To Chamber Members from Howie, the Avon Man
Avon has never done this kind of promotion. Avon has responded to the pandemic, Covid 19. And Chamber members STILL get 15% all products. Yes, a Buy One Get One Free of the same item. Text Howie at 407-373-4293 or Email him at hra246@gmail.com with full contact information. Avon Defense Hand Cleansing Wipes - 10 Count - (Item # 070-742) or 50 Count (Item # 070-661) Wipe the day away! These portable disposable cleansing wipes gently and easily remove dirt and germs anytime, anywhere.
Seminole State To Offer Free Zoom Theatre Productions For Fall 2020
SANFORD, Fla. (Sept. 22, 2020) - No one has been as resilient as the faculty, staff and students of Seminole State College of Florida’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts. The center was forced to relocate its programs due to the sudden closure of their building and then had to transition their classes with the rest of the College to go remote in the face of the coronavirus. They have remained remote during the Fall 2020 semester for the safety of their students, but as the saying goes, the show must go
Seminole State joins Florida Department of Education “Get There” initiative
SANFORD, Fla. (Sept. 24, 2020) - Seminole State College of Florida has partnered with the Florida Department of Education for their Get There workforce education initiative. The initiative aims to bring awareness to Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificates as an alternative to the four-year university track. By connecting students with educational opportunities and career pathways in their communities, the initiative helps students earn their credentials faster and begin their career in an
Are We As Great If Our Nation is Built On Hate?
Each day as our world evolves, we are witness to momentous, and at times, senseless and detestable moments in our country and the world’s center stage. As some of the more heinous events unfold, we often find the same underlying factor: hate. Ever disheartened by current affairs (and thinking back on a myriad of tragedies bygone) the world seems fairly clear of its feelings with regards to people of color – specifically Black people. The question I pose is why? Brutally forced from African shores into
Tech Rage IT is a Proud Sponsor of the Florida Sterling Manufacturing Business Excellence Awards
Florida-based technology firm celebrates the State’s high-performing manufacturers. Winter Springs, Fla., September 30, 2020 – Tech Rage IT will be sponsoring the 2020 Florida Sterling Manufacturing Business Excellence Awards celebrating ten Florida-based manufacturing companies named as finalists. FloridaMakes and the Florida Sterling Council collaborated on these statewide awards to recognize Florida’s high-performing manufacturers. The virtual celebration is at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 2, 2020. “We are
Shepherd’s Hope & Sand Lake Imaging “GET A MAMMOGRAM, GIVE A MAMMOGRAM” initiative provides free screenings to women in need during PINK OCTOBER
For Immediate Release I September 11, 2020 (Orlando, Maitland, & The Villages, Florida) – Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Every year, more than 250,000 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed; an average of one woman every two minutes. Unfortunately, many women in Central Florida will forgo this important annual screening because they lack health insurance. Shepherd’s Hope and Sand Lake Imaging are partnering to provide free mammograms to women in need in our Central Florida
Oct. 2, Panera Bread Goes Pink for Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center
Orlando, FL — On Fri., Oct. 2, 46 participating Panera Bread bakery-cafes will donate 100% of the proceeds of each Signature Pink Ribbon Bagel sold to Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center. For over a decade, the two organizations have teamed up locally to promote breast cancer awareness and raise money for breast cancer research. “Panera, the Covelli family and Orlando Health Foundation Board member, Annette and husband, Gavin Ford, have generously supported the cancer center through their Pink Ribbon
Arbonne launches new Age Well Skincare Line!
Introducing NEW AgeWell, our most innovative skincare collection that embraces a holistic approach to aging --- starring Bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative to retinol. The AgeWell skincare collection offers visibly significant results that work hand-in-hand with your conscious, mindful lifestyle choices. The true secret to aging well is a holistic approach called MIND. BODY. SKIN.™ Dive into this philosophy and learn how the brain, digestive health and skin’s appearance are intricately connected.
Tech Rage IT’s Matt Rose Tapped as a stemConnect Classroom Resource
Director of Technology Services will serve as a STEM expert speaker for the program Winter Springs, Fla., August 16, 2020 – Tech Rage IT’s director of technology services, Matt Rose, will be a STEM expert speaker for stemConnect, a program of the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. The program connects K-12 students spanning 23 counties across Florida’s High-Tech Corridor with professionals in areas focused on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. As a classroom resource, Rose will have the
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UCF Business Incubators Launching Business Modeling Boot Camp
Eight-week course moves entrepreneurs’ ideas into viable business opportunities. Orlando, Fla. (September 23, 2020) – At some point, every great entrepreneur had a great idea that turned into a great company – sometimes even a great industry. But how did they know it had the potential to be a great company? The UCF Business Incubation Program wants to help local entrepreneurs figure that out and move from an idea to a business with its new Business Modeling Boot Camp program. Through a series of
Wharton-Smith / Garney JV Project Earns Two Prestigious Award
SANFORD, FLORIDA, September 21, 2020—Wharton-Smith Construction Group announced today that their Joint-Venture project completed for Hillsborough County in Florida with Garney Construction is a double award winner. The Northwest Regional Water Reclamation Facility (NWRWRF) Expansion, located in Tampa, FL, recently received the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Southeast Regional Project of the Year for 2020 and the 2020 Florida Regional Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Water Project of the
Seminole County Fire Department Awarded Department of Homeland Security COVID-19 Grant
Seminole County, FL - September 22, 2020 - Seminole County Board of County Commissioners and Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) was awarded an Assistance to Firefighter Grant Program - COVID-19 Supplemental funding from the Department of Homeland Security in the amount of $185,819.98, including matching funds of $18,582.00 for a total approved amount of $204,401.98. Seminole County Fire Department will utilize the grant funding to enhance its response to the community in the face of the historic
Mammograms Offer the Best Chance of Early Detection
“Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women in the U.S., so staying on top of your annual mammograms could save your life,” says Leena Kamat, MD, a board-certified radiologist specializing in breast imaging. With getting used to new routines, you may be feeling like days have gotten even more hectic lately. But scheduling important health care appointments, like regular preventive mammograms, should still be a priority. The American College of Radiology (ACR) explains that a
Farmers Insurance® Agent Steffanie Rigetta of Altamonte Springs, Florida Named Among Insurer’s Best
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (Sept. 23, 2020) – Steffanie Rigetta, of Altamonte Springs, Florida, has been named a Topper Club agent by Farmers Insurance® for her outstanding achievement and customer-focused efforts by the Los Angeles-based, multi-line insurer. “On behalf of Farmers®, I’m proud to recognize Steffanie Rigetta as a Topper Club agent,” said Dave Pucci, Farmers Insurance Territory Executive. “Those who qualify as Topper Club agents are among the best in the country and we sincerely appreciate all
Einstein Advisors Welcomes Bruce Weller
Einstein Advisors is pleased to announce that Bruce Weller has joined our team of financial professionals. His impressive life experiences will be of great value to our agency and to his clients. ____________________________________________ Bruce Weller is an amazing individual that we at Einstein Advisors are delighted to bring to our team. He comes to Einstein Advisors with a proven track record of excellence, and a genuine desire to help people. A long-time Central Florida resident, Bruce
Chair the Love presents Cuisine for the Cause featuring Chef Norman Van Aken
Chef Norman, widely hailed as one of the founders of New American Cuisine and winner of the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the South/Southeast, will guide you through a virtual cooking class to raise money for Chair the Love. Cuisine for the Cause will kick off with an introduction by Chef Norman and a presentation about Chair the Love, followed by a step-by-step recipe and ending with the presentation of the final dish. Guests will have the opportunity to register for extra time with Chef Norman as
Seminole State College Wins National Award For Advancing Diversity
SANFORD, Fla. (Sept. 21, 2020) – Seminole State College of Florida has been honored with the American Association of Community College’s 2020 Award of Excellence for Advancing Diversity. This national award recognizes that the College has contributed significantly, and over a sustained period, to advancing diversity in community college leadership, the community and within education as a whole. “This recognition reflects Seminole State’s culture of student achievement,” said Seminole State President Dr.
On The + Side: Puzzles, Better Breakfasts and Knights Pantry
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how Knights Pantry has served UCF students during the pandemic, ways to glam up your next cauliflower dish and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Andrea Mahoney receives new Zoho Analytics Certification
(Longwood, September 25, 2020) Certified Computer Solutions announces a new certification in Zoho Analytics. Zoho Analytics is one of the leading global business intelligence tools. It brings multiple data sources together to a single platform hosting over 50M reports and is used by over 500,000 businesses. Zoho Analytics offers powerful BI tools for over 2 Million users worldwide. Its robust AI tool, Zia, provides predictive analytics bringing everything together from sales, web and marketing reports
Managing Your Finances During a Pandemic
Jim Adamczyk – SEVP/CLO, FAIRWINDS Credit Union, recently shared his expertise with 105.9 SUNNY FM’s Michael Rafferty, regarding whether now is a good time to refinance a mortgage, if zero-percent financing for an auto is the best solution, and overall tips for managing finances during a pandemic. Click here to listen to the interview, available on-demand.About FAIRWINDS Credit UnionFAIRWINDS Credit Union is a financial institution committed to exceptional member experiences that offers products and
HCA Healthcare North Florida Division Expands Internal Medicine Practice in Lake Mary
Lake Mary, Fla., Sept. 17, 2020 –Diana Moldoveanu, MD., Internal Medicine, has joined Primary Care Center at Lake Mary, an affiliate of Central Florida Regional Hospital and HCA Healthcare North Florida Division – Orlando Market. Dr. Moldoveanu provides primary care for adults with a special focus on chronic medical issues and the geriatric population. “As an internist, I am responsible, first and foremost, for helping my patients maintain optimal health to prevent the onset of disease, like diabetes
Seminole County Funding Resident Scholarships to Attend Seminole State
SANFORD, Fla. (Sept. 16, 2020) – Seminole County residents looking to upskill or reskill to advance or begin their careers can take free classes at Seminole State through scholarships provided by Seminole County government. The County is utilizing a portion of its Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) funds to pay for tuition, fees, books and instructional costs for current Seminole State College students who are Seminole County residents and can complete a credential at the
Shepherd’s Hope Presents Mask-R-Aid, A Broadcast Event Honoring Its Healthcare Heroes
The broadcast event will also raise funds to support the non-profit’s mission to provide free medical care to Central Florida’s uninsured and under-insured For Immediate Release |September 15, 2020 (Orlando, FL) – On Saturday, October 24, 2020, members of the community, business leaders and supporters will gather at viewing locations across the country for an exciting broadcast event to celebrate the Healthcare Heroes of Shepherd’s Hope that will provide the support necessary for maintaining
7 Years of Free Marketing Help
1,700 Businesses Benefit from Expert Guidance Orlando, FL – September 16, 2020 – The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and communications consultancy, announced today that its VIP Partner Club membership has grown to over 1,700 businesses and non-profit organizations during its 7-year existence. The company’s VIP Partner Club enables its members to receive free expert assistance launching and optimizing their email marketing campaigns and social media marketing
Talos Health Solutions Partners with Seminole County Chamber for Business Resource Showcase
Partner organizations able to premier high-tech solutions for business expos in the COVID-19 worldLake Mary, Fla. (September 18, 2020) – Orlando-based Talos Health Solutions has formed a technology partnership with the Seminole County Chamber to spotlight a new type of trade show perfect for businesses to utilize during COVID-19 and long after.The Business Resource Showcase will launch on Wednesday, September 30 and will bring a significant amount of resources to businesses, without them having to leave
UCF Forum: Each Generation Must Act as a Cultural Bridge to the Next
Our passed-down stories give a sense of belonging, purpose, place and greater meaning. By Chung ParkUCF Forum columnist Of the many things that I thought about during a pandemic — from fear of contracting the illness to instability as an employee to broader societal concerns — my mind kept returning to what our thoughts and actions reflected about our Culture. As T.S. Eliot states with such melancholy in his poem Ash Wednesday — “Because these wings are no longer wings to fly / But merely vans to beat
Shepherd’s Hope and Medek Health Providing Free COVID-19 Antibody Testing
Local groups partner to provide crucial first step in testing at Shepherd’s Hope West Orange Health Center September 23 For Immediate Release |September 21, 2020 (Orlando, FL) – As our region looks for ways to continue keeping the spread of COVID-19 under control, two local organizations are teaming up to bring free antibody tests in West Orange County. On September 23, Shepherd’s Hope and Medek Health will be providing free COVID-19 antibody tests for uninsured and under-insured men, women and children
What is the Process?
