FROM THE COUNTY MANAGER’S DESK

County employees give from the heart

In the spirit of the holidays, Volusia County employees are opening their hearts and wallets to help local residents who are struggling to put food on their

tables, warm clothes on their backs, and gifts under the tree.

The Feed the Need food drive netted thousands of pounds of food, which was distributed to local food pantries, soup kitchens, senior centers, churches and other nonprofits that are working together to fight hunger.

The County Manager’s Office once again coordinated a countywide effort for the Salvation Army, arranging for employees to adopt 161 Christmas Angels and donate food, clothing and toys to the needy. Our top participant was Growth and Resource Manage-ment, which accepted 40 angels. Runners up were the Property Appraiser’s Office with 10 angels and Fire Rescue with six.

Not to be outdone, Veterans Services and Votran collected hundreds of toys for the Marine Toys for Tots program, which delivered Christmas to needy children across the county.

The holidays aren’t the only time county employees help out. Many volunteer with local organizations, donate to food banks and shelters, and raise money for various charities. I’m proud to be a part of this generous group!

- George Recktenwald Interim County Manager

CONGRESSIONAL HONOR – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson places the Congressional Badge of Bravery around Sheriff’s Deputy Justin Ferrari’s neck. (Photo courtesy of the Daytona Beach News-Journal)

U.S. senator honors deputy

U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson recently awarded the Congressional Badge of Bravery to Sheriff’s Deputy Justin Ferrari, who responded to a potentially lethal situation with valor on July 24, 2016.

Deputy Ferrari and other deputies responded to a call from a Deltona woman who said her estranged husband was holding her against her will. When deputies arrived, they heard gunshots being fired from inside the home. They heard the woman screaming for help and a male suspect yelling that he was going to kill her. They also heard a child pleading, "Please don't kill Mommy," followed by another gunshot.

The deputies sprang into tactical action as more gunshots rang out. Moments later, the woman climbed out of a window while bleeding from a gunshot wound to her leg. The deputies returned fire and were in an active gunfight with the husband.

Ferrari leapt into action when he saw the injured woman pinned down in a vulnerable position. He left his position of cover and ran into the gunfire to drag the victim about 80 feet to the safety of a neighbor's front door. Upon being relieved by a fellow EMS trained officer, Deputy Ferrari re-entered the scene of the gunfight. The husband surrendered to deputies, and the woman was reunited with her three young children.

Ferrari demonstrated extreme bravery, decisiveness and a willingness to protect the lives of others, without regard to his own safety. He was also honored as the 2017 Florida Sheriff’s Association Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

Telehealth improves access to health care

When you can’t get to your doctor, Cigna Telehealth Connection is here for you. Volusia County employees and their dependents who are covered by Cigna can access the care they need – when, where and how they need it.

Say it's the middle of the night and your child is sick. Or you’re at work and not feeling well. As a Cigna member, you have access to both of Cigna's contracted telehealth providers, AM Well and MDLIVE.

Through these services, you can speak with a doctor for help with minor acute conditions such as sore throat, headache, stomachache, fever, cold and flu, allergies, rash, acne, and urinary tract infection.

How does Cigna Telehealth Connection work?

The program lets you get the care you need – including most prescriptions (when appropriate) – for a wide range of minor acute conditions. Eligible Cigna members have access to board-certified doctors through online video chat or a phone call. This program can help you get the care you need without leaving your home or office.

Choose when: Day or night, weekdays, weekends and holidays

Choose where: Home, work, on the go, or when you are traveling

Choose how: Phone or online video chat

Choose who: AM Well or MDLIVE doctors

Why use telehealth?

Televisits with AM Well and MDLIVE have a $0 copay, while a visit with your primary care provider or convenient care clinic has a $20 copay, going to an urgent care clinic will cost you a $45 copay, and an ER visit has a $150 copay.

Remember, you should only use telehealth services for non-life-threatening conditions.

Register today

Register for one or both so you’ll be ready to use a telehealth service when and where you need it.

AM Well MDLIVE amwellforcigna.com mdliveforcigna.com 855-667-9722 888-726-3171

Wellness Program honored

Cigna has honored Volusia County with a 2018 Well-Being Award for its ongoing efforts to improve employee health and wellness in 2017.

Cigna recognized the activities and programs the county has promoted to encourage wellness in the workplace, such as lunch and learn programs and the quarterly nutrition series. Cigna also praised the county’s annual Health, Wellness and Benefits Fair and applauded our efforts to make employees aware of Cigna’s online health services.

The award applicants were evaluated on the core components of their wellness programs, including goals, implementation, incentives, leadership engagement and employee participation.

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The holidays are often a time of great joy. A time when friends and family come together, reconnecting over delicious home-cooked meals. But sometimes the pressure of pleasing everyone, throwing the perfect party, or finding

that special gift can cause less than joyful feelings.

