CITY’S IT LEADERSHIP SHOWCASED AT KEY INDUSTRY CONFERENCES The City of Daytona Beach will be well represented at two upcoming Information Technology conferences where three of its IT leaders will serve as panelists for discussions about the future of government technology and cybersecurity. Hossam Reziqa, Chief Information Officer, and Charles Smarr, IT Solutions Manager, will join regional peers at the upcoming Central Florida Digital Government Summit for a session exploring how agencies can navigate workforce challenges such as retirements, shifting roles and skills gaps while strengthening their internal capabilities. Attendees will hear practical strategies for upskilling staff, improving digital literacy across departments and capturing institutional knowledge to ensure continuity.
A BOND BEYOND SERVICE: SUPPORTING A HOMELESS VETERAN AND HIS LOYAL COMPANION For many experiencing homelessness, pets provide emotional support and a sense of purpose. David, a local homeless veteran, has found comfort and companionship in his dog, Baby Girl. The loyal pitbull mix stands faithfully by David’s side through every challenge. Daytona Beach Animal Control Officer James Lee, also a veteran, recently connected with David through the common bond of military service. Officer Lee built rapport with David, recognizing both his circumstances and the importance of Baby Girl in his life.
Officer Lee provided David with a care package for Baby Girl. The package included: • New dog collar and leash
Hossam Reziqa Nathan Boyles Charles Smarr
• Collapsible dog bowl • Dog food and snacks • Dog waste bags • Animal care materials The city’s Animal Services Unit is expanding the initiative by distributing care packages to other individuals experiencing homelessness who have dogs. Special thanks to the Halifax Humane Society and residents for the generous contributions in making these care packages possible.
Reziqa and Nathan Boyles, the city’s Cybersecurity Engineer, will serve as panelists at the KB4-CON: The premiere human risk management event, next month. They will discuss the city’s initiatives to prepare coworkers against AI threats utilizing the KnowBe4 platform. Reziqa, Smarr and Boyles’s participation at these conferences underscore Daytona Beach’s commitment to forward-thinking IT leadership and its role in shaping digital government in Central Florida.
HURRICANE EXPO Daytona Beach Emergency Management is participating in Saturday’s Hurricane Expo at the Daytona International Speedway, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The family-friendly event is open to the community, and admission is free. The Hurricane Expo is hosted by the Volusia County Organizations Active in Disasters (COAD) in partnership with Volusia County Emergency Management.
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