At Rise and Shine CF, Consulting Firm one common question we ask clients is, what’s the process? Whether you are the owner or an employee that might be a question you get asked often. Let’s face it we are process thinkers. Here’s how you can tell. You go into a local store and on instinct you begin to dissect the store. You inspect the quality of their retail and/or produce, you review the transaction process, was it easy to purchase and finally you look at the speed of delivery. If you have done these
Seminole Science Charter Competition Math Students Take Home Honors
In the first month of the Fall semester, Seminole Science Charter School’s Competition Math students participated in their first online qualifying round. Several students placed in the top ten for their grade level, including: Logan C. – 9th Place in 3rd GradeRonit P.- 4th place in 4th GradeAnagha A- 6th Place in 4th GradeNakul K.- 9th Place in 4th Grade Prachi K- 3rd Place in 5th GradeSoham J.- 4th Place in 5th GradeAarush V.- 5th Place in 5th GradeThe students had just one practice before the qualifying
Seminole State College officially recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution
SANFORD, Fla. (Sept. 15, 2020) – Seminole State College of Florida has been recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU). This designation, which notes that a college or university’s Hispanic enrollment makes up at least 25% of its total enrollment, recognizes the rich diversity of Seminole State’s student population. While Seminole State’s Fall 2018 enrollment report to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) showed
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Downtown Innovation District Nearly Doubles in Size Since January
New client companies prove entrepreneurs still creating jobs and businesses Orlando, Fla. (September 14, 2020) – After launching the Downtown Innovation District in January, targeted companies are flocking to be a part of it. As of September 1, the Downtown Innovation District has nearly doubled in size, with seven companies now committed to the District.Combined, the companies sustain 31 jobs and are planning to hire an additional 30 to 40 employees over the next 12 months. “As the effects of the
SCPS FREE Student Meals Through Dec. 18th
Beginning TODAY, SCPS students 18 and under are now elgible to receive FREE student meals (breakfast and lunch) through December 18th. Please see details below: SCPS Families, We are pleased to announce that all children and teens 18 and under are eligible to receive nutritious breakfast and lunch meals at no charge through December 18th, or earlier as determined by the USDA. This includes student guests attending face to face and all remote learners. Face to face student guests: for menus and
On The + Side: Dinner Shows, Fairy Gardens and Dorm Life
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about ways to observe Hispanic Heritage Month, socially distanced local activities, a free hotline for parents who are homeschooling, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Seminole State Transforming STEM Through Leaps And Bounds
Seminole State secures National Science Foundation grant for STEM diversitySeminole State College of Florida has secured a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to form the NSF Leaps and Bounds S-STEM Scholarship program. The grant has a maximum award size of $650,000 to be used to improve learning experiences and support programs for student progression. Student scholarships will make up 60 percent of the use of the funding for full two-year scholarships for those pursuing a biology-related
SCPS COVID-19 Dashboard
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) created a COVID-19 Data Dashboard that will help inform parents, students, staff, and the community about positive cases throughout the school district. The dashboard is live starting today and can be found by clicking here. (or https://www.scps.k12.fl.us/covid19/dashboard.stml) Schools impacted by COVID-19 positive cases will be listed along with the total number of employees and students throughout the district for each campus. The COVID-19 Data
Inspiring Employee Motivation
Employee motivation is important in any business. It can be the difference between an employee that will go above and beyond - when no one is around - and one that will do a poor job, even when someone IS watching. And ultimately, those actions can make the difference between increasing and decreasing business revenue. Of course, hiring the right employee is critical. But even when that is done correctly, it is possible for great employees to lose the fire and motivation they once had. In fact, it's not
Three Central Florida Organizations Receive Seed Money to Address Health Disparities, Earn Opportunity to Win More Funding
Lake Nona, Fla. – Sept. 10, 2020 – Florida Blue’s parent company GuideWell today selected three Central Florida organizations to receive seed money to implement their innovative ideas to address barriers to health access and health literacy. The Center for Multicultural Wellness and Prevention, the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Resource Center and the Center for Quality Medication Management at the University of Florida were selected from a group of 10 regional innovators across Central Florida to receive $5,000
Deborah Moran, REALTOR® with ERA Grizzard wins 'Best of Sanford'
ERA Grizzard REALTOR Deborah Moran was named the Readers' Choice Award Winner, Best Realtor in the Best of Sanford Awards. Hosted by My Sanford Magazine, the award ceremony event highlights the best of the city of Sanford from individuals to favorite businesses in the area. Moran is known for her service and dedication to home buyers and sellers throughout Sanford, Florida, earning her the win for Readers' Choice, Realtor Category."Deborah is a true professional from her commitment to her clients to her
Roger B. Kennedy Construction Wins ABC Eagle Award
Central Florida Contractor Is Recognized by The Associated Builders and Contractors Central Florida Chapter Roger B. Kennedy Construction announces their recognition in the Central Florida Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors Excellence in Construction Awards. The Central Florida based general contractor won the Eagle Award for their ECCO on Orange Apartments project, located in the SoDo District of downtown Orlando. Roger B. Kennedy Construction completed the upscale ECCO on Orange
Florida Blue Deepens Commitment to Coastal Central Florida by Adding Local Executive to Region
LAKE MARY, Fla. – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, recently named a new executive leader devoted to meeting the needs, challenges and opportunities in Brevard, Volusia and Flagler counties. Tanya Easterling will serve as the company’s Coastal Central Florida Market Leader as part of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield plan’s efforts to deepen its longstanding and successful local approach to supporting the diverse needs of members and businesses in each of Florida’s communities. This model
UCF Forum: Finding a Sense of Belonging in an Orlando Community
It’s easy enough to miss the unassuming buildings on Parramore Avenue just a few blocks from UCF Downtown. You might walk by on your way to an Orlando City soccer game or overlook the space as your eyes settle on the high-rise apartment towers a few blocks away. But look carefully, and you’ll see the doors to New Image Youth Center. I first saw them myself six years ago, not long after I’d moved to town. *** Less than a year earlier, my fiancé and I had bought a house in Pittsburgh, had a great
A Plant-Based Diet Supports Cancer Prevention
The American Institute on Cancer Research found that approximately 40% of cancer cases might be prevented with a healthy diet and lifestyle changes. For one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., that’s a number so powerful, it’s worth learning more. Supporting research within the study of Lifestyle Medicine indicates that eating a diet rich with whole, plant-based foods shows particular promise for preventing cancers of the digestive tract as well as hormone-sensitive cancers, like breast and
Free Business Software
Orlando, FL – September 9, 2020 –The Countess Group has expanded its product and service offering as an affiliate of GrooveDigital. GrooveDigital, a software development company led by CEO Mike Filsaime, is focused on creating the most powerful, affordable and simple to use all-in-one software service that you can use to build, grow and manage an online business. Recently, in an effort to help people develop a business from home and do their part to respond to the global Covid-19 crisis, GrooveDigital
Addition Financial Opens Branch in Eustis
Lake Mary, Fla. (September 9, 2020) – In order to expand its reach in Lake County, Addition Financial has opened its newest branch in Eustis. This branch is Addition Financial’s third in Lake County, joining branches in Clermont and Leesburg. “At Addition Financial, we’re proud to be a part of the Lake County community. Our mission is to bring financial education and success to everyone, and we look forward to continuing to serve that mission through our Eustis branch,” said Kevin Miller, President and
On The + Side: Change Makers, Cookie Dough and Baby Rhinos
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about Mindfulness Day, mentorship opportunities, what to do with the extra cookie dough from your ice cream, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
HCA Healthcare Named A Best Employer For Veterans By Military Times
NASHVILLE, Tenn., September 1, 2020 –HCA Healthcare (NYSE: HCA), one of the nation’s leading healthcare providers, today announced that it has been recognized by Military Times as one of the country's best employers based on the organization’s military-connected employment programs, benefits and support efforts. Since 2012, HCA Healthcare has hired more than 39,000 veterans, active-duty personnel and military spouses. “HCA Healthcare has a strong and longstanding connection to the U.S. armed
Networking for the “New Normal”
When was the last time you went out with your coworkers for lunch? Or had a breakfast meeting at your favorite spot? Social events have been in short supply these days, but maintaining a social network is still essential – especially as millions of Americans are looking for work. Who you know is a very large part of the job search, so it’s not a stretch to say that networking can be the single most important skill in your repertoire. Most people associate the word “networking” with office parties,
Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin Announces Retirement
(SANFORD, FL) – Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin has announced his retirement from the district for the Spring of 2021. Walt has been an educator for 40 years, 37 of those here in Seminole County. Throughout his exceptional career, he has served as a Math Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, High School Executive Director, and for the past nine years, as Superintendent. During his tenure as Superintendent, while working with an extraordinary team and board, there
Fresh Kitchen Lake Mary Now Offering Curbside Pick-up
LAKE MARY, Fla. - (Sept. 4, 2020) — Fresh Kitchen (FK), the popular build-your-own-bowl quick-service restaurant concept, is now offering convenient curb-side pick up at its’ newest Lake Mary location. Guests can now order, fresh-healthy food, and have it delivered directly to their car. To celebrate the new service, now through Oct. 31, all curbside orders will include a Free Bowl card valid for a future visit. Guests that order curbside can expect the full menu, just as if they were dining in. Made
There’s Still Time to Register for Fall Term at Seminole State
The Fall 12-Week Session begins Sept. 14. Student Services is available virtually to help students get started.SANFORD, Fla. (Sept. 4, 2020) – The Fall Term at Seminole State College of Florida is underway, but there’s still time for students to begin or continue their college education in Seminole State’s 12-Week Session, which begins Sept. 14. Registration is open with space available in nearly 150 courses, so there is plenty to choose from. With most classes being offered in online and remote format and
Andrea Mahoney earns Zoho CRM certification
(Longwood, September 11, 2020) Certified Computer Solutions’ Andrea Mahoney has earned a new certification in top ranked Zoho CRM, one of the world’s leading CRM packages. Zoho offers powerful tools for over 50 Million users worldwide. “Zoho started offering a certification process last year and we are excited to add it to our portfolio”, says Andrea Mahoney. Zoho has been disrupting the CRM space for 16 years and has over 45 apps in its Zoho One offering. It offers the best value for our customers,
Chris Anderson Announces There Will Be A New Early Voting Center In The City Of Altamonte Springs
Sanford, FL (September 3, 2020) – Seminole County voters will now have an additional early voting center located 1140 East Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs FL. Early Voting at Altamonte Springs was once a Party City franchise store and is now a 10,000 square foot early voting center that will keep voters safely distanced while they cast their ballots. “The space comes at no cost to the taxpayers of Seminole County as the property owners, who are in Houston, Texas, understand the importance of
UCF Forum: The Times They ARE a-Changing!
Perhaps Bob Dylan said it best in his 1964 protest song, The Times They Are a-Changin’. If you don’t believe it, let me say the secret to the future IS in the past. With all the current upheaval of racial, political, sexual and anti-violence values, I find that it is all somehow familiar, with some noteworthy differences. I am all for positive change, just as I was in the ‘60s and ‘70s, and still am. I have seen enough of history in 60+ years to see it repeating itself again. Young people and old alike
Seminole State Receives 2020 Heed Award
Seminole State College of Florida has once again received the 2020 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. This is the seventh consecutive year the College has been named as a HEED Award recipient. As a recipient of the annual HEED Award, a national honor recognizing U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion, Seminole State
The Perfect Storm
Rise and Shine, CF invites you to challenge yourself this month. We are in September, the month of self-improvement. What are you doing to improve your health, your finances, your relationships, and your career, your spiritual and mental well-being? Let’s replenish the drive, the creativity, the hopes and the dreams. Let us slow down... so we... can speed up. During this month of self-improvement let it start with our mental well-being. How are you doing? What self-care routine have you maintained or
ACE Human Resources Extends Hot Deal in Gratitude of #SupportSeminole Success
On August 31st, ACE Human Resources announced their decision to extend their Hot Deal for “Ongoing HR Services” through the end of Quarter 3 for small businesses to take advantage of their professional services offered. The Seminole County Chamber’s #SupportSeminole initiative assisted ACE Human Resources’ reach to the community and the company’s owner is grateful. Several small businesses were served in August 2020 by ACE Human Resources with different projects completed under the Hot Deal. Between the
UF/IFAS Extension, Seminole County Accepting Master Gardener Volunteer Applications for 2021 Class
The UF/IFAS Extension, Seminole County, in partnership with Orange and Osceola Counties, will be offering an online 12 week course to those interested in becoming Master Gardener Volunteers starting in January. The deadline for applications is October 12th, 2020 and interviews for prospective Master Gardeners will take place October 12th – October 16th. Master Gardener Volunteers are volunteers who have received roughly 70 hours of training and in their first year give back to the community 75 hours of
Central Florida Regional Hospital Receives Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award
SANFORD, Fla. (Sept. 1, 2020) ― Central Florida Regional Hospital has received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence. Central Florida Regional Hospital earned the award by meeting specific quality
Einstein Advisors Welcomes Cheryl Blakeney
Einstein Advisors is pleased to announce that Cheryl Blakeney has joined our team of financial professionals. Her remarkable experience in the insurance and financial industry will be of great value to our agency and to her clients. ____________________________________________ Cheryl Blakeney is a truly remarkable woman that we at Einstein Advisors are delighted to bring to our team. She comes to Einstein Advisors with a proven track record of excellence, and a genuine desire to help people. Cheryl
Former DEA Agent Welcomed As New Dean For The Center For Public Safety
Seminole State College of Florida welcomes Dr. Alex Toth as the new dean of the Center for Public Safety.Toth joined the College in August 2020 following his time as an assistant professor at the University of Tampa in the department of criminology and criminal justice. Prior to his time in academia, Toth built up an extensive background in law enforcement and leadership in the U.S. Army, the Orlando Police Department and over 25 years with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). While at the DEA, he
Seminole Science Charter School wins Seminole Business Award
Seminole Science Charter School was recognized as the winner in the Large Non-Profit category at Seminole County Chamber of Commerce’s 2020 Seminole Business Awards. School staff including Executive Director and founder, Dr. Yalcin Akin, and Community Outreach Coordinator, Becc Lester-Beam, attended the awards ceremony on Aug. 27. “Seminole Science Charter has been so blessed by our wonderful staff and families, and to receive this award is truly a humbling experience,” said Becc Lester-Beam. “We could not
On The + Side: Magical Dining, Yoga and Sports Business
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about ways to observe National Yoga Month, scents to help you fall asleep, Magical Dining adventures, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
A Statement Regarding the Loss of Utilities Operations Distribution Mechanic Tomasz Sajkowski
The Seminole County Board of County Commissioners and its employees are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Tomasz Sajkowski, Utilities Operations Distribution Mechanic. Tomasz has been part of the Seminole County team since November 2019. He was an experienced utilities professional, a valued team member, and above all, a dedicated husband and father of two beautiful children. Our most heartfelt condolences, thoughts, and prayers are extended to the Sajkowski family and friends. The loss of Tomasz
How To Effectively Personalize Your Brand Experience With Customer Appreciation
Everyone likes to feel appreciated. And when they feel appreciated, they stick around. Imagine you purchase from two brands, both of which have similar products and prices. Company A sends out a generic email after every purchase, asking what you thought of the process and product. You notice the email but rarely fill out the survey. Company B asks about your experience too, but it's different. They personalize the message, they follow-up with a thank you when you complete it and every now and then
Orlando Health selected as one of America’s Best-In-State Employers
Orlando, FL (August 27, 2020) – Orlando Health has been named by Forbes as one of America’s Best-In-State Employers for 2020! The healthcare system came in at number 24 in Florida, out of 100 employers. The rankings were based on feedback from a survey of 80,000 Americans who work for businesses with a minimum of 500 employees. Forbes partnered with Statista, a provider of market and consumer data, to conduct the survey from October 2019 to May 2020. “We are so proud of the culture we have created at
CREATE Event Design & Management launches new website and podcast!
CREATE Event Design Launches BRAND NEW Website & Podcast!CREATE Event Design & Management provides innovative event design expertise for corporate and social events throughout the state of Florida. Headquartered in Central Florida, our team specializes in transformative design for clients looking for environments that showcase their personalized story, style and brand. CREATE’s team incorporates visually stimulating décor, using live or virtual entertainment and innovative personalization to achieve
Focusing on Your Mental Health While Setting Boundaries at Home
Are you starting to feel like your home is turning into more of an office, or a school, or both? The thought of finding tranquility and balance may feel more difficult today than it was before our lives were changed by the coronavirus pandemic. From routines, deadlines and ways of life, for most of us, our day-to-day now probably looks nothing like it did a few months ago. At times like this, it’s more important than ever to focus on your mental health. It is perfectly normal to not feel quite like
RMI Family-Owned Human Resources Company Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary
Resource Management, Inc. (RMI) announces its 25th anniversary as a national, full-service Human Resource Outsourcing & Professional Employer Organization (PEO). The journey started back in 1988, when CEO and Founder of RMI, Rey Lopez changed careers and started his own janitorial business, R&M Maintenance. Owning his own business gave him first-hand experience of being an employer in a highly competitive industry, which he quickly learned lacked profit margin to pay employees well enough to motivate
UCF Forum: Reality of My Daughter’s Home Schooling During Pandemic Has Begun to Sink In
A new semester is upon us, and this past Monday I helped my fourth-grade get ready for her first day of school. As always, we woke up at 7 a.m., washed up, had breakfast, got ready, and I did her hair — but one thing was different. Instead of getting in the car to rush to school, this time, we merely took a short walk from the living room to her in another room. She is doing at-home eLearning because of COVID-19. For the past few weeks, I’ve watched as my friends post pictures of their kids’ first day
Deborah Moran Featured as Top Realtor in My Sanford Magazine
Wherever you look in Sanford,you have new neighbors you can call friends. The real estate market here is booming. Our beloved historic district has become a prime area to not only visit for the day, but to live in forever. Buyers from all around the world can’t help but be attracted to our charming brick roads and picturesque architecture, scenic riverwalk and marina, bustling breweries, cultural restaurants, and small-town vibes. Houses are hitting the market and being put under contract on the same
Tips to Help Seniors Lower Their Fall Risk
Each year 3 million older adults seek treatment at the hospital after a fall. More than 27,000 of them will die as a result of their fall injuries, and many more will experience disabilities that can lead to a loss of independence. Falls are a major health problem according to the CDC. And while the effects of a fall can be life-changing and life-threatening for seniors, the fear of falling is a serious threat. Sometimes, after a fall or being told by their doctor they are at high risk of falling,
Robotic Lawn Mowing Arrives in Orlando
High-tech Mowbot franchise brings future of lawn maintenance to Central Florida June 22, 2020 // Franchising.com // ORLANDO, Fla. - Mowbot, the nation’s premier robotic lawnmowing service, is opening a new location this June, Mowbot of Orlando. Local business owner Tony Smith is partnering with Mowbot, a new, cutting-edge national franchise, and Husqvarna, the world’s leader in outdoor power products, to bring robotic lawnmowers to lawn-loving businesses and homeowners in central Florida. The small bot,
Seminole Cares Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (August 25, 2020)— The State of Florida has allocated $82 million to Seminole County in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds, which are intended to address the economic consequences due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Seminole County Board of County Commissioners has approved Seminole CARES, a comprehensive relief package supporting County businesses, residents, not-for-profits, and local government entities. Seminole CARES proposes 100% of the initial
SERVPRO of North Seminole and West Volusia Counties Welcomes New Members To The Team!
SERVPRO of North Seminole and West Volusia Counties has announced the following new hires to their Sanford, Florida office. Randy Joseph, Rebuild Manager Randy Joseph has been hired to oversee the new Rebuild Division which focuses on reconstructing a property back to its original condition before any water, fire, or mold damage occurred. Randy is a U.S. Army veteran, and as the Rebuild Division Manager, Randy has established and continues to successfully carry out SERVPRO of North Seminole and West
RB Advisory: Supporting Black-owned Businesses in Central Florida
(Winter Park, FL, August 2020) This month, as we celebrate Black-Owned Businesses, RB Advisory is grateful for the opportunity to service the risk management and cyber compliance needs for companies near and far. We are a proud, Black-owned business, and encourage our clients and friends alike to support the community's other black-owned establishments to stimulate their growth and employ many along the way! It is important for leaders of all colors, creeds and cultures to give back in the way of positive
The Jewish Pavilion Launches Pavilion Pathways and On-line Silent Auction
The Jewish Pavilion seeks to enhance the lives of our elders, of all faiths, in long term care. They provide festive holiday programs and arrange friendly visits so that our aged know that they are not forgotten by the community. Their Orlando Senior Help Desk is their free resource that offers information and referrals to seniors and their family members (407)--678-9363. Like many non-profits, the Jewish Pavilion depends on its fundraising events for 1/3 of its budget, and these events have
“Fore Our Kids” Golf Tournament Will Be Held Oct. 23
WHAT: On Fri., Oct. 23, golfers will tee off in the “Fore Our Kids” tournament to raise money for Embrace Families. The event will support critical services that provide assistance to strengthen families and prevent child abuse. Last year, Embrace Families delivered services to over 9,500 children in Central Florida. Some are in foster care; all are victims of, survivors of, or at risk of abuse or neglect. Funds raised from this event will be used to ensure safety, provide permanency and maintain the
Addition Financial Named a Sponsor of South Orlando Soccer Club
Lake Mary, Fla. (August 24, 2020) – South Orlando Soccer Club has announced Addition Financial as their new kit (uniform) sponsor for their competitive teams. The partnership, which runs from Fall 2020 through Spring 2022, aligns two local organizations that share similar core values. “At Addition Financial, we believe in the profound impact that education has on our community, and sports are a powerful extension of that. We are proud to partner with the South Orlando Soccer Club and to be a sponsor of
On The + Side: Snail Mail, Outdoor Art and Haunted Roads
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about augmented reality art installations, healthy brownie recipes, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
COVID-19 Hits Hardest for Parents with Kids. Here’s How to Help.
