Stepping up to the plate, David Alfin has quickly become one of Palm Coast’s biggest cheerleaders.
Always one to extoll the benefits of living in the family-friendly community in the past, as mayor, he’s embraced the role with unfettered enthusiasm. By doing so, Alfin has helped lead the growing community into a new era of opportunity.
Delivering the 2022 State of the City address on April 21 to more than 120 guests at the Palm Coast Community Center, Alfin recapped of all of the positive things that have happened in the city over the past year, calling Palm Coast “a place where if we can dream it, we can do it, together.”
“Great things are happening all around us,” said Alfin. “There has never been a better time to live in Palm Coast.”
Building on Palm Coast’s strong foundation that includes a commitment to a high quality of life for residents, Alfin talked MedNexus partnerships, new businesses and economic growth, as he looked to the future.
From the return of community events such as Food Truck Tuesdays and Movies in the Park, to the happiness of residents enjoying the amenities here, whether it’s outdoor self-guided activities or structured recreation through the city’s parks and recreation department, the city is pretty close to firing on all cylinders according to the annual report.
“We were delighted to get back to enjoying these special events together and being able to assist you and your family in creating special moments and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Alfin.
Alfin spent time recognizing staff and departments for their hard work and award-winning contributions, before announcing three very special recognitions from the community.
Serving as president of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Flagler Palm Coast High School student Bryan Soudrain was recognized as the recipient of the 2021 Next Generation Award.
“The Junior Chamber is a growing group of more than 50 high school students locally, who have enriched their community and focused on their future. Bryan is a shining example to his peers and to us all,” said Alfin, presenting the award.
Holding back tears, Alfin recognized Joe Rizzo, executive director of the Flagler County Education Foundation, whose passing last month came as a shock to all who knew him. Rizzo was named the 2021 Citizen of the Year, and his wife Teresa Rizzo and daughter Caroline were on hand to accept the award on his behalf.
Also recognized posthumously, Bunnell Sgt. Dominic Guido, whose passing in November 2021 shook the law enforcement community, was named this year’s recipient of the Public Service Award. “We did not know this was happening until the other day,” shared Dominic’s sister Andrea Feagle. “It’s a very special award and unfortunately I’d rather him be here to get it than us. I think the more we go to these things you get in touch with people you wouldn’t have realized he touched in his life.”