Here are some tips to help you stop sweating the small stuff so you can focus on having a healthy and relaxed holiday season.

Make the holdays about the people in your life, not the things.

Practice gratitude every day.

Eat because you’re hungry, not because you’re feeling sad or overwhelmed.

Take care of yourself as well as others.

Overspend now and you may pay later. Instead, set a limit on gifts. Or get creative and make a homemade frame, paint a picture, or make cookies and candy from scratch.

Give your time and volunteer at a local charity.

Try not to overcommit, and learn to say “no.” After all, these are your holidays too.

The gift of a stress-free holiday

For many people, stress is the first thing that comes to mind when the holidays roll around. Figuring out what makes you feel stressed and addressing it head-on can make all the difference. Consider the following stress-relievers.

Find the positive in situations, rather than dwelling on the negative.

Plan fun activities, such as going to the beach or a park.

Get up and go; take an exercise class or go walking with a friend.

Pile on the fruits and veggies for better health and well-being.

Practice portion control when eating.

Socialize! Hanging out with friends and family can do wonders for your stress levels.

Try relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga or listening to music.

Listen to your body, slow down and take regular breaks.

Indulge in a personal hobby or interest and learn to do what makes you happy.

Wrap up a safe holiday season

Here are some guidelines for holiday decorations.

Trees. If you opt for a fake tree, look for a “fire resistant” label. For live trees, buy a freshly cut one. Fill your tree stand with water regularly, since a dry tree can become a fire hazard. Place your tree away from fireplaces or portable heaters.

Lights. Before hanging lights, check the bulbs and make sure there are no frayed wires or loose connections. Only hang lights outdoors that have been certified for outdoor use. Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks. Remember to turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house.

Lisa Somers, R.N., is a Cigna employee who coordinates health programs and promotions to help employees and their dependents lead healthy lifestyles. Employees can contact her at ext. 13249 or cignaadvocate@volusia.org.

Retirements

August

Stephen Bennett, Water Resources and Utilities, 31 years

Patrick Walden, Fire Rescue, 17 years

Rhett Bradley, Fire Rescue, 30 years

Troy Hopton, Solid Waste, 31 years

September

Kevin Coello, Central Services, 25 years

Cynthia Vander Hoff, Library Services, 13 years

Elizabeth Ewers, Revenue, 30 years

Philomena Schwarz, Management and Budget, 10 years

Sergio Pacheco, Animal Control, 27 years

Mary Dove, Community Services, 11 years

October

Keith Peck, Sheriff’s Office, 24 years

Marcia Wenk, Sheriff’s Office, 12 years

Sue Johnson, Central Services, 40 years

Richard Burrow, Library Services, 13 years

William Gardner, Planning and Development, 35 years

November

Linda Lane, Engineering and Construction, 16 years

Suzan Howes, Library Services, 35 years

DIVERSITY LUNCHEONS – Volusia County employees celebrated diversity and inclusion during two luncheons in November. Serving up the good eats are, from left, Jaime Edmondson, Sherrise Boyd, Kendrick Thomas, County Council Member Joyce Cusack, Tom Motes, Donna de Peyster, Arden Fontaine and Betty Holness.

Luncheons celebrate diversity, inclusion

Diversity and inclusion took center stage at two annual luncheons as Volusia County Council Member Joyce Cusack shared her experiences growing up in Volusia County during racial segregation.

The Cultural Diversity Celebration Luncheons were held in November at Beach Safety Headquarters and the TCK Administration Center.

“We had a great turnout at both locations” said Diversity and Inclusion Specialist Jaime Edmondson, who organized the luncheons. “It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of our Diversity and Inclusion Program and for employees to share in the excitement of our plans for future initiatives.”

Councilwoman Cusack spoke at each luncheon, sharing her unique perspective as a black woman who has lived in Volusia County her entire life, including when it was segregated. She recalled water fountains marked “colored” and “white,” and described taking part in a sit-in at Woolworth’s in downtown DeLand. She also spoke about her esteemed career in public service in the Florida House of Representatives and on the County Council.

Edmondson noted that employees attending the east Volusia luncheon were able to enjoy good food and an unparalleled view of the ocean, while workers attending in DeLand were treated to barbecue ribs prepared by Mike Jones of Central Services.

“Mike has been kind enough to prepare these ribs for every diversity luncheon,” she said. “It’s a wonderful tradition. Those ribs go fast if you don’t get in line early!”

BATTALION CHIEFS – Volusia County Fire Rescue’s newest battalion chiefs are, from left, Brian Morey, John Kyp, John Bryant and David Kennedy.

Fire Rescue honors its best

Members of the Volusia County Fire Rescue team were honored for their heroism and rescues in the line of duty during a special ceremony in the Historic Courthouse.