Recently, a single mom – let’s call her “Rachel” – reached out, seeking urgent rent assistance. She never thought she would have to do that … until the coronavirus hit. Rachel had a stable job at the start of the pandemic. Unlike many Floridians, she was able to work remotely when offices closed. But Rachel also had a toddler at home, and she didn’t have anyone to help with childcare when she was on business calls. When her boss decided that the background noise was too disruptive, Rachel was let
SCSO Investigates Shooting Incident That Left One Dead, One Injured
Seminole Co. (Aug. 24, 2020) –The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit is currently investigating a shooting incident that occurred overnight at 303 Teakwood Lane in unincorporated Altamonte Springs.At approximately 11:30 p.m., deputies responded to the area in reference to a shooting with injuries. Upon arrival, they discovered two males had been shot. One of the victims, identified as Kyle Cornelius Scott, 33, of Longwood, died at the scene. The other victim was transported to a local
Trini Ward Joins Rise and Shine
Rise and Shine CF announces an expansion to our team. Meet Trinealiea Ward, our new social media strategist. Trini has a passion for entrepreneurship and a love for art and creativity. She has finally found a way to combine the two and help businesses create an online presence. Her journey started years ago as a virtual assistant and working with an international marketing strategist, where she not only learned a great deal about social media marketing and the importance of businesses having an engaging
Orlando Health Introduces New Robotic-Assisted Lung Biopsy Technology
New Robot Helps Diagnose Lung Cancer Earlier Orlando, FL. (August 13, 2020) – Patients at Orlando Health are the first in central Florida to have access to exciting, new technology in the fight against lung cancer. Orlando Health is the first in the area to feature Ion by Intuitive, a new lung biopsy system that helps physicians reach further into the lungs to detect lesions and obtain tissue samples. The minimally-invasive technology promises to help oncologists diagnose lung cancer earlier, thus
TaxLeaf Orlando is Growing!
TaxLeaf Orlando is pleased to announce a new edition to its team – Marcio Vaz. Marcio will be our new Field Sales Representative focusing his efforts in Orange, Osceola, and Polk Counties. “I am excited to have Marcio on our TaxLeaf team. His go-getter attitude, willingness to meet new people, and background with the international community will be a huge plus for our organization”, said TaxLeaf Orlando Owner, Rahil Noor. “I expect Marcio to help our company exponentially increase our client base
Seminole Cares Small Business Grant Portal Opened
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (August 20, 2020)—As of 7:15a.m. today, more than 2,370 Seminole County businesses have accessed the Seminole CARES Small Business Grant Application portal, of which 1,041 have submitted completed applications and 1,332 applications are saved and in-progress. Applicants who submit a complete application receive a confirmation email shortly thereafter. Applicants who have completed the application process and submitted all required documents but did not receive a confirmation email,
Why Experience Matters Now More Than Ever
We're living in a world today where consumers are facing difficult choices. The normal day to day decisions about a service or product have been replaced with looming concerns about COVID-19, the economy and the future. During this time, companies that focus on experience are standing out and continuing to engage, amid the chaos. Experience matters more than ever and can differentiate you from the competition, gaining coveted business even in our current environment. We are really excited about the
Your Age-By-Age Guide to Vaccinations
Vaccines contain dead or weakened antigens of various diseases. Even this tiny amount prompts your body to develop antibodies that fight disease. The cells remain in your body to combat infection should you come in contact with the germ again in your lifetime. What many don’t realize is that the benefits of being vaccinated can last a lifetime. They’re a key component of good health for all ages, protecting you and those around you by limiting — or in some cases stopping — the spread of very serious
John E. Polk Correctional Facility Enacting Measures to Minimize Exposure in New COVID-19 Cases
Seminole Co. Fla., (August 19, 2020) – The John E. Polk Correctional Facility in Sanford is implementing additional procedures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 after experiencing an increase in positive cases.Recently, a staff member at the JEPCF reported not feeling well, later testing positive for the virus. Out of an abundance of caution, the JEPCF staff tested all 45 inmates in the pod where the staff member worked. Of the 45 tests, 42 results have been returned positive. The majority of the
UCF Forum: Pets Are Not People
My grandchild is a dog. She is a 1½-year-old Boston Terrier named Margo. My son tells Margo how much he loves her, that she's his baby, that she's the youngest in our family. He praises Margo when she's good, admonishes her when she's bad, sends her to timeout when she's incorrigible. She is, in most every way, his child. To Margo, I'm Grandpa and my wife is Grandma. Neither of my adult children have children. Their reasoning is the same as many in their generation: the expense, the responsibility, the
Fall Term at Seminole State Brings Updates and Opportunities
SANFORD, Fla. (Aug. 19, 2020) – When Seminole State College of Florida’s 2020-21 academic year begins Aug. 24, most courses will be offered in online or remote format with a limited number offered in person on the College’s four campuses. That’s just one of many adjustments the coronavirus pandemic has brought. While change and flexibility have been hallmarks of this period, Seminole State’s commitment to maintain the health and safety of its community while continuing to support students in reaching their
Seminole Science Charter - First day of school photo & reopening guidelines
Seminole Science Charter School faculty and staff were thrilled to welcome students back to school this month under Seminole County Public Schools guidelines. A new year means fresh new textbooks, new teachers, new learning goals and new friends. May it be all you hope it will be! Seminole Science Charter School will offer students a choice of face-to-face Traditional Learning on school campus or Seminole Science Innovative Learning from their homes. SSCS will be open to students five days per week for
This School Year, It’s Okay To Take It Easy
Work. Stress. Socially distant schooling. It’s never easy being a parent, but this fall brings more challenges than most – and right now, one of the toughest challenges of all is helping our kids feel safe in an uncertain world. As the school year begins, here are some ideas designed to reduce the pressure – for yourself and your kids: Create a routine. Adding structure to the day is one of the best ways to feel “normal” –even when the world around us isn’t. For kids who feel anxious, it’s reassuring
Seminole County Museum Presents: Rightfully Hers
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (August 18, 2020) - From August 18th to September 1st, 2020, the Museum of Seminole County History will host a new pop-up exhibition from the National Archives, Rightfully Hers, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Lake Mary resident Rachel Plakon coordinated with the National Archives and the Museum of Seminole County History to bring the exhibit to Seminole County. Plakon serves on the Florida Commission on the Status of Women and was
Central Florida Residents Recognized For Helping Children And Families In Foster Care
Florida Coalition for Children Foundation Honors IndividualsNominated by Embrace Families ORLANDO, Fla. (Aug. 18, 2020) – Central Floridians Diane DeMark and Mike Bryant recently earned statewide recognition for their outstanding commitment to helping families in foster care. Embrace Families, the region’s lead agency overseeing child welfare, nominated DeMark and Bryant for the Florida Coalition for Children Foundation’s George Sheldon Lifetime Achievement and Champion for Children awards, respectively.
On The + Side: Podcasts, Blockbuster and Palonka
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about the perfect app to choose your next hiking adventure, virtual extracurriculars offered by SeaWorld and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Rinehart Surgery Center Opens in Lake Mary
Adds New Offering to Orlando Health Medical Pavilion Orlando, FL (August 13, 2020) – The Rinehart Surgery Center, an affiliate of Orlando Health, is now open in Lake Mary following a ribbon-cutting earlier today for the new facility. With approximately 10,000 square feet of space, the Rinehart Surgery Center is located on the first floor of the Orlando Health Medical Pavilion – Lake Mary. It will feature three state-of-the-art operating rooms and 12 pre-op/recovery beds for patients. The
Goodwill Hosts Free August Webinar Series For Job Seekers
Online Resource Is an Extension of Nonprofit’s Job Connection Services ORLANDO, Fla. (August 14, 2020) – Throughout the month of August, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida will host a free webinar series for local job seekers. An extension of the nonprofit’s job connection services, the virtual presentations will provide assistance with interview preparation, employment search techniques, exploring career changes and networking. “With more than 3.16 million people in Florida applying for
Experience First Launches IGNITE X ™ to Create a Unique Opportunity for Students to Drive Positive Change in Orlando
Experience First announced a new social impact project today that is bringing big changes to Orlando. The company created IGNITE X ™ to merge business with community interests, offering students the opportunity to get hands-on professional experience while giving back. Experience First is an innovative, action-oriented experience agency that helps companies develop lasting brand loyalty among clients and employees. "We believe in an inside out process," says CEO, Kimberly Kapes. "You have to start with
Preparing Like Never Before for Hurricane Season
One thing that won’t be delayed or canceled by the global coronavirus pandemic: hurricane season. Florida Power & Light Company always prepares for hurricane season and urges its customers to do the same. This year, preparation is more important than ever as hurricane season arrives amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the early days of the crisis, FPL has implemented a robust pandemic plan that has allowed it to continue to safely deliver the reliable, affordable energy its customers expect. As hurricane
Social Story: Wearing a Face Mask at School
Like you, Nemours Children’s Health has spent a lot of time over these past months thinking about how best to keep the children in our communities safe and comforted through the pandemic. As children are returning to school, we know that many families are concerned about their young children being able to tolerate wearing a mask all day at school. To help make it easier for kids to comply with this and other important safety measures, we’ve created a social story about masking at school. The story was
Tech Rage IT Celebrates Five Years Of Preventing Tech Rage
UCF Business Incubation client reaches milestone with $1.5 million in total life sales Winter Springs, Fla., August 13, 2020 – A business’ success or failure can often be determined within the first couple of years. For Winter Springs-based Tech Rage IT, it’s truly been a success. The company recently celebrated its five-year anniversary. Over those years, the company has surpassed more than $1.5 million in combined revenue and has grown from the two founding partners to eight employees and
Experience L.E.A.D: Journey to Self
Do you feel better equipped to handle the daily issues, the goal setting, the performance metrics, the growth and development opportunities at work more than at home? Do you feel like you have more control of your professional life than your personal life? What if you had the opportunity to use the same improvement process system that has made businesses like Toyota, Motorola and Amazon the success they are today? What if this system were to solve your defects and eliminate areas of waste in your life?
Seminole State Awarded ACCT 2020 Southern Region Equity Award
SANFORD, Fla. (Aug. 12, 2020) - The Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) has awarded Seminole State College of Florida with the 2020 Southern Region Equity Award. The ACCT’s Regional Awards recognize the tremendous contributions made by community colleges and their leaders to meet the needs of their communities.The Equity Award recognizes exemplary commitment by a governing board and president of an ACCT member two-year postsecondary institution to achieve fairness in the college’s education
Wharton-Smith Hires Bert Fonseca as Central Florida Commercial Project Executive
August 6, 2020-Sanford, FL -Wharton-Smith Construction Group announced today the hire of Bert Fonseca as a Project Executive for their Central Florida Commercial Operation at their Corporate Headquarters in Sanford, FL. Mr. Fonseca brings with him more than 28 years of construction experience and a strong reputation for successfully delivering multi-million-dollar higher education, K-12 education, commercial, airport, healthcare and entertainment projects. Prior to joining Wharton-Smith, Fonseca worked
On The + Side: Hiking Trails, Immune Boosters and Retirement
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about National Black Business Month, underrated hiking trails in Central Florida, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
A Message From Dr. André Hebra: NCH and Local Children’s Hospitals Join on Back to School Guidance
As our children and families prepare for the upcoming school year amid the current state of COVID-19, infectious disease experts from all three local children’s hospitals in Central Florida joined forces to assemble consistent information and resources needed to support our pediatric providers. Our Nemours infectious disease professionals, Dr. Kenneth Alexander and Dr. Adriana Cadilla collaborated with their peers from AdventHealth for Children and Orlando Health-Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital to
iHeartMedia/Orlando Highlights Financial Services Advertisers On 'Financial Fix' Website
iHEARTMEDIA/ORLANDO has unveiled a financial resource website, "Financial Fix," featuring financial business advertisers. The site is being promoted on the cluster's stations, websites, and social media. “‘Financial Fix’ will be an important resource for our community,” said iHEART's CHIANNA RAY. “Many people do not know where to start when it comes to unexpected financial situations such as refinancing, retirement funds withdrawal, grants qualifications and more. This hub will be a great place for
Seeking Laptop Donations for SCPS Students in Need
Do you have old laptops that you don't use any more at home or your business? The Foundation for SCPS is seeking laptop donations that can be loaned to low-income households who've chosen Seminole Connect or Seminole County Virtual School. Laptops can be dropped off at the Educational Support Center Monday through Friday. http://foundationscps.org/foundation-news/seeking-laptop-donations-for-scps-students-in-need/ Participate in a School Supply Drive The Summer School Supply Drive for
Back to School or Not, It’s Time to Budget
August is here, and Florida schools are preparing to welcome students back into classrooms while some families are preparing to continue learning from home. But even as stores market back-to-school deals – on items from whiteboard markers to webcams – things certainly are not back to normal. Nearly 9 in 10 Americans experienced financial stress this past spring, according to a survey from the National Endowment for Financial Education – and while there are some promising signs for the economy, recovery
Welcome the Seminole County Chamber's New Members!
With the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been a while since we have promoted our new members. We’re extremely grateful for the companies who invested in the chamber, looking for the resources and connections we provide. Let’s take a moment to thank the following members who referred new members to our chamber the past few months. Thank you to the following members for your referrals: John Fairfull, Simplicity.OnlineMichael Eastham, Fellowship FinancialYesha Patel, Platinium Signs & DesignsZaheer Datoo,
Bitman O’Brien & Morat Makes Top 100 Best Companies List
The annual Best Companies To Work For In Florida list is featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine. One hundred companies are ranked in small, medium and large employer categories.To participate, companies or government entities employ at least 15 workers in Florida and have been in operation at least one year. Companies underwent an evaluation of their workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The process also included a survey to measure employee satisfaction. The
New Home for Premium Content
Orlando, FL – August 6, 2020 – Sometimes you want to attend an online class but the timing doesn’t fit your schedule. That’s why The Countess Group has created a way to watch its premium content whenever you want on an exclusive website. And for a limited time, you can experience a sample of one of the company’s most popular classes, Creating Facebook Ads, for just $1. “I know how tough it can be to learn on someone else’s schedule,” said Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group.
