declared.
A Family Tradition of Service
The Rotary legacy runs deep for Bartlome—so it was especially meaningful when her father, longtime Rotarian Ken Costa, stood beside her during the Club’s recent installation dinner, where she presented awards to 2024–25 recipients. Bartlome had stepped into the presidency mid-term while President Jeanette Loftus addressed a health issue.
“Rotary brings generations together in service to others. My dad, Ken Costa, has been a Rotarian for 40 years and he is a big part of the reason why I joined,” Bartlome said. “This year, my dad is serving as president-elect for our Rotary Club, which means, next year, I will pass him the gavel as he leads the Club. I am honored to be able to share this experience with him and am proud of the legacy we are building together.”
Building Succession Through Service
That legacy is already taking root among Flagler County youth, thanks to the Club’s investment in leadership development in local schools.
“Our Club sponsors the Early Act Club at Bunnell Elementary School and an Interact Club at Flagler-Palm Coast High School,” said Bartlome. “Students in these clubs are working hard to better our community and it’s wonderful to have the Club Presidents join us at our installation dinner this year to learn more about what they accomplished. We are proud of these young students who are living a life of service above self.”
Hannah Zublionis, Interact Club President and rising high school senior, shared how the Club’s mentorship has shaped her personally and professionally.
“I have been part of Interact since my freshman year of high school,” she said. “I went from Historian to Vice President, and now President of the Club. This year one of my main goals is to get more involved with local nonprofits, specifically Vincent’s Clubhouse, which works with kids with autism and creating that inclusive environment.”
Her mother, Laura Zublionis, beamed with pride as she reflected on Hannah’s journey.
“I’m very proud of her. To see her standing up there talking to a room of business leaders and community members and sharing all of the things that she has been able to do thanks to Rotary,” she said. “It’s really amazing to me to see the transformation that she’s had from her freshman year and I think a lot of it does have to do with the support of the community and of the Rotary Club and her involvement working alongside them.”
Recognizing Those Who Serve
The evening also honored several members with prestigious Rotary awards, including the Paul Harris Fellow recognition—one of Rotary’s highest honors, celebrating individuals whose $1,000 contributions support global humanitarian efforts in clean water, education, peacebuilding, and more.
President Bartlome shared reflections on each award recipient:
-
Rookie of the Year – Sterling Young
“Sterling joined in September and jumped right in,” said Bartlome. “He volunteered for Fantasy Lights, and within months, agreed to serve on the Board as Chair over Service Projects.”
-
Rotarian of the Year – Susan Steadman
“Susan is no stranger to Rotary,” said Bartlome. “She joined our Club in 2023 but has 32 years of Rotary service. As Club Secretary since 2024, she’s been our behind-the-scenes hero—managing attendance, Board minutes, RSVPs, and more spreadsheets than she probably realized even existed—and she does it all with a smile.”
-
Hall of Fame Award – Mike Kuypers
A 29-year member and a Paul Harris Fellow +6, Kuypers has been instrumental in making Fantasy Lights a magical holiday tradition. “Mike has helped to create a magical experience for thousands of families in Flagler County each holiday season,” said Bartlome.
-
Significant Service Award – Bob and Pat Knight
With 26 years in Rotary, the Knights joined the Flagler County Club in 2018. “They never miss a meeting unless visiting family,” said Bartlome. “They donate in honor of birthdays and anniversaries, attend international conventions, and mentor our new members. They embody commitment.”
-
Service Above Self Award – Jeanette Loftus
“Jeanette has served Rotary for 27 years and was District Governor in 2018,” said Bartlome. “Even while facing her own health challenges, she continued to serve as Club President for a second term this year. That’s dedication.” -
Club Service Project – Marcus Duffy, Derrick Hardin, and Maralee Walsh-McDaniel
These Rotarians spearheaded the Club’s newest initiative: the 988 Suicide Prevention Walk, raising awareness for the National Suicide & Crisis Hotline. “Their work behind the scenes helped bring our community together for a vital cause,” said Bartlome.