Fire safety and service has evolved into a highly technical and skilled profession requiring ongoing study and training to stay abreast of the latest developments in firefighting and, most importantly, the preservation of life and property. Volusia County’s firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians lead the way in providing professional, caring and lifesaving service.

Among those singled out were Firefighter/EMT Gerald Krallinger, who received the silver medal of honor for his actions on March 28, when he jumped into the ocean in his uniform and swam 60 yards in the rough surf to help swimmers in distress.

Other top awards went to Matthew Daly, paramedic of the year; and Joshua Watkins,

Gerald Krallinger EMT of the year.

David Kennedy was welcomed to the team as a battalion chief, while longtime employees John Kyp, John Bryant and Bryan Morey were promoted to the position.

The following were promoted to lieutenant for their outstanding service and leadership: James Coward, Chris Davis, Shane Goebel, David Goldstein, David Kuypers, Carl Laundrie, Travis McDonough, Matt Monk, Brian Richmond, Shawn Sawran, Jeffrey Sloan and Dustin Strickland.

“We are incredibly proud to honor these men and women for their courage and service to our citizens in times of danger,” said Fire Chief Jeff Smith. “Volusia County is a better place to live, work and raise a family because so many first responders selflessly answer the call to serve each and every day.”

Revenue Division receives statewide Legacy Award

Volusia County’s Revenue Division has received the Legacy Award for excellence in financial operations from the Florida Tax Collectors Association, a collaborative network of the state’s 67 tax collectors.

A panel of government financial executives selected the division based on performance criteria including review of financial records, evidence of technological innovation and automation, customer focus and budgeting proficiency.

The Legacy Award is one of the highest honors the association awards. It’s given to agencies that previously received awards of excellence and have further enhanced their financial operations. Twenty-four agencies received the award this year.

The Revenue Division, led by Rhonda Orr, provides excellent customer service while ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability in the collection and distribution of public funds.

Catherine Skanes advances to senior budget analyst

Catherine Skanes, who joined the Management and Budget Division as an analyst in 2016, has been promoted to senior management and budget analyst.

She has a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in business administration management, both from Troy University.

Skanes has worked with Public Works’ financial operational plans and is currently assisting the Public Protection Division in developing its annual budget plans.

Sue Bartlett appointed mosquito control director

Sue Bartlett has been promoted to director of the Mosquito Control Division, replacing Jim McNelly, who accepted a position with the Mosquito Research and Control Unit in the Cayman Islands.

Bartlett, who joined Mosquito Control as an activity project manager in 2014,

previously worked for Pinellas County for 28 years.

“I love working for Volusia County Government because the focus is on families, providing the best service within our means,” Bartlett said. “Government at the county level means being involved at the heart of the community where we live, work and play.”

Bartlett is a past president of the Florida Mosquito Control Association and is working toward a business degree from St. Petersburg College.

She oversees 30 employees who provide an integrated mosquito management program throughout Volusia County.

BACKPACK BRIGADE – EVAC employees donated 48 backpacks filled with school supplies to the Children’s Home Society. The items were delivered to local foster children, letting them start the school year prepared and confident with the supplies they needed. Pictured from left to right are Johnathon and Robin Recanzone, Lauren Witham, Elizabeth Caughie with her daughter, and Kelli Jackson. We’re mighty proud of our generous employees!

The Ocean Center can accommodate meetings of 10 to 10,000 and offers more than 200,000 square feet of interior exhibit, meeting and convention space.

Ocean Center recognized

The Ocean Center has received a Readers’ Choice award from ConventionSouth magazine. This is the eighth year in a row the county-run convention center has received the prestigious award.

Meeting professionals were asked to name the meeting sites they believe display exemplary service for group events. Nominations were received from throughout the year, and the top picks were selected via online voting from more than 4,000 voters.

Tim Buckley promoted

Tim Buckley, a 15-year employee of the Ocean Center, has been promoted to director of sales and marketing.

Buckley joined the county-owned convention center’s staff in 2003 as an event coordinator and was later promoted to sales manager.

“We interviewed several very good candidates and were impressed with Tim’s vision for our marketing efforts,” said Tim Riddle, deputy director for the Ocean Center. “He has an in-depth understanding of all the facets involved in event booking, planning and execution that are invaluable in leading a sales team.”

Riddle added that Buckley also has a “great under-standing of the local market and has long-standing relationships with partner organizations including the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and area hotels that are critical to our success in gaining room-night business for the region.”

Jason Althouse honored

Ormond Strong recently presented a J.J. Martin Leadership Award to Senior Veterans Services Counselor Jason Althouse, honoring his distinguished 22-year career with the U.S. Navy.