New Offerings At Seminole State Support Florida’s Workforce Priorities
SANFORD, Fla. (Aug. 5, 2020) - Focusing on in-demand and essential areas, Seminole State College of Florida sets students up for success through new offerings this fall to reflect the changing priorities and goals of Floridians, including upskilling and reskilling for jobs of the future. Fall Term classes start Monday, Aug. 24, with 12-Week Session starting Sept. 14. Seminole State is offering online or remote classes for Fall with limited face-to-face classes for labs, public safety and other hands-on
ACE Human Resources Announces Recruitment of Home Inspectors
[Winter Springs, FL]: ACE Human Resources published two job postings this week, recruiting multiple Florida-licensed home inspectors for their client. The details of the positions are located on the Seminole County Chamber website under Job Postings. ACE Human Resources provides recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding services for small businesses under 50 employees. The services are offered to assist managers with the daunting and cumbersome tasks involved with the hiring process. Ranging
Seminole State Receives Duke Energy Grant For Workforce Development
Seminole State College of Florida has received a $10,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to empower communities in Central Florida by a workforce jumpstart initiative. The initiative will assist adult education students who will be concurrently enrolled in select non-credit workforce certificate programs. The School of Academic Foundations and workforce development departments have partnered to address the financial, academic and career readiness gaps experienced by students working to obtain their
UCF Forum: A Perspective on Our Most Valuable Natural Resource
By Brenda S. ThompsonUCF Forum columnist What are America's most valuable natural resources and where can they be found? These questions are as important today as they have ever been. Natural resources have essential life-sustaining and economic value. Most reference sources identify examples of them as minerals, water, forests, fertile land, coal and even diamonds, gold and silver. Natural resources benefit all of us and, without a doubt, we know how precious they are. That is why care must be taken to
On The + Side: Sharks and Summer Serenades
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about next week’s Shark Week lineup, recipes for National Peach Month, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Bitman’s Point of View: Online Notarizations A New And Efficient Way To Close Real Estate Deals
This year, the State of Florida approved a law allowing Florida notaries to perform remote online notarizations. With the global pandemic stifling many legal processes including, closing in-bank services and real estate offices, the state’s timing may seem clairvoyant. The new law helps to eliminate many of the current difficulties closing real estate transactions, as well as notarizing other legally binding documents. Not only is efficient technology being integrated into this important step in the
Seminole County Chamber Launches Support Seminole to Spur Economy
More than 60 local businesses participating with more than $2,000 in prizes for consumers Lake Mary, Fla. (August 3, 2020) – Starting today, consumers in Seminole County have an opportunity to not only show their support for local businesses, but also win daily prizes. Support Seminole kicks off with more than 60 local businesses participating, encouraging people throughout our region to utilize those businesses. “Our local businesses need our support today more than ever as we continue to move
Seminole County Attorney: Leavitt v. Seminole County
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (JULY 30, 2020)- The Seminole County Attorney's Office issued the following statement regarding Leavitt v. Seminole County case and the Court’s Order: In a lawsuit recently filed against Seminole County by David Leavitt in the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court in Seminole County, the plaintiff was seeking the Court to enjoin Seminole County from enforcing the limited mask/facial covering requirement of a Seminole County Executive Order that was issued to protect the health of the
Happy Birthday to Kiddie Academy of Sanford-Heathrow!
Local business owners Ted and Hilda Cockram celebrated the one-year anniversary of Kiddie Academy of Sanford-Heathrow on July 15th and held a week-long celebration with teachers and enrolled families to commemorate the milestone. "It’s been a year like no other and we are so proud of everything we’ve accomplished despite the challenges! We're looking forward to continue serving our community for years to come with an awesome team beside us." The 10,000-square-foot educational child care center located
Don’t Forget Preventative Care
Most seniors have been taking health precautions these days. Handwashing, wearing a mask when advised to do so, and practicing social distancing help protect us from exposure to COVID-19. But this is no time to lose sight of our overall health. Healthcare providers report that many patients are failing to come in for preventative care. This could put them at risk for a host of health conditions-including more serious effects from COVID-19. Today, most healthcare facilities are ready and prepared to
Summer Skin Care and Safety in a Socially Distant, Outdoor World
With stay-at-home orders being lifted, you may be eager to get outside, especially as we take advantage of summertime. But before you head out for a jog in the sun or a lazy afternoon by the pool, remember that your health needs to remain a top priority. Some of the best parts of summer — like picnics, pool parties and sports outings — present new challenges in the wake of the pandemic. Healthy practices such as social distancing, washing our hands and wearing masks in public may impact our outdoor fun
The Circus Is Coming to Town
Before the circus arrives in town, the owners evaluate the demographics of the community to see if there are enough potential customers who are interested in seeing the circus. This is market research. The owners determine profitability by how much the average person may be willing to pay to see the show compared to how much it will cost to run the circus. This is pricing. The owners of the circus have established policies and procedures which outline the order and methods by which the organization
UCF Forum: Some Don’t Realize What a Profound Gift of Time This Pandemic Is
By Peter TelepUCF Forum columnist Which would make you happier: more time or more money? Most people want both and say they’d be happier if they had both. However, most of us spend the majority of our time chasing money and sacrificing our experiences and relationships in the quest for financial security. Our consumer-driven economy supports this notion that more money equals more happiness. Consequently, you need to work more overtime, make more money, and buy more stuff to be happy, right? Suddenly, a
Free Marketing Audits
Get Yours at TheCountessGroup.com before August 15 Orlando, FL – July 29, 2020 – Marketing is a complex animal. What may have worked before may not work now. Simply, it’s easy to fall behind. As a service to Seminole County Chamber members, The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and communications consultancy, is offering free marketing audit. The purpose of the audit is to help members understand how to get better results from their marketing efforts. Members can get
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Duke Energy Florida is awarding $655,000 workforce development and education grants
Duke Energy Florida is awarding $655,000 in grants to 19 workforce development and education programs as the region tackles economic disruptions from the coronavirus pandemic.The grants support education and training programs that address the most pressing skills gaps in communities served by Duke Energy Florida, as well as programs to cultivate the energy sector’s future workforce. Greater Orlando areaLake-Sumter State College Foundation – Increasing Access to Energy Technology Programs and Careers
Seminole County FL - JULY 29 COVID-19 AND STORM UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 29, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 6,272 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 2,995 confirmed cases are currently active; there have been 71 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 2:00PM PRESS CONFERENCE Join Seminole County Chairman Jay Zembower, Seminole
Perfect Game Partnership Projected to Nearly Double Hotel Room Night Generation
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL. (July 28, 2020) – Today, the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to finalize an agreement making Perfect Game, Inc. an anchor event organizer at the Boombah Sports Complex. Perfect Game, an Iowa based corporation, is the largest amateur baseball scouting and event service in the world, hosting amateur and youth baseball tournaments all over the country. This performance-based agreement, which would commence in January 2021, provides Perfect Game mutually
SCPS Increases AP Pass Rate For 2019-2020
(SANFORD, FL) – Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce that the number of SCPS Seniors who scored 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam at any point during high school increased by 2% (from 41.8% to 43.9%). The percent of exams with scores of 3 or higher increased 4% (from 62% to 66%). The district percent passed average met or exceeded the state percent average on 29 out of 38 AP exams. In addition, the district percent passed average met or exceeded the global percent passed average on
Back 2 School Love for Teachers
Postnet Altamonte is offering all teachers, including home-school parents, low price copies for all of the 2020/2021 school year. 6-cent B&W and 19-cent color copies. Please let your teachers know! Additionally, PostNet will be offering Back 2 School discounts on other printing for August, September, and October.
On The + Side: Blankets, Zodiac Signs and Meerkats
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how to form healthy habits based on your Zodiac sign, livestream giraffe feedings, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
4 Ways Parents Can Encourage Summer Reading
With students on vacation, many will be tempted to focus all their time on fun – at the expense of those hard-earned reading skills they’ve gained throughout the school year. Parents who want their kids to maintain these critical skills should encourage reading between activities like swimming, TV and playing with friends. Here are a few tips to seamlessly build reading into your family’s summer schedule. 1. Check out your local library The library is a fantastic resource for books, eBooks and even
Are You Boring Your Virtual Audience?
Are you boring your listeners? In a virtual presentation, you may not see your audience, but you can tell if they have tuned you out. Do your questions go unanswered? Are there few comments in the chat box? Are you doing all the talking—even when you unmute your participants? If you answered “yes” to those questions, you may be a “Novocain speaker”. This means, you are knocking out your audience quicker than a dentist numbs your gums before filling a cavity. If your slides are text-heavy and you rely
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Two Orlando Health Hospitals Named Best Places to Work
Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and South Seminole Hospital Earn Award Orlando, FL (July 20, 2020) – Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital have been named by Modern Healthcare to the 2020 Best Places to Work in Healthcare. The complete list of this year’s winners, in alphabetical order, is available at ModernHealthcare.com/bestplaceslist. Modern Healthcare will publish a special supplement featuring a ranked list of all the winners along with the October 12
ACE Human Resources Signs Newest Client, Proficiency Background Services
Last week, ACE Human Resources signed their newest client Proficiency Background Services with their Hot Deal for “Ongoing HR Support Services”. Proficiency Background Services provides businesses with pre-employment and ongoing criminal background checks, Level 2 fingerprinting, motor vehicle reports, civil court records and a variety of other screening services. Proficiency Background Services currently has an office location in Orlando, FL with one employee and is planning on opening additional office
Celebrating Life’s Special Moments Safely While Social Distancing
Spending most of your time away from others can feel strange. But that doesn’t mean you have to stop having the celebrations that make life joyous and fulfilling. Many of our most cherished traditions have persevered through time. They have adapted and taken on new life amid difficulties. Today, with added stress and social distancing, we’re once again adapting our celebrations to the times. We’re finding new ways to celebrate one another and forging innovative connections between loved ones (and
When “Back to School” Isn’t Back to Normal
Parenting is never easy, but 2020 has been especially taxing. Over the past few months, we’ve learned to navigate closed classrooms, virtual learning, lockdowns, and medical precautions – and, not least of all, the herculean feat of keeping kids entertained at home. But with Florida schools slated to open in the fall, parents face a new dilemma: stick with virtual learning, or send kids back to class? With so many complicating factors – work, health, education, social development, emotional wellness
UCF Forum: Each Human Being is Precious
By Syretta Spears UCF Forum columnist Many have taken offense to the slogan Black Lives Matter. The rebuttal is often that All Lives Matter. They absolutely should all matter, but this reply misses the point: A population of Americans – Black Americans – is in danger due to discrimination and violence. While the intention of the phrase, All Lives Matter, may be to convey a sense of unification and equality, the phrase can be insensitive and divisive as it lessens the focus of real discrimination and
Timely Marketing Info At Your Fingertips
New Curated Content Available Daily at TheCountessGroup.com Orlando, FL – July 22, 2020 – “I know how hard it is to stay up-to-date when you’re trying to run your business,” Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group often says. “That’s why we’ve added a daily dose of information you can use to help you run your business.” With so many businesses struggling to stay focused and keep things moving in the right direction, The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and
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Duke Energy Florida Plans Gradual Return To Standard Business Operations While Extending Assistance
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida will continue assisting customers experiencing economic hardship from the COVID-19 pandemic as the company begins returning to standard billing and payment practices in mid-August. However, the earliest disconnections for non-payment under regular credit and notice timelines will not begin until Sept. 1 for customers. In March, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company immediately launched a sweeping series of steps to help customers, including
Avon's Response to Covid-19
Do you fall into one or more of these categories: Baby Boomer, 55+, do you have a chronic illness, or are you fearful of the Covid-19? My hope (prayer) is that if you do, you are maintaining Social Distancing and wear a mask on leaving your home. Regardless of the “opening up of Florida” and the opening up of schools, we still need to be ultra-cautious. Much of what I have been doing for 16 years has not changed. I deliver products to doorsteps with little if any personal contact, wearing my
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[Estate Planning] Free Living Wills for Teachers
Orlando, Florida: The Orlando Law Group would like to honor teachers’ commitment to bettering education in Central Florida with an offer for a free Living Will, which allows people to make their own decisions about life support and other life saving measures to help their families and to make sure their wishes are followed. The Orlando Law Group is also offering substantial discounts for school employees on our COMPLETE WILL PACKAGES. The benefits to having a will include: Letting you decide how your
Do you suffer from Zoom Fatigue?
What does your ‘Zoom schedule’ look like? Zoom meetings for your department, your board meetings, committee meetings, those impromptu project meetings, your volunteer organizations meetings and let’s not forget those social zoom meetings after work. Like most, you are properly feeling a mental fatigue that erupts when you see your calendar and say…not another zoom call. Since we have been working remotely and under quarantine, what better way to stay connected... than through zoom. For some, it is an old
On The + Side: Art Therapy, Beluga Whales and Metallica
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how Metallica is helping students build high-demand skills, what to know before choosing a hotel during the pandemic, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
You Could Save Hundreds, Maybe Thousands of Dollars!
Given our economic environment, this headline sounds great, right? With today’s tax laws and proper accounting and bookkeeping records, I can help you potentially realize this kind of savings for your business, too.Unfortunately, many are unsure the proper tax filing status for their business situation. Couple that with common mistakes made on business tax returns, and that’s money you are paying Uncle Sam instead of putting back into your business or in your pocket. Call me today for a free consultation
RB Advisory Makes The Grade: Listed In Top 12 Cyber And Risk Analytics Companies
(WINTER PARK, FL, July 2020): RB Advisory is proud to announce that we have been added to this esteemed list of cyber and risk analytic companies for July 2020. Together with our partners, WhiteHawk and CyberOne, we are penetrating the Federal contracting industries with our powerhouse approach to CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification). Maintaining a focus on what expertise is necessary for the client, our triple-threat approach helps maximize the client’s security and compliance. CMMC is a
iHeartMedia Launches The “SmartAudio Covid Recovery Program”
iHeartMedia’s SmartAudio COVID Recovery Program Introduces Three New Products To Help Advertisers Leverage iHeart’s Broadcast Radio Stations and Digital Platforms To Reach Their Consumers in a Post-COVID World iHeartMedia, the leading audio company in the U.S. and No. 1 commercial podcast publisher globally, today announced the “SmartAudio COVID Recovery Program,” a suite of three new innovative SmartAudio products that enable businesses to utilize iHeartMedia’s unparalleled data and scale to re-engage
Florida Blue again named a “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion”
Health insurer earns top score on Disability Equality Index for sixth timeJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, earned a score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index (DEI) survey for initiatives to support employees with mental health and caregiving programs while at the same time providing more than $1.5 million in charitable donations to programs that support people with disabilities.Top-scoring businesses are recognized as Best Places to Work for Disability
SCSO Communications Center Accreditation Assessment Team Invites Public Comment
Seminole Co. (July 17, 2020) – The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center is scheduled for a site-based assessment as part of a program to achieve reaccreditation by verifying it meets professional standards. Due to COVID-19, this assessment will be conducted remotely.Administered by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA® ), the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedures,
Tips to Keep Your Family Safe at the Theme Park
Social distancing isn’t something that most kids easily understand, especially at a theme park. It’s vitally important, though, for you and your family to stay 6 feet apart from others while experiencing the fun. Here’s what you should know before you go with tips to help kids feel prepared for a safe day at the park. Why Social Distancing Matters As communities begin to reopen, it’s still important to maintain proper social distancing. Staying at least 6 feet away from anyone outside your
Membership Has Its Benefits With Thousands Of Dollars In Discount Coupons
Sanford, Florida: Harry Parkhurst, president of The Cranefeather Society, announced the addition of a major member benefit. “While joining our Freedom Brigade offers the opportunity to add the power of many voices and votes to compel the cutting of taxes by 40%. As members they will enjoy thousands of dollars in discount coupons to help cut costs at a time when we need it most,” Harry explained. The Freedom Brigade was created to gather voices and votes in a 100 million-member organization. Its purpose
Seminole County FL - JULY 15 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 15, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 2:00PM PRESS CONFERENCE Join Seminole County Chairman Jay Zembower, Seminole State College President Dr. Georgia Lorenz, and Seminole County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin for a press conference regarding COVID-19
The Countess Group’s VIP Club Reaches 1,800 Member Milestone
Businesses and Non-profits Receive Up To $2,000 in Free Marketing Help Orlando, FL – July 15, 2020 – With its members understanding the value of free email marketing expert help, The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and communications consultancy, announced today that over its lifetime, its VIP Club membership has blossomed to over 1,800 businesses and non-profit organizations. The Countess Group’s VIP Club enables its members to receive up to $2,000 in free services to
SCPS 2020-21 Reopening Plan & Educational Options
Dear SCPS Families, The School Board has finalized our School Reopening Plan and Student Options for the 2020-2021 School Year. Additionally, the Board has voted to delay the start of the 2020-2021 School Year to Monday, August 17, 2020. Please view this important message from Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin, click here. To assist in making your decision, please see the Student Learning Options & Decision Tree flyers
Registration Closes Soon for the Nemours School Health Conference
School nurses in Florida are invited to attend our virtual School Health Conference, being held Thursday, July 30. This program for school nurses and school health professionals provides 4 CE hours and is free of charge. Learn how to apply best practices in school health, as taught by leading health professionals. Program Schedule: 8:00 a.m. Mental Health, Lisa Spector, MD 9:15 a.m. Food Allergies, Jordan Smallwood, MD. 10:00 a.m. Break 10:15 a.m. Emerging
ACE Human Resources Announces New Contract for Returning Client Pro Inspect Solutions
Last month, ACE Human Resources delivered their customized “Independent Contractor Onboarding Toolkit” for Pro Inspect Solutions. Pro Inspect Solutions is a Florida licensed home inspection company including ancillary inspections in Wind Mitigation, IAC2 Mold and Moisture Intrusion. Currently the CEO Quintavius Bell is the sole inspector of the company with one additional employee, his Administrative Assistant. Quintavius has decided to grow his business by hiring other home inspectors as independent
IDShield Creates First Comprehensive Solution for Consumer Online Privacy and Protection, Offering Reputation Management to Clean Up Social Media Accounts, Profiles and Content
ADA, Okla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IDShield, a leading provider of identity theft protection, privacy and reputation monitoring, announced today that it has expanded its suite of product offerings to include proactive reputation management. This feature allows consumers to quickly find and review old social media accounts, delete potentially offensive online content and, ultimately, safeguard their personal reputations. To support its new reputation management solution, IDShield is partnering with
Addition Financial Sponsors CareerSource Central Florida Summer Youth Program
Lake Mary, Fla. (July 13, 2020) – To support local teenagers as they pursue summer internships and professional skills training, Addition Financial has been named the Platinum Sponsor of the CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) Summer Youth Program through December 2021. The Summer Youth Program is a workforce development program for youth between the ages of 16 and 19 designed to fuel young adult’s career opportunities and educational growth potential. It serves as a unique program that helps young adults
On The + Side: Live Music, Face Masks and Healthy Recipes
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about UCF face masks, socially distanced music events, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
How to Earn (and Save) on a No-Income Budget
If you’re out of work right now, you aren’t alone. Millions of Americans have had their lives and livelihoods impacted by COVID-19. But just because you don’t have an active income doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from a budget: In fact, it’s even more important to have a financial game plan in place as you get back on your feet. Traditional budgeting dictates that you should spend no more than half your income on necessary expenses. But what do you do when that income is zero? Of course, you still need to
Stacy Luna Featured as a 2020 Five Star Mortgage Professional in Orlando Sentinel
Make your way to newsstands to see STACY LUNA featured as a 2020 Five Star Mortgage Professional in the Sunday, July 19 2020 issue of the Orlando Sentinel. STACY is one of a small percentage of professionals in the Orlando area to receive this prestigious award recognizing excellence in client satisfaction. STACY can be found in the Orlando Sentinel and also online on FiveStarProfessional.com. Click through to STACY's social post here to learn more about STACY and share in their
Stacy Luna & Atlantic Bay Help you save up to $1000 with AB Works for all Chamber Members
Maitland, FL – Atlantic Bay Works offers all Chamber members up to $1000 off closing cost when financing a purchase or refinance through Stacy Luna. Both Atlantic Bay and Stacy Luna have been in the mortgage industry providing home financing for over 23 years. As a direct lender, Atlantic Bay offers a multitude of lending products including, FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA, JUMBO. While controlling the underwriting process in house, Atlantic Bay has the unique ability to provide a high level of service
Entrepreneurs Wanted: Apply Now for Walmart’s 7th Annual Open Call for U.S.-Manufactured Products
ORLANDO, Fla., July 10, 2020 – The application process for Walmart’s seventh annual Open Call is open and the company invites entrepreneurs dreaming of landing their U.S.-manufactured products on Walmart shelves to apply for the opportunity to meet with Walmart buyers on October 1, 2020 via virtual pitch meetings. The deadline to apply to participate in this year's Open Call for U.S.-manufactured products is August 10. The application and additional information about the event are available
Lyman High School CTE Building Groundbreaking
(LONGWOOD, FL) Lyman High School will host a groundbreaking ceremony for their new CTE (Career & Technical Education) Building. The groundbreaking will take place on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. behind Building #4 at Lyman High School located at 865 S. Ronald Reagan Blvd., Longwood, FL 32750. The CTE Building Project is $7,800,000 and is being funded through the voters approved Sales Tax. Construction for the new CTE Building is planned to be completed prior to the start of the 2021/22 school year.
UCF Forum: A Long Walk and the Kindness of Strangers
By Katie PhilpUCF Forum columnistI worked a few years ago in a rural region of Kenya, supporting environmental educators in a small but ecologically important rain forest. Once, after a weekend in a neighboring town visiting friends, I stepped off the bus as close as a paved road could get me to my home and prepared to hire a bicycle taxi to take me the rest of the way on the dirt road. I soon realized with dismay that a recent heavy rain had turned the road back to my village into a red ribbon of mud.I’d
The Sharing Center Launched #GivingIsEssential Initiative to Raise Critically Needed Funds for Families & Individuals in Need
LONGWOOD, FL, July 9, 2020 — Since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, The Sharing Center has remained open to serve every neighbor experiencing the burdens of poverty and personal hardships. It is imperative we continue providing essential resources to our community, especially during these extraordinary times. As the community heads back to work after the COVID shutdown and begins to put the pieces of their lives back together, The Sharing Center has continued to serve an increased number of
St. Petersburg City Council approves Bayfront Health land lease agreement with Orlando Health
St. Petersburg, FL (July 9, 2020) – Today, Orlando Health received approval from the St. Petersburg City Council on a 50-year agreement to lease the land on which Bayfront Health is located. City approval of the land lease was required in order for Orlando Health to move forward with its acquisition of the hospital. In June, the healthcare organization signed a definitive agreement with Community Health Systems (CHS) to purchase Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. “This is an exciting time for the St.
Tips to Calm Your Child’s Worries About Returning to School
This year, returning to school may look and feel a lot different. And while we may not know exactly how different school will be for kids and families, the usual mixed emotions about returning to school will undoubtedly be met with heightened concerns regarding protecting your family from COVID-19. To ease your minds, we’re here to support you with some general tips on preparing to return to school feeling more empowered as a family. Get Familiar Before School Starts An introduction to their new
Goodwill Hosts Free Webinar For Job Seekers On July 17
Webinar Series Is an Extension of Nonprofit’s Job Connection Services On Fri., July 17, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida’s Job Connection Center will host a free webinar for job seekers. The latest in a series of virtual presentations, it will focus on effective search techniques. Attendees will also receive advice for avoiding the most common job search mistakes. Interested participants can register by visitinghttps://bit.ly/3iHDolF. With more than 2.4 million people in
The Orlando Sanford International Airport Announces The Hiring of a New President
Sanford, FL- July 7, 2020—The Sanford Airport Authority Board of Directors voted to approve the contract for a new CEO and President of the airport. “After a 6-month long search the board has selected Tom Nolan, who joins us after leading the the Palm Springs International Airport in California for the past 13 years,” said Tom Green, Sanford Airport Authority Chairman. “We had a high quality group of exceptional candidates from across the country, a testament to both our Airport’s past successes and future
COVID - 19 Notice Of Work Session And Special School Board Meeting
The School Board of Seminole County will hold two meetings on Tuesday, July 14, 2020. The Board will meet at 8:30 a.m. for a Reopening Work Session and at 5:30 p.m. for a Special School Board meeting. In consideration of the current health and safety concerns for our community; the various emergency executive and administrative orders entered by Federal, State, and Local Governmental authorities; in order to continue to perform essential functions in a manner consistent with law and board policy; and to
Named a Five Star Professional again this year!
I am so honored to share that I have been named a Five Star Professional again this year for my Real Estate services. There will be an article about this printed in the Orlando Sentinel this Sunday, July 19. I am so excited to be given this designation. If you, or anyone you know is in need of real estate services, please let me know that you want that "Five Star Service" and I’ll give you a DISCOUNT or REBATE.
Spanish Language Radio Station Éxitos 96.5 to Launch in Orlando on Monday June 29
News and Talk Leader WDBO Now Available on AM580 and 107.3 FM ORLANDO, Fla. – Wednesday, June 24, 2020 – Cox Media Group announces it will launch Spanish language radio station Éxitos 96.5 FM on Monday June 29, 2020. The new radio station will serve the burgeoning Hispanic community in Central Florida and bring audiences a new, fresh choice for local music, entertainment and information. Éxitos 96.5 will feature hits from artists like Marc Anthony, Romeo Santos, Juan Luis Guerra and
Seminole County FL - JULY 7 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 7, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 3,517 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 2,570 confirmed cases are currently active; there have been 20 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 2:00PM PRESS CONFERENCE Join Chairman Jay Zembower, Emergency Manager Alan
Addition Financial Launches Valencia College Branded Debit Card
Lake Mary, Fla. (July 6, 2020) – To help students and alumni showcase their school pride, Addition Financial has unveiled a new co-branded Valencia College debit card. The card will be available in all Addition Financial branches and can be used anywhere VISA® is accepted. Named the Preferred Credit Union for Valencia College in 2018, Addition Financial offers a variety of specialized products and services for students, faculty and staff. In addition, the credit union partners with Valencia College to
Seminole Science Charter School Student Named State Merit Winner in 3M Young Scientist Challenge 202
Siddharth Kini, an eighth-grade student from Seminole Science Charter School, was named the State Merit Winner from Florida in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge 2020 for his “Gnomer Bot.” As the nation’s premier middle school science competition, Siddharth was one of 27 State Merit Winners to submit outstanding projects utilizing the power of STEM to improve the world. Winners were selected for their passion, innovation, and superb communication skills. Each State Merit Winner receives special recognition on
On The + Side: Wildflowers, Chocolate and Gratitude
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about free digital dance events, the magic of “mundane gratitude,” and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Seminole County Offers PPE and More for Small Businesses
Seminole County Economic Development has compiled a list of potential personal protective equipment distributors to assist businesses as they reopen. Also, we have reusable cloth masks, "I wear my mask for you" buttons and stickers, and social distancing floor decals available for small businesses (while supplies last). Simply call 407-665-0000 to request and we will deliver. And download your free poster here.
A Safer Home for Senior Independence
Where would you like to live as you grow older? Surveys of people 50 years old and up show that a large majority want to age in place, staying in their own homes even as their health needs change. They want to remain in the surroundings to which they are accustomed, in their established neighborhood with familiar shops and services. Through the years they have grown an informal support system of family, friends and neighbors. Home is where their roots are! But as the years pass, families
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St. Cloud Regional Medical Center joins Orlando Health
Facility is renamed Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Orlando, FL (July 1, 2020) – Effective July 1, 2020, Orlando Health has completed the acquisition of the 84-bed St. Cloud Regional Medical Center and its associated healthcare operations in St. Cloud, Florida from an affiliate of Community Health Systems. Orlando Health has held a 20 percent minority interest in the hospital for more than 15 years and with this transaction, the facility will now be referred to as Orlando Health St. Cloud
Are You Experiencing Developmental Moments?
Rise and Shine Consulting Firm asks that question to each employee, each leader and each individual. Are you experiencing developmental moments? Developmental moments are those bursts of insight, motivation and training where you can experience it and then immediate use it. It’s an opportunity for you and your team to learn a new concept, get motivated, learn a technique in a few short minutes that will help you during the day. An example of a developmental moment is, “The Rule of 5”. The Rule of 5
Girl Scouts of Citrus Virtual Camp
For the first time in over 49 years, Girl Scout’s camp Mah-Kah-Wee in Chuluota stands empty as girls remain safely at home. But, as Girl Scouts of Citrus (GSC) has demonstrated, the spirit of summer camp cannot be silenced. WFTV recently reported on how summer camp has gone virtual as GSC blazes a new path for girls to experience summertime traditions. GSC’s outdoor program staff showed great creativity as they quickly pivoted into developing virtual experiences that give girls the opportunity to
Easy-To-Use Website Builder Now Available
Seminole County, Fla. — July 1, 2020 – If your company doesn’t have a website, your prospects question your credibility as a business. That’s why The Countess Group now makes a free website builder available to its clients who start a Constant Contact subscription through The Countess Group. And free training is offered, too, so you get it right the first time. “So many businesses are fearful of the cost of hiring a designer to get a new website – or fear it’s too complicated to build one on
Seminole County FL - JULY 1 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 1, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 2,735 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 2,018 confirmed cases are currently active; there have been 17 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. SOCIAL DISTANCING AND FACIAL COVERING ORDER IN EFFECT TODAY Effective today,
Your AdventHealth News: Tips for Getting Toddlers to Wear Masks
If you’ve ever tried to persuade a willful toddler to wear sunglasses or a hat on a sunny day, you know how tricky it can be to get kids to do something they don’t want to. Convincing a young child to wear a face mask may feel like a similar struggle. But to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that nearly everyone ages 2 and older wear a face mask when they’re out in a public place, such as at the grocery store. But there are an few
Central Florida HCA Healthcare Hospitals Offer Hotline To Help Individuals And Families Find Health Insurance Coverage Amid Economic Impacts Of Covid-19
Orlando, FLA. – As Florida continues to experience a high unemployment rate amid the coronavirus pandemic, the loss of health insurance coverage is also a major concern of those who are unemployed. HCA Healthcare hospitals in Central Florida have made available a free insurance hotline to help individuals and families who have lost health insurance coverage find temporary coverage while they are unemployed. The Health Coverage Hotline is available to anyone needing assistance and is live Monday through
Seminole State Joins First Scholars To Serve First-Generation Students
SANFORD, Fla. (June 29, 2020) - Seminole State College of Florida has been selected to join the inaugural cohort of First Scholars Network institutions after demonstrating a commitment to advancing the outcomes of first-generation students through improving both student success initiatives and institution-wide approaches. First Scholars was created by the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation. The
On The + Side: Fireworks Shows, Virtual Camps and Journaling Tips
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about virtual 4th of July celebrations, delicious make-ahead cookout dishes, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Embrace Families Celebrates National Reunification Month
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 25, 2020) – In honor of National Reunification Month this June, Central Florida’s leading foster care nonprofit, Embrace Families, shared statistics that illustrate the importance of reunification programs in building stronger families and communities. Since its founding in 2004, Embrace Families has followed a reunification-first model. The nonprofit seeks to keep children out of foster care – and to limit the emotional and psychological harm of separation – by helping parents build
''The Match'' Golf Tournament Raises Much-Needed Funds for the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
SANFORD, Fla., June 26, 2020—On Wednesday, June 24, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens was presented with a check for $13,000 by former Sanford Mayor, Jeff Triplett, General Manager of Mayfair Country Club, Pete Sands, and Mayor of Longwood, Matt Morgan. During the Zoo's closure, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), Pete Sands of Mayfair Country Club challenged then-Sanford Mayor, Jeff Triplett to a 9-hole game of golf. The Match was promoted through social media and followers were
SHRM, LegalShield Partner to Launch New, Affordable Legal Product to Support Small Businesses: SHRM LegalNetwork
In response to growing demand, SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) today announced a new product offering for human resource professionals working for small businesses. SHRM LegalNetwork provides businesses with affordable, legal resources during a time when many are especially concerned about legal guidance, compliance, and liability issues. The product will be supported through LegalShield, a long-time provider of legal plans for small businesses.SHRM LegalNetwork is available to HR professionals
UCF Forum: A New Kind of Presidency
By Jeff KunerthUCF Forum columnistNobody asked, but I've become a speech writer: Thank you, thank you. I accept the nomination as your presidential candidate. Traumatic times are transformative times. The pandemic and protests have changed us, now and forever. These crises have exposed deep, systemic inequities within our economy, healthcare, education, criminal justice and race relations that will take decades, not years, to fix. But our tradition of electing a new president every four years doesn't
GuideWell Launches $100K Challenge to Address Health and Racial Inequities
-Health access challenge seeks solutions aimed at reducing health care and health literacy disparities - ORLANDO, Fla. – June 24, 2020 – GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (GuideWell), the parent to a family of forward-thinking companies focused on transforming health care including that state’s leading health insurer, Florida Blue, is launching Reshaping Health Access, a statewide challenge to identify solutions focused on addressing health access and literacy to underserved populations in
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LHC Group And Orlando Health Announce Joint Venture Agreement
Partnership to include home health and home and community based services in four Florida cities LAFAYETTE, La. (June 24, 2020) – LHC Group (NASDAQ: LHCG) and Orlando Health have announced signing a definitive agreement to form a new joint venture to enhance home health and home and community based services (HCBS) in the state of Florida. The joint venture will include six total locations – three current Orlando Health providers and three current LHC Group providers in Orlando, Clermont,
Seminole County FL - JUNE 24 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 24, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 1,754 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 1,738 of which are Seminole County residents and 530 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 16 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates and additional statistics can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels.PRESS
Panera Bread Announces #FREECOFFEE4SUMMER!