From 1993 to 2015, Althouse rose through the enlisted ranks and was commissioned as an unrestricted line

officer after completing his bachelor's degree at the University of South Carolina. He was assigned to various duty stations across the country, earning multiple personal awards including the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation and Achievement medals.

Althouse retired from the Navy as a lieutenant commander and began working for Volusia County Veterans Services in February 2016.

The award is named for the late J.J. Martin, a past president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Daytona Beach Chapter 1048. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to their military, first responder or veterans organization.

OVER THE EDGE – Members of Volusia County Fire Rescue’s top-notch Technical Rescue Team provided assistance during Easterseals’ “Over the Edge” fundraiser in November. Locals who raised at least

$1,000 rappelled down the west-side façade of the 102-foot-high International Motorsports Center. Pictured above are Mark Spagnol, Fred McRee, Battalion Chief Kara Haun, John Lucas and Lt. Chris Hogan.

Larry Bartlett, front, with staff at the new Holly Hill office. Employees, from left to right, are Corliss Cooks, Chris Flynn, Sherry Glass, Robin Realmuto, Andrea Bolles, Tammy Brown, Karen Chipman and Carolyn Stamey.

Property Appraiser opens Holly Hill office

Volusia County has opened a new Property Appraiser’s office at 921 N. Nova Road, Holly Hill. The office’s phone number is 386-254-4601.

The eastside office had been operating out of the health department building on Holsonback Drive since September 2017, when Hurricane Irma flooded the county administration center on Beach Street.

“We are better able serve our citizens from this new office, which is spacious, centrally located and has convenient parking,” said Property Appraiser Larry Bartlett.

The property appraiser also has offices at:

123 W. Indiana Ave., Room 102, DeLand (386-736-5901)

113 E. Canal St., New Smyrna Beach (386-423-3315)

2742-A Enterprise Road, Orange City (386-775-5257).

All four offices are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

VICTORY LAP – Runners round a turn at Daytona International Speedway.

Half Marathon expands

The Daytona Beach Half Marathon is back and better than ever! The 2019 race event is now a weekend affair with activities on Feb. 9 and 10.

The Feb. 9 Beachin’ It 5K is an out-and-back on the beach that begins at Cocina 214 and LandShark Bar & Grill in Daytona Beach.

The half marathon starts on the track of Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 10 and does a lap before heading east toward the Atlantic Ocean, over the International Speedway Bridge, where runners will run on the hard-packed sand. Runners will head back, cross the Main Street Bridge and return on ISB to finish at ONE DAYTONA for the ultimate post-race party.

Want more? There are two challenge opportunities:

1. For the Dual 5K Challenge, complete the Beachin' It 5K on Saturday and Lap the Track 5K on Sunday. Dual 5K Challenge finishers will receive a Beachin' It 5K medal, Lap the Track 5K medal and a Challenge medal that has a spinner!

2. For the Speedway Challenge, complete the Beachin' It 5K and Half Marathon. Speedway Challenge finishers will receive a Beachin' It 5K medal, a half marathon medal and a Challenge medal. Participants will also receive a unique Speedway Challenge branded apparel item.

County employees can get a 10 percent discount on the half marathon, relay or either challenge by using code DBHMVC19 during registration.

Register by Dec. 31 to beat late registration prices. Follow the Daytona Beach Half Marathon on Facebook or online at www.daytonabeachhalf.com. Volunteer opportunities are also available. For more information, send an email to volunteer@daytonabeachhalf.com.

Two new airlines take flight

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) is pleased to welcome two new airlines that will begin operations in January.

Silver Airways will begin daily, non-stop flight service between Fort Lauderdale International Airport and DAB beginning Jan. 16. Silver offers convenient connections to Key West and many popular Bahamian islands. Additionally, Silver offers connections to a variety of destinations through its ticketing partners, which include United, JetBlue, Avianca, Azul Brazilian Airlines and others.

Sunwing will begin twice weekly, seasonal, non-stop service to DAB on Jan. 28. This airline will be the only Canadian carrier to offer non-stop, international flights to Daytona Beach. The air service will create an opportunity for increased tourism in Volusia County and provide an additional travel destination for local residents. Sunwing offers flights and vacation packages from 33 Canadian airports to more than 45 of the most popular vacation sunshine destinations.

Share the news!

Did you recently earn a college degree, receive an award or certification, perform valuable community service, or come up with a great idea to reduce costs or improve service in your department? Is your division doing something new and exciting?

If so, please send your story to Kevin Captain at kcaptain@volusia.org or Pat Kuehn at pkuehn@volusia.org.

Volusia County Council

Ed Kelley, County Chair

Joyce Cusack, At-large

Deb Denys, Vice Chair, District 3

Pat Patterson, District 1 Billie Wheeler, District 2 Heather Post, District 4

Dr. Fred Lowry, District 5