ORLANDO, Fla., June 24, 2020 – This week, Panera Bread announced #FREECOFFEE4SUMMER—anyone signed up for the MyPanera+Coffee subscription will enjoy free, unlimited premium hot coffee, hot tea and iced coffee until Labor Day. Sign-ups will be open until July 4. Guests can get any size, any flavor once every two hours with unlimited refills in the bakery-cafe—that means plenty of coffee to pair with your favorite bagel, sandwich or afternoon sweet treat. Panera’s drip and iced coffee offerings include
The Countess Group Congratulates Chamber Member Dan Lopez
Seminole County, Fla. — June 24, 2020 – The Seminole County Chamber recently held its annual meeting – this year, virtually. One of the prizes offered was a free month of The Countess Group’s “Marketing Made Easy,” a marketing training membership program which includes live, online, weekly classes via Zoom combined with a website containing archives of calls and resources. Winner of the free month of membership was Dan Lopez, a Seminole County Chamber. Dan is a broker with Legends Realty, a Central
Elevation Health Announces a Workshop on Building a Titanium Strength Immune System
Lake Mary, Florida: Elevation Health will be hosting an online event, the Titanium Immune System Workshop, July 20, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. EST. This online workshop will be focusing on how to support your immune system and protect yourself from deadly viruses and infections. The Titanium Immune System Workshop will be hosted, and facilitated live, by Dr. Dan Yachter. Dr. Yachter has 23 years of experience as a health and wellness expert and is the founder of Elevation Health, a state-of-the-art
Orlando Sanford International Airport Offers a Quicker, Safer Way to Park with Contactless Parking
Sanford, FL, June 23, 2020—Passengers at Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) can park and go with ease using the airport’s new contactless parking system through REEF Technology. REEF Technology is a revolutionary platform that takes the hassle out of parking. With the launch of the new system, the days of grabbing a ticket are over. REEF’s license plate recognition system captures and records a passenger’s plate upon entry of the lot and automatically raises the bar. When leaving the lot, the
Fireworks Safety: 9 Tips From ER Doctors
On the Fourth of July, people across the country will head outside to fire up the grill, cool off in the pool and have a delicious potluck picnic. And what better way to end a long, relaxing day in the sun than lighting up the sky with red, white and blue fireworks? But with those spectacular displays come some real dangers. It’s extremely important to have a safety plan with fireworks of all sizes, as an unexpected injury could mean a visit to your local emergency department. Many emergency doctors
Embrace Families: Graduation Parades
Embrace Families recently hosted three drive-by graduation parades in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties for 40 youths in foster care. All students honored with car honking, sign waving and “contactless” gift delivery either graduated from high school, college or vocational school. According to the National Foster Youth Institute, approximately 50% of youth in foster care complete high school. However, young adults in foster care in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties have a higher success rate of
On The + Side: Fog-Free Glasses, Healthy Recipes and Science Plays
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about workouts designed by Cirque du Soleil performers, healthy summer recipes, ways to keep your glasses fog-free while wearing a mask, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Bitman O’brien & Morat Announces Cajthaml As Of Counsel For Mortgage Service And Finance Department
Faron Cajthaml adds 30 years of legal expertise to the firm ORLANDO, Fla. (June 22, 2020) — Bitman O’Brien & Morat, PLLC welcomes Faron Cajthaml as of counsel for the mortgage servicing and consumer finance department. His 30 years of experience has been focused in financial services and the banking industry. Cajthaml served as general counsel for industry leaders including Bank of America, Select Portfolio Servicing, Inc., JP Morgan Chase Bank and USAA Federal Savings Bank. He also has
Orlando Magic and Florida Blue Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Baskets for Books Program with
-The Baskets for Books program has donated more than 50,000 books to Early Learning Coalition since program inception- Orlando, Fla. (June 22, 2020) — In a continuing effort to develop lifelong learners through literacy and education, the Orlando Magic and Florida Blue are teaming up to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Baskets for Books program by offering a virtual children's book, STUFF & SUNNY Take Flight. The children's book features the unique, encouraging friendship of STUFF the Magic Mascot
Seminole State Announces Plan For Phased Reopening For Fall 2020
Most classes will remain in online or remote format for Fall Term with limited exceptions. SANFORD, Fla. (June 22, 2020) – Classes at Seminole State College of Florida will continue in online and remote format for Fall Term 2020, but a limited number of classes and services will be offered in person as part of the College’s plan for a phased reopening. The College’s Safe Campus Reopening Task Force, representing all employee groups and the student body, presented the general recommendations to the
CareerSource Central Florida Reopens its Osceola County Career Center At the Valencia College Campus on June 24
Orlando, Fla., - Beginning June 24, CareerSource Central Florida’s (CSCF) Osceola County Career Center will reopen its doors to customers for in-person, by appointment only services between 10 AM to Noon and 1 PM to 4 PM Monday through Friday. The center is located on the third floor of the Careers in Industry & Technology (CIT) building on the east side of the Valencia College campus. CSCF will follow health and safety measures in alignment with the College and official state and local guidelines, ranging
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction starts Wendover’s new Hartland Station Apartments in Atlanta
For Immediate Release June 20, 2020 Contact: Ken Cristol, Cristol Marketing Company 407-774-2515(Authorized agency for Roger B. Kennedy Construction) ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (June 20, 2020) – Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction broke ground for Hartland Station Apartments in Atlanta, under an $18 million contract with an affiliate of Wendover Housing Partners. Located at 2060 Fleet Street SW, the three-story, 131-unit project was designed by Slocum Platts Architects,
Are You Shifting Gears with Your Voice?
Protesters are yelling: “Black Lives Matter,” “I Can’t Breathe,” or “No Justice, No Peace”. They are raising their voices to amplify their message. But raising your voice is only one way to get your message across. Many of you are speaking to business audiences who are distracted at home and at work. You need more than one way to grab attention. Your voice is your greatest communications tool. To be heard, you need to master the fine art of shifting vocal gears. Many speakers get stuck in one gear and
Your Business Photographer is now FAA Licensed to Provide Drone Aerial Photography
As of December 31, 2019, there were approximately 160,302 drone certified pilots in the U.S., of those, only 10,818 or 6.7% were women. Erin Kamalzadeh, with Your Business Photographer, has joined this group of individuals and is now FAA licensed to operate a drone. Many are not aware that in order to operate a drone, for monetary purposes, the operator must be licensed through the FAA.Erin is born and raised a Native Floridian and understands the importance of economic growth and development in local
Sweet Bites & Bikes
Sweet Bites & Bikes is a virtually converted event from our annual fundraiser, Sweet Charity to help raise the necessary funds to continue providing essential resources to our neighbors in need. Participants are invited to pledge to bike 34 miles or run/walk 3.4 miles in recognition of the 34 years The Sharing Center has supported our community. Funds raised during this event will help provide urgently needed financial assistance, such as rent and utilities, as well as help our homeless neighbors experience
Seminole County FL - June 19: COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 19, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are have been 1,117 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 521 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 14 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. INCREASE IN POSITIVE CASES Over 40 cases populated in the last 24 hours as a
A Safe Place to Receive Care that Can't Wait
Central Florida Regional Hospital and Oviedo Medical Center are staffed with experienced clinicians who are ready to assist patients with health emergencies, whether COVID-19 related or not. As part of their larger network, HCA Healthcare, Central Florida Regional Hospital and Oviedo Medical Center are proactively engaged in the safe management of COVID-19, and have put a strong emphasis on ensuring that protections are in place at all of their ERs and sites of care. This means that the emergency
GuideWell, Florida Blue and Florida Blue Foundation Pledge Support to Tackle Systemic Racism
Launch of Equity Alliance with commitment of $25 million in investments over five years to address racial injustice and health inequities in Black communities ORLANDO, Fla., June 19, 2020 – GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (GuideWell), the parent to a family of forward-thinking companies focused on transforming health care; Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer; and Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Florida Blue, today announced $25 million in investments over five years
Free Patient Education Virtual Seminar
Free Patient Education Virtual Seminar Do you feel like you are always running to the bathroom? Bowel dysfunction can affect people of all ages but has an increased prevalence in older adults. Patients are generally embarrassed to discuss bowel accidents, leakage, urgency and frequency issues with their healthcare provider. We Can Help, call us at 407-644-4014 for a consultation
Seminole County FL - June 18: COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 18, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are have been 986 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 972 of which are Seminole County residents and 498 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 14 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. INCREASE IN POSITIVE CASES After a
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Seminole State’s Emil Buehler Planetarium Co-hosts Nationwide Virtual Solarbration on Saturday
One trip around the cosmos is never enough, that’s why the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium at Seminole State College of Florida is teaming up with astronomers and planetariums from all over the country to host a Solarbration. Telescopes from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, the Central Florida Astronomical Society, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association and the Feynman Observatory will all point to the sky on Saturday, June 20, 2020
Rest in Peace, Mary I. Johnson, VSC's Founder
It is with deepest regrets we share the news of the recent passing of VSC Founder, Commissioner Mary I. Johnson who died earlier this month in her home. Commissioner Johnson was the first Hispanic to be elected to the Orlando City Council where she served three terms between 1980-1992. Then, in 1992 she became the first Hispanic to be elected to the Orange County Board of County Commissioners where she served another 12 years (3 terms) until retiring from public service in in 2004. During her 24 year tenure
Kids House Wayne Densch Children's Advocacy Center Announces New Leadership
SANFORD, Fla., June 17, 2020 – Kids House Wayne Densch Children's Advocacy Center is pleased to announce that Juliette Kong has been named as chief executive officer by the organization’s board of directors, effective last month. Kong previously served as associate executive director and interim executive director. She is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization, overseeing the executive leadership team and providing oversight, guidance and strategic planning for the organization. “I
Sheryl Mays, CEO of Rise and Shine CF, Speaker at Empowering Women in Industry Conference 2020
“I’m excited to be asked to serve, as a speaker, for the Empowering Women in Industry Conference 2020. Empowering women is a life-long mission of mine. Helping women look inside and realize they have exactly what it takes to sit at the table; and, be accepted on merit and treated with fairness is a role we must all take part in. Leadership is based on empowering, motivating and inspiring. My past has been a woman on an all-male team with a male supervisor. My past has been feeling undeserving of the
84 New Videos and a Free Trial
“Marketing Made Easy” Expands Seminole County, Fla. — June 17, 2020 – The Countess Group today announced availability of 84 more videos on its “Marketing Made Easy” online learning platform. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, also announced a free 3-day trial of the class. Ongoing membership is month-to-month with no contracts. “Our goal is to give Seminole County Chamber members the tools to be better marketers,” said Countess. “What better way than to offer a 3-day free
UCF Forum: The World is Changing — and I'm Ready to Evolve With It
By Lillian M. Hernández Caraballo UCF Forum columnist “What a long year this week has been,” someone I know posted to Facebook. I’m guessing she had an exhausting day. One so draining that she felt as if she had given more time than she had available to give in a single day. She is not alone. Many people have expressed how emotionally spent they feel lately. Some say they feel hopeless. Even memes have grown rather dark, as each day we wait for the next bout of disastrous events to be announced. A
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction starts UNICORP’s The Avenue on Oakland apartments under a $47M contract
For Immediate Release June 16, 2020 Contact: Ken Cristol, Cristol Marketing Company 407-774-2515(Authorized agency for Roger B. Kennedy Construction) ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (June 16, 2020) – Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction broke ground in June for The Avenue on Oakland apartment community under a $47 million contract with UNICORP National Developments, Inc., Orlando. Marking Kennedy’s fifth major project for UNICORP, the upscale 342-unit complex will be located at 17210
Seminole County FL - June 16: COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 16, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are have been 844 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 834 of which are Seminole County residents and 490 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 13 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. TOMORROW: PRESS CONFERENCE AT TEST
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Announces Sustainability Campaign
SANFORD, Fla., June 16, 2020—The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens announced a new sustainability campaign to help combat financial losses in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. The "There Is No Zoo Without You" sustainability campaign launched today with a public plea for support. Though the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has reopened to the public, following a two-month closure to help stop the spread of COVID-19, community support is being sought to bridge the gap of more than
Your Orthopedic Visit at AdventHealth - Protecting You and Keeping You Safe During
Muscle, bone and joint problems might have seemed less important lately — you may have even had an appointment or procedure rescheduled — but your whole health and mobility matters just as much now as it ever has. We’re here to serve all your health care needs safely, and we want to assure you that we’ve taken extra safety measures when you get in-person care. In some cases, you’ll need care that can only be provided in person. We understand if you have questions about coming in for a visit or
Join us to uncover strategies to help you “Structure Your Financial Life”
Join us to uncover strategies to help you “Structure Your Financial Life” where we will be providing valuable information, tips and tools to help you achieve financial security. Attendees will learn how to build a strong financial foundation.Topics covered will address common questions such as:Am I saving enough?Am I covered for that?How can I keep more of what I earn? All while striving to protect against risk and life’s unexpected
On The + Side: Comfort Pies, Baby Koalas and Wellness Sessions
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about free online wellness sessions, children’s books to empower our youth, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
New Cath Lab and Lobby Open at South Seminole Hospital
Orlando Health Continues Investment into Seminole County Orlando, FL (June 15, 2020) – The construction fencing was the first clue that something big is happening at Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital. Now, the fencing has come down to reveal a new cardiac catheterization lab that places South Seminole Hospital among the best in the area for patients seeking top-notch cardiovascular services near their home, along with a new lobby welcoming patients and guests. With the new state-of-the-art
Cutting Edge Signs and Visuals Equips Businesses and Citizens with PPE As the State Continues to Open
The Company Offers Masks, Hand Sanitizers, Sneeze Guards, Social Distancing Signs and Floor Decals to Help Workers Fight the Epidemic. Florida, USA, June, 2020 -- Covid-19 is waging war on social norms and behaviors. It seems difficult to interact with others in markets, offices, theatres, malls and playgrounds. Social distancing is a guideline universally acknowledged by experts. Man, being a social animal, can hardly avoid visiting markets, offices and playgrounds. Cutting Edge Signs and Visuals is a
Talking to Kids About Injustice and Anxiety
As a parent, it can be hard to know what to say to your kids about the civic unrest and protests sweeping our nation. Like many adults today, I never had conversations about police brutality or discrimination with my own parents. But as a biracial woman, as the wife of a black man and the mother of a black child, I need to equip my four-year-old daughter with the information she needs to be safe. I do so with the knowledge that, even if I raise her to be a model citizen, she will face injustice,
Goodwill To Host Job Networking Webinar On June 26
Free Session Will Help Build Connections and Professional Relationships WHAT: On Fri., June 26, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida will help job seekers learn virtually how to use networking to find their next job. The nonprofit’s free informational webinar will teach viewers how to connect professionally and build relationships to help land the job they want. Interested participants can register by visiting https://bit.ly/3hkVPvr. With unemployment remaining at record highs,
Florida Blue triples COVID-19 community investments to over $7 million
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 12, 2020) – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced today it is more than tripling its COVID-19 community investments to over $7 million. In March, the insurer provided an initial $2 million to organizations across the state to address urgent health and safety needs. Florida Blue will invest an additional $2.5 million to provide access to testing and health care, food security and other essential needs for Floridians. Additionally, the insurer plans to contribute more
Florida Blue lowers bills to 22,000 Florida businesses
Florida Blue is helping Florida businesses continue to provide health insurance to more than 600,000 employees by reducing the amount businessowners pay. The July invoices sent out this month to approximately 22,000 Florida-based companies will reflect a 15% reduction in health insurance premiums for the month as well as a 50% reduction in dental plan costs for July. The insurer is also providing businesses with free virtual doctor’s visits through Teladoc as well as waiving costs for virtual behavior
Chamber Members Save 50%
Special benefit for Seminole Chamber members Seminole County, Fla. — June 10, 2020 – Today’s marketing is continually evolving, and it’s tough to stay ahead of the curve. If marketing is not something you do every day, you need a helping hand to get maximum results out of your time and money. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, recently launched “Marketing Made Easy,” a live, online, weekly class combined with a website containing archives of calls and resources. Membership in the
MLS is Back Tournament | Starts July 8th in Orlando
MLS today announced the league’s plan to restart the 2020 season with all 26 MLS clubs competing in the MLS is Back Tournament. Housed in The City Beautiful, the tournament will take place at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort in neighboring Lake Buena Vista beginning July 8. For the MLS is Back Tournament, teams will be drawn into one of six groups during a live draw that will take place tomorrow, Thursday, June 11 at 3:30 p.m. EDT. As the host club, Orlando City SC will be
Pam Hargis Receives the FocalPoint International Inc. 2019 Kaizen Award
SANFORD, Fla. - June 10, 2020 - PRLog -- During its 2020 Annual Conference, FocalPoint Business Coaching awarded its annual Kaizen Award to Pam Hargis, a FocalPoint Business Coach based in the Florida area. Kaizen is the Japanese word for constant and never-ending improvement. The Business Coach who wins this award has shown personal tenacity and discipline by consistently working on their knowledge and skills. "Pam has worked diligently to establish herself in her community and add value to every
Recovered by Oils announces new product!
June 9 2020 Recovered by Oils Announces new ProductOviedo— June 9 2020— Today at the Seminole County Chamber Zoom Meeting, Recovered by Oils announced immediate availability of Healy, a Frequency Specific Microcurrent device, and brand new to the US. “Bioenergetic medicine has been widely used for decades in Europe. Electromedicine is truly the wave of the future,” said Laurie Harrington, manager at Recovered by Oils. Innovative TechnologyHealy is a frequency specific microcurrent medical device
Limited Time Left for Youth to Apply to Earn $1,000 and Discover College, Career Pathways
Orlando, Fla., – CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) is calling on youth, ages 15-19, to now apply to join the Explore and Accelerate tracks for its 2020 Summer Youth Program starting July 6, 2020. Explore helps youth demystify college as CSCF partners with local state and technical colleges to help prospective students explore their options and make an informed choice. With the ability to gain industry experience, build a marketable resume and begin their job search, Accelerate provides youth the power
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Feel So Good at SoFLo
Breathe, Flow, Let Go at SoFLo’s Opening Weekend Lake Mary, Fla (June 10, 2020)—SoFLo Hot Yoga will open its doors to the public for the first time at 8:00 am Saturday, June 13, 2020, in the Crystal Lake Business Center at 187 E. Crystal Lake Ave., Lake Mary, Fla. Given the COVID pandemic, the studio is needed now more than ever since yoga has been proven to improve immune systems and decrease inflammation. Psychological stress can impact many systems in the body, including weakening the immune system
2020 Dream Cup Challenge Golf Tournament Raises Over $44k For Scholarships
SANFORD, Fla. (June 10, 2020) - This year’s Dream Cup Challenge golf tournament players braved the summer heat and worked to stay safe with social distancing measures for the 37th annual tournament on June 1. Thirty-one teams participated and showed their support for programs, scholarships and other areas of need at the College, raising over $44,000. “I’m so grateful that our community and business leaders, as well as our donors, were able to attend and show their support during these unprecedented
UCF Forum: Life Lessons From Baking My Own Bread
By Emma Gisclair UCF Forum columnist No matter where I go on the internet right now—Tik Tok, Instagram, Reddit—I can’t escape it: images of delicious, fresh-baked bread. It seems like everyone is baking during stay-at-home orders. Maybe it’s merely a way to fill the time or the result of bread shortages early in the pandemic. Maybe the methodical tasks of measuring, mixing and kneading give people a sense of comfort or control or accomplishment that is sorely needed at this moment in time. All I know
Summer Internships Are A Win-Win
Elevate your business through our Summer Youth Experience. CareerSource Central Florida invites your business to partner with us and host summer interns for up to 5 weeks at no cost to you. Students participating in CareerSource Central Florida’s Summer Youth Experience track earn wages funded by CareerSource Central Florida, network with professionals and gain hands-on experience working in their field of interest. Rebuild your business and our Central Florida community, while inspiring young
Florida Blue's COVID-19 Resources and Support
Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, is taking additional actions in response to the pandemic, having already made several policy adjustments to combat the spread of COVID-19 while minimizing barriers to testing and treatment. $100 Million in health care cost relief to Florida Blue membersTo continue to support our Florida Blue members during this difficult time, we recently announced programs and policy adjustments to provide $100 million in health care cost relief including extra time to
Seminole County FL - JUNE 9 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 9, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 561 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 553 of which are Seminole County residents and 456 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. POP-UP COMMUNITY TEST
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Duke Energy pledges $1 million in grants to support social justice and racial equity
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy, through its foundation, is pledging $1 million to nonprofit organizations committed to social justice and racial equity. Grants will be distributed across seven states where the company has electric and gas customers – North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. In a first for the company, employees of Duke Energy and subsidiary Piedmont Natural Gas will help identify opportunities and direct grants to their local communities. The
Florida Blue hiring 150 bilingual member care specialists to work from home
Are you bilingual? Do you want to work from home? Would you like to have your summers off with full pay and benefits? Florida Blue has 150 member care specialists roles currently open for bilingual candidates. These positions can work remotely anywhere in Florida and offer a teacher-like schedule where you work nine months and are off for three months during the summer with full pay and benefits. At the end of the three months, you would return for another nine-month rotation. The offer paid training,
Avon - A Beautiful You Announces
Your Local Avon Man is approaching Covid-19 very seriously. When delivering products, I will be wearing a mask and placing products at your door-step. I am asking that all customers leave payment under the front mat, pay by Zelle, or pay by Venmo. Here is Avon’s Answer to Covid-19 Avon Senses Fresh Cucumber & Melon Antibacterial Hand Gel Use it at home or keep it in tow for when you’re on the go. Germs won’t stand a chance. 2.5 fl. oz. Benefits: • Kills 99.99% of bacteria in 15 seconds •
Seminole County Fire Department Firefighter Recruit Class Graduation of 2001
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL - June 5, 2020 - The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) is pleased to announce the graduation of Firefighter Recruit Class 2001. The 17 recruits graduated today after 10 weeks of orientation training. The firefighter recruits began their career with SCFD on March 30th, 2020. Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, they were temporarily reassigned for 5 weeks to meet CDC guidelines and to assist with the pandemic response. Temporary assignments included logistics, technology, emergency
Seminole County FL - COVID-19 Update and Virtual Hurricane Expo Launches
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 8, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 544 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 536 of which are Seminole County residents and 462 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. POP-UP COMMUNITY TEST SITES Seminole
Duke Energy Continues STEM Support for SCPS Students
Thank you to Duke Energy for their $35,000 grant to support critical STEM opportunities for students attending Seminole County Public Schools next year! Their support enhances a number of Foundation and district projects including: Grants for Great Ideas, which is a competitive grant program that funds teacher-led STEM, Literacy, and Art projects; the 2nd SCPS Physics Bus, which will travel to each elementary school to deliver hands-on physics lessons; and the Engineering Program at Lyman High School,
On The + Side: Mr. Rogers, Curator Chats and Free Hugs
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about resources for talking to your children about social justice, self-care tips for even the busiest among us, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Enters ?Phase 2 of Reopening
SANFORD, Fla., June 8, 2020—As part of Florida’s Phase 2 reopening of the state, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has made updates to their modified operations. Zoo operations will continue to be modified, following federal and local guidelines, to ensure the safety of Zoo visitors, annual pass holders, staff, and animals. Modifications will include limiting in-park attendance to 50% capacity, required online timed ticketing for all guests, additional barriers around certain animal habitats, and
Seminole County FL - JUNE 5 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 5, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 516 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 508 of which are Seminole County residents and 452 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PLAYGROUNDS, PLAYING FIELDS, CENTRAL
WELBRO Transports More Than 25,000 Pounds of Fresh Produce to Local Food Pantries
WELBRO – Making a Difference The past two months have been quite an adventure for all of us. COVID-19 has affected all aspects of our lives. It has changed the way we do things but it has not changed who we are. Knowing that there were some trucks not on jobsites, WELBRO’s leadership team made the decision to utilize the vehicles to support the community. WELBRO partnered with SoSA, the Society of St. Andrew, a non-profit agency that gleans farm fields after the harvest, through the help of
Embrace Families, Inc. Applauds Congressmen Davis and Bacon for Recognizing National Foster Care Month by Helping Foster Youth Gain Independence with Driver’s Licenses
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 4, 2020) - The end of Foster Care Awareness Month brought with it a new beginning for thousands of foster children across America. Embrace Families enthusiastically supports the Foster Youth and Driving Act (H.R. 7042) recently introduced by Congressman Danny Davis (D-IL) and Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE) to promote access to driver’s licenses for foster youth. Modeled on the successful Keys to Independence, or K2I program in Florida, the Foster Youth and Driving Act would create
Seminole County FL - JUNE 4 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 4, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 511 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 503 of which are Seminole County residents and 446 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. SEMINOLE COUNTY EXECUTIVE ORDER TO BE
PPP Update from Senator RIck Scott
Last night the Senate passed by voice vote H.R.7010 - Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020. This bill is now headed to the President to be signed into law. You can click HERE for an extended summary and full bill text, but a couple high-level highlights include: · This bill modifies provisions related to the forgiveness of loans made to small businesses under the Paycheck Protection Program implemented in response to COVID-19. · Specifically, the bill establishes a
Fertilize With Summer Blends Through September 30
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 4, 2020)-- Seminole County Watershed Management advises residents to utilize “summer blend” fertilizers from June 1 to September 30, Central Florida’s rainiest months, in an effort to mitigate pollution in natural water bodies. Fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorous cannot be applied to turf during the restricted season from June 1 to September 30. Fertilizers containing iron, manganese and other "micronutrients" also referred to as "summer blends" can be applied during
Facebook Ads Generate More Visibility For New Client
Business owner benefits from greater visibility at lower cost Seminole County, Fla. — June 3, 2020 – Facebook is well known for its ability to reach new prospects for businesses. But like anything else, you have to know what you’re doing – otherwise it’s like flushing money down the toilet. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, was recently contacted by an attendee of one of his recent webinars. The business owner, who has been in business for 10 years and has a big store on Amazon,
Axiom Bank CEO Appointed To Florida Bankers Association Board
As a Member, Dan Davis Will Help Define Banking Standards in Florida ORLANDO, Fla. (June 3, 2020) – Dan Davis, president and CEO of Axiom Bank, N.A., was recently appointed to a two-year term on the Board of Directors of the Florida Bankers Association (FBA). The Board is made up of representatives from both national and community banks. As a member of the FBA Board of Directors, Davis will be responsible for setting policy and overseeing the general operation of the Association. Board members are
Florida Blue Parent Company Hiring 1,200
GuideWell, the parent company the state’s leading health insurer Florida Blue, is hiring 1,200 licensed health insurance agents in preparation for fall open enrollment. These are full-time temporary contractor positions will allow agents to work from home starting between June and September and continuing through December. The roles include a $17/hour wage as well as commissions. Candidates must have an active state health insurance sales license (the 215 or 240 license in Florida). Bilingual candidates are
Cookies for Heroes
Thank local heroes for all they do to help our community cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. ORLANDO (June 3, 2020) – With just a few weeks left in the 2020 Girl Scout Cookie Program, girls and troops across Central Florida suddenly found themselves facing an unlikely dilemma. The spread of COVID-19 had led the local council, Girl Scouts of Citrus (GSC), to cancel all Girl Scout activities until further notice – including cookie booths. It was a difficult decision, one that impacted nearly 18,000 girl and
When Your Loved One Receives a Diagnoses of Alzheimer’s Disease: 10 Tips for Family Caregivers
Are you providing care for a loved one who is liv- ing with Alzheimer’s disease or another cognitive impairment? If so, you are not alone. Today, more than five million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and 16 million family mem- bers and friends are serving as their unpaid care- givers.These caregivers share your experiences and concerns, and they are a fountain of valuable information. Here are a few things they can tell
CareerSource Central Florida Receives $20,000 Grant From Dr. Phillips Charities For Summer Youth Program
Orlando, Fla., — CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) announced that it has received a $20,000 grant from Dr. Phillips Charities for championing opportunities tied with CSCF Summer Youth Program, a workforce development program designed to fuel young adult’s career opportunities and educational growth potential. “CareerSource Central Florida is honored to receive this grant that will be very advantageous to our youth recipients. We believe this endeavor perfectly aligns with Dr. Phillips Charities’ areas
City of Debary's Continuing Professional General Engineering Services
The City of DeBary, Florida, hereby announces that it is accepting written proposals from all qualified firms or individuals interested in providing the services generally described herein and as specified in the “Scope of Services”. The successful proposer(s) must demonstrate their qualifications, experience, availability, approach and work plan which will best serve the overall needs of the City.Sealed proposals on forms prepared by the City will be received by THE CITY OF DEBARY at CITY HALL located at
VSC COVID-19 Procedural Changes for Your Safety
VSC has been and will continue to be open to clients and those that need our free and confidential services. VSC continues to provide virtual telehealth services and going forward may provide in-person services on an as-needed basis when it is safe to do so as appropriate. To make in-person visits as safe as possible we are instituting a few new procedural changes:All clients coming to VSC offices in-person must have a scheduled appointment where an advocate will explain to you what to expect when
On The + Side: Sea Turtles, Drive-In Movies and Crossover Episodes
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about free virtual relationship workshops, how to care for your houseplants, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Seminole County FL - JUNE 1 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 1, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 493 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 485 of which are Seminole County residents and 440 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRE-APPLICATIONS NOW ACCEPTED FOR
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction Ranks 6th Largest Among OBJ’s 2020 Top 25 Construction Companies-Local
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (June 1, 2020) - Roger B. Kennedy Construction prominently ranks 6th largest among Orlando Business Journal’s 2020 Top 25 Construction Companies/General Contractors-Local, based on 2019 revenues of $134.45 million. The Altamonte Springs-based company also currently ranks as Central Florida’s 4th largest Family-Owned Business and 27th largest among OBJ’s Golden 100 top privately-held companies in Central Florida.The Kennedy organization has been in continuous operation as a
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Orlando Health Hospitals Receive “A” Grades From Leapfrog Group
Orlando, FL (May 27, 2020) – The Leapfrog Group has released its hospital Safety Grades for the Spring 2020 rating period and three Orlando Health hospitals earned A Grades: Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital received a B and Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital received a C. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care
CareerSource Central Florida Reopens its Career Center Locations on June 3, Virtual Services Continu
May 29, 2020, Orlando, Fla., - As the government eases lockdown and the economy begins to rebound from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) is reopening its doors to customers beginning June 3 for in-person, by appointment services only, between 10 AM to Noon and 1 PM to 4 PM Monday through Friday at its Seminole County, Southeast Orange County and Lake County Career Center. The Osceola County Career Center will reopen when Valencia College opens sometime this summer, and
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Addition Financial Gives Back in LSCU Credit Unions Care Challenge
Lake Mary, Fla. (May 28, 2020) – To support small businesses and give back to local non-profits, Addition Financial recently participated in the “Credit Unions Care Challenge,” presented by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions (LSCU). Through this initiative, Addition Financial purchased lunches for its employees throughout the month of April, encouraging branches and departments to choose takeout options at locally-owned restaurants. In response, LSCU matched these funds to donate back to the credit
A Laugh a Day Keeps the COVID Away
It seems like there’s nothing to laugh about anymore. But maybe we should start. By Peter Telep UCF Forum columnist It’s easy during this global pandemic to become depressed. I’ve watched my daughter reduced to tears because she couldn’t attend her college graduation ceremony at UCF. I’ve heard from friends struggling to teach their kids at home, while other family members and friends lose their jobs. Even worse, I’ve watched news stories about critically ill patients who are denied final moments with
Seminole State Arts, Planetarium partner to present ‘Silent Sky’
SANFORD, Fla. (May 28, 2020) – The Center for Fine and Performing Arts at Seminole State College of Florida will present a live reading of the play “Silent Sky,” in partnership with the College’s Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium, June 4, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. “Silent Sky” tells the true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt. In a time of immense scientific discoveries, Leavitt and her female peers work at Harvard Observatory, but find their ideas and theories pushed aside or ignored
Seminole County FL - May 27 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 27, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 472 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 464 of which are Seminole County residents; 417 confirmed cases have been completed and there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the
Emergency Small Business Grant and Antibody Testing
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 27, 2020)- Seminole County continues to respond to COVID-19. Two key takeaways from today’s press conference include the advent of the Emergency Small Business Grant, as well as the upcoming partnership between Seminole County and OneBlood to provide easily accessible antibody testing. Details on both as follows: EMERGENCY SMALL BUSINESS GRANT Seminole County Government announced today that small businesses impacted by COVID-19 can now apply for a one-time grant to help offset
Plans Unveiled for the Phased Reopening of Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Resort Hotels and Disney Stores
Throughout these past few months, we’ve been touched by the outpouring of support from our guests and fans around the world who’ve shared their favorite Disney memories and even replicated their favorite attractions at home. Everyone who has ever visited a Disney theme park has their own special connection to these magical worlds and the amazing cast members who bring that magic to life. Following the recent reopening of Shanghai Disney Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, we’re
Seminole County Sheriff's Office - May Dispatcher
1. Our Six Heroes - In case you missed it, earlier this month we launched a documentary program, “Our VI Heroes," which salutes our six brave deputies who’ve sacrificed their lives while wearing the SCSO badge. Two years in the making, get to know them and their families who’ve also sacrificed so much and help us to honor that sacrifice. We will never forget. 2. Lab Worker Charged - The SCSO Financial Crimes Task Force has charged a local lab worker, 36-year-old Marystely Ortiz of Sanford, with
On The + Side: Blanket Forts, Olympic Workouts and Gratitude
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about virtual tours of Machu Picchu, how Olympic athletes are working out at home, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
SCPS Graduation Plan B in Effect (July)
Due to the current and continuing social distancing guidelines, we will not be able to hold the planned June 11 High School Dances or June 12 (June 13 for Crooms) stadium graduations for the class of 2020. We are, however, still releasing our virtual graduation on or about July 1 and moving forward with our stadium graduation backup date of July 17 (July 18 for Crooms) with High School Dances on July 16th. Graduation Plan #2 *(provided social distancing rules have not been lifted by June) July 16th -
Seminole State’s Virtual Graduation Honors Spring 2020 Graduates
SANFORD, Fla. (May 21, 2020) - Though it may not have looked like how they always imagined it would, graduating students from Seminole State College of Florida had the opportunity to celebrate with family and friends through a virtual graduation on May 20, 2020. On top of their virtual graduation, qualifying Spring 2020 graduates will be invited to participate in the Fall 2020 commencement as well. More than 2,100 degrees and certificates were awarded during the ceremony with students, family and friends
Summer Tips for a Successful Transition to Middle School in the Fall
By: Carmen Malca, Middle School Math Teacher at Seminole Science Charter School After an unexpected switch to distance learning amid the ongoing pandemic, many students are more than ready to complete the 2019-2020 school year and begin their well-deserved summer break. While the fall may seem like a long way off, parents should begin considering how they can assist any children making the transition from elementary to middle school. Think back to your own middle school years and you’ll likely
IMPOWER Granted $600,000 to Provide Telehealth Services for Mental Health/Substance Abuse Treatment
LONGWOOD, Florida, May 21, 2020 – Longwood, FL-based IMPOWER, Inc. has been selected by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) to receive a $600,000 emergency grant to provide Telehealth services for individuals across the state that address mental health and substance use disorders brought on my COVID- 19.. The funding is part of a $1.9 million total award, announced Monday, May 18, by First Lady Casey DeSantis, and received by DCF from the United States Department of Health and Human
Axiom Bank, N.A. Donates $10,000 To Hunger Relief Efforts During Covid-19 Pandemic
ORLANDO, Fla. (May 22, 2020) – Axiom Bank, N.A. donated $10,000 to two nonprofits committed to fighting hunger across Central Florida and Tampa. Feeding Children Everywhere, headquartered in Longwood, and Feeding Tampa Bay were each gifted $5,000 to aid in their mission of providing meals to families in need. With the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to stagger the region, both hunger relief groups have reported increased need at levels never seen before. “As a community bank, we
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Sportzcast Graduates from UCF Business Incubator in Winter Springs
Leading sports technology company stays in the city after doubling its size during time in the Incubation program Winter Springs, Fla. (May 22, 2020) – After two years at the UCF Business Incubator in Winter Springs, Sportzcast is graduating the program. The company will remain in Winter Springs, signing a lease for office space in the same building as the incubator for its eight full-time, and one part-time, employees. “Our time at the Incubator has been very productive for our business and we truly
Tech Rage IT Releases Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Businesses
Company provides a plan that includes remote workers ahead of hurricane season Winter Springs, Fla., May 21, 2020 – Businesses in Central Florida are used to the routine of preparing for a hurricane strike after several close calls the past few years. But, are you positive you’re ready for the big storm, particularly with so many people working remotely? Tech Rage IT is here to help you. With hurricane season starting June 1, Tech Rage IT has released its Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Businesses:
Now More Than Ever We Need to be Vigilant for Symptoms of Distress
By Syretta Spears UCF Forum columnist We’ve all heard “April showers bring May flowers,” a favorite quote that reminds us that a new season is upon us and the possibilities of brighter days are just around the corner. But this year is different. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and during this unprecedented time we should all take assessment of our mental well-being and that of those close to us. Living through a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic with so many uncertainties, people may
The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program Announcement A Higher standard of Clean!
SERVPRO of North Seminole & West Volusia Counties has announced the launch of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned—a cleaning and disinfecting program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When businesses choose SERVPRO, their employees, customers, and community can rest assured that they’ve selected a “higher standard of clean”—Certified: SERVPRO
LegalShield Appoints Arnold Blinn as Chief Architect
May 19, 2020 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time ADA, Okla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LegalShield, the world’s leading provider of legal and privacy protection plans, today announced the appointment of Arnold Blinn as Chief Architect, effective immediately, reporting to Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bell. “In now our 48th year, LegalShield continues to serve more people with legal and privacy management services. Arnold brings a tremendous amount of technical and large-scale web services expertise, dedicated to meeting
Ken Countess Launches “Marketing Made Easy”
Weekly online class available for business owners Seminole County, Fla. — May 20, 2020 – It helps to have a friend in marketing. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, has launched “Marketing Made Easy,” a live, online, weekly class combined with a website containing archives of calls and resources. Membership in the class is month-to-month with no contracts. “We’ve had great demand for help with marketing,” said Countess. “During these classes, we answer questions and provide
Majority Of Goodwill Stores And All Donation Xpress Centers Now Open
ORLANDO, Fla. (May 20, 2020) – As of today, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida has reopened 90% of its retail stores and all Donation Xpress Centers across a six-county region. By the end of May, the nonprofit will have rehired approximately 800 of the 1,000 employees who were laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Goodwill’s mission is to ‘build lives that work,’ so we feel fortunate to not only reopen so many of our stores, but also to rehire so many of our employees,” said Kim Praniewicz, senior
Central Florida Business Brokerages adds new Business Broker
Altamonte Springs, Fl. – Central Florida Business Brokerage is pleased to announce that Jayne Santucci is now a Business Broker covering the Central Florida area. Jhayne received her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting in 1992 and started her career in Tax with the Big 4 CPA firms – PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and Arthur Andersen LLP in Chicago, IL. In 2006, Jhayne relocated to Central Florida to join a CPA firm specialized in International Taxation. In 2009, she joined the largest reseller and
Seminole County FL - MAY 20 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 20, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 443 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 435 of which are Seminole County residents; 392 confirmed cases have been completed and there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the
Seminole County Burn Ban Enacted
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 19,2019) - Today, Seminole County enacted a countywide burn ban in accordance with County Code, Section, 85.24: When dry weather conditions result in a Keetch-Byram Drought Index reading at 500 or higher, a prohibition on all open burning in Seminole County, as defined in Section 85.26 of this code, will take effect upon the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners signing an Executive Order. The burn ban will not apply to burning done by, or under the direct supervision
On The + Side: Harry Potter, Free Donuts and Home Manicures
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how to keep produce fresh, “off the bike” workouts, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
HCA Healthcare Awarded 2019 Eisenberg Patient Safety And Quality Award
National Quality Forum, The Joint Commission recognize HCA Healthcare for its algorithm-driven sepsis early warning technology SANFORD & OVIEDO, Fla., May 14, 2020 – HCA Healthcare (NYSE: HCA), the parent company of Central Florida Regional Hospital and Oviedo Medical Center, as well as one of the nation’s leading healthcare providers, today announced that it has been recognized by The Joint Commission and the National Quality Forum (NQF) with the prestigious John M. Eisenberg Patient Safety and Quality
AT&T Foundation Contributes $25,000 to Orlando Health Relief Fund to Support Healthcare Heroes
ORLANDO, Fla., May 18, 2020 – The AT&T Foundation is donating $25,000 to the Orlando Health Team Member Relief Fund to support those on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant will be used to provide stipends for living expenses, such as rent and utilities, to healthcare workers most affected by the pandemic. “We are grateful for the AT&T Foundation’s generosity to the frontline healthcare workers at Orlando Health during the constantly evolving COVID-19 pandemic,” said John
Friday May 22 Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 18, 2020) – Seminole County is proud to honor the members of our nation’s armed forces and first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty through a Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at the Seminole County Heroes Memorial this Friday, May 22, 2020 at 9:00a.m. The Ceremony will feature:Honor Guard presentations from the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and Seminole County Fire Department;A reading of the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners’ Memorial
Seminole County FL - MAY 15 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 15, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 430 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 422 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 12:00PM
Seminole County Sports Hall of Fame Inductions
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 14, 2020)-- The Seminole County Sports Hall of Fame will induct seven new members on May 21, 2020. These inductees have contributed to Seminole County sports as either an athlete, coach, official, administrator, financial supporter. The Seminole County Recreation Council will recognize the inductees during Day of Champions, a Facebook Live event, which replaces the annual Breakfast of Champions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The virtual Day of Champions presentation will be hosted
Seminole County FL - MAY 14 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 14, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 426 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 418 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been 11 COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS
Cut Down On Digital Distractions
SANFORD, Fla. (May 14, 2020) - You have a paper to write and at least three chapters to review, but what is a diligent student to do when all their favorite study spots have been temporarily closed? Taking online classes is an efficient way to get work done, but in a digital world that is clamoring for our attention, these tips can help you stay focused and GO Far! 1. No NetflixWhile many of us feel we work better with background noise, turning on your favorite show to play in the background isn’t going to
Tips For Setting Up Your Home Office
SANFORD, Fla. (May 14, 2020) - Working from home can be a nightmare as much as it can be a dream for some people. For most, it is a mix of both. While favorite cafes, libraries and work spots have closed, we have all faced adjustments while working and studying from home. For many, an expansive home office in a spare room simply isn’t an option, but there are steps you can take to make the most out of the space you have!Location Watching ZOOM lectures in bed or on the couch may seem like a great idea,
Are You Anxious? Four Steps Will Calm You Down
Are you anxious, worried, uneasy or apprehensive about your business, getting sick or an upcoming presentation? You’re not alone. Dr. Richard Zinbarg, chairman of the Northwestern University Psychology Department, said, “Just about all of us have some levels of anxiety and worry.” Good. You’re normal. Now, how do you handle your anxiety? As a speaker and a public speaking coach, there are three anxiety questions I’m often asked: “What should I do if I forget a key point? How can I deliver a presentation
CareerSource Central Florida Debuts New Podcast that Connects Career Seekers, Businesses and the Com
May 14, 2020, Orlando, Fla. --- CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) announced the debut of Job LaunchPad, a podcast aimed at sharing topics on the career journey, talent and recruitment needs of businesses, labor market and the overall workforce landscape with subject matter experts in the community and within CSCF. Piloted by two episodes with helpful tips on the impact to individuals during the Coronavirus pandemic, the podcast is available by visiting the CareerSource Central Florida website. Listeners
Central Florida Regional Hospital Nationally Recognized with an ‘A’ for the Spring 2020 Leapfrog Hos
Sanford, Fla., May 14, 2020 – Central Florida Regional Hospital was awarded an ‘A’ in the spring 2020 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing achievements in providing safer health care. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. The Safety Grade is a letter grade assigned to all general hospitals across the country and updated every six months, assessing how well the hospital prevents medical errors and other
Joel Greenberg Starting Road Tests, Concealed Weapon Permits on Monday
Services have new restrictions and guidelines to start back upLake Mary, Fla (May 13, 2020) – For Seminole County teenagers ready to start driving on their own, the milestone event in their lives can now take place on Monday.Seminole County Tax Collector Joel Greenberg will be opening all services back up starting on Monday, including road tests and permits for concealed weapons.“We’re using a system developed to ensure our staff do not have to be in a car with new drivers,” Greenberg says. “We wanted this
Seek care in a medical emergency even amid COVID-19
By Paul Hamilton, MD, Chair Oviedo Medical Center’s Emergency Department As stay-at-home orders are lifted and a variety of services become available again, in Central Florida and across the U.S., families and individuals may still be hesitant to seek medical care, even when experiencing a health emergency. Nationwide, doctors are urging individuals who may have symptoms of a medical emergency to immediately act and are reminding residents that hospitals and emergency rooms remain a safe place to seek
Nemours Webinar -- Finding Your Best ''New Normal''
The first year of life with a new baby is a magical time of learning and exploring. What many new parents do not expect are the moments of frustration, confusion, concern and self-doubt that are also a normal part of life with a baby. Join us at this free webinar to hear from Dr. Lisa Spector, a Nemours pediatric development expert. Dr. Spector has helped many families discover how they can navigate child rearing during difficult times. Attend to hear her tips and answers to parent questions. The event
UCF Forum: Regaining Our Innocence -- Planning a concert to reassure us and provide hope for a retur
By Chung Park UCF Forum columnist The events of the past two months have unfolded with terrifying suddenness only to be followed by a slow drip of grim news. Within three days of our spring break we learned that classes had been canceled for the rest of the month, with the news coming just a few days later that all in-person classes for the rest of the semester were moving to online. Lives have been interrupted. Graduations, holidays, sporting events and even funerals have been delayed or
Help us honor our six fallen heroes - Seminole County Sheriff's Office
As part of National Police Week, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office will be releasing a special documentary program, “Our VI Heroes,” to honor the six deputies who’ve sacrificed their lives while wearing the SCSO uniform. On Monday we released a short teaser trailer that you can watch by clicking here. Our VI Heroes covers a period of nearly ninety years in our agency’s history; from 1922, when Deputy Sheriff Cleveland Jacobs was shot and killed investigating a theft case, to 2011, when Motors Unit
Seminole County FL - MAY 12 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 12, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 418 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 410 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been 11 COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. LIBRARY
Florida Blue Provides $100 Million in Health Care Cost Relief to Members of its Individual, Fully Insured Employer Group and Medicare Advantage Plans
The insurer is taking several steps to support health plan members and communities JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 12, 2020 – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, today announced additional actions being taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to support: Premium Payment Period Extended: In April, Florida Blue announced it was extending the premium due date through May for customers who needed extra time to pay premiums as a result of the COVID-19 health crisis and would otherwise have been
Seminole County FL - Save a Life Twice-Donate Blood and Adopt a Pet
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 12, 2020)- Seminole County Animal Services will host a Blood Drive for OneBlood from 9:30a.m.-3:30p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2020. All donors on the Big Red Bus on Saturday will receive a voucher for a free pet adoption of your choice, valid through November 2020. The voucher is transferrable. To make a donation appointment go to www.oneblood.org/donate-now and use sponsor code #7280 For more info call 407-665-5208. Seminole County Animal Services offers adoptions by appointment
Orlando Solar Bears And Pizza Hut Team Up To Help Central Florida Families In Need
Net proceeds of every Heart-Shaped Pizza purchased from May 18-20 will support Children’s Home Society of Florida ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears have announced that the hockey club and longtime partner Pizza Hut are teaming up to assist families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. When fans purchase a Heart-Shaped Pizza from Pizza Hut from May 18-20, all net proceeds will go to benefit the Children’s Home Society of Florida (CHS). In addition, the Solar Bears will join Pizza Hut in making a
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens to Reopen to the Public on Wednesday, May 13
SANFORD, Fla., May 11, 2020—As part of Florida’s Phase 1 reopening of the state, following federal and local guidelines, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens will be reopening to the public on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at 10 AM. Zoo operations will be modified until further notice to ensure the safety of Zoo visitors, annual pass holders, staff, and animals. Modifications will include limiting in-park attendance to 50% of outdoor capacity, required online timed ticketing for all guests, one-way
On The + Side: Flamingo Sightings, Soccer Lessons and 407 Dates
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about virtual graduation events, free Workout Wednesdays, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Seminole County Library Branches Reopening Tuesday May 12
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 11, 2020)- Seminole County Library will reopen the North, Northwest, West and East branches beginning tomorrow, May 12, 2020. The Jean Rhein Central Branch remains closed until further notice. HOURS OF OPERATION The Seminole County East, West, North, and Northwest branches will be open with the modified hours:Monday-Thursday, 10:00a.m. until 7:00p.m.Friday-Saturday, 9:00a.m. until 5:00p.m.Sunday, 1:00-5:00p.m. CAPACITY & SOCIAL DISTANCING Library branches will be managed with
Seminole County FL - MAY 9 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 9, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 410 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 402 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been 11 COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. MEDIA
MouseMail Special Edition: Our First Steps Forward
Hello everyone, Following recent state and local guidelines permitting the reopening of some Florida businesses, we’ve seen a strong interest in what our next steps may be. As we plan for the future, we’re keeping the health and well-being of both our cast members and our guests at the forefront of planning efforts. Today, I’m pleased to share that we’re preparing for a phased reopening of select locations owned by third-party operating participants in the Disney Springs shopping and dining district,
Seminole County FL - MAY 8 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 8, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 410 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 402 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been ten COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. ALLIED
Goodwill To Reopen Select Stores And Donation Xpress Centers
Nonprofit’s Services Needed as COVID-19 Fuels Unemployment ORLANDO, Fla. (May 8, 2020) – As of today, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida has reopened six of its retail stores and 12 Donation Xpress Centers. The nonprofit plans to reopen the remaining locations in phases, including its new retail store in Lady Lake. New safety measures, such as one-way aisles and plexiglass partitions at the registers, will be in place at all reopened stores. In addition, employees will be wearing facemasks and
Seminole County Chamber Joins National Effort to Assist Cultural Faciilities
This week, the Seminole County Chamber joined forces with 39 other chambers around the country to urge Congress to include cultural organizations, like the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Society, in their appropriations for COVID-19 relief. "Our non-profits operate like any other business and have had to shut their doors like so many others," says Jason Brodeur, president/CEO, Seminole County Chamber. "We need to help them, their employees and the service they provide remain long after this pandemic has
Real Pets Rock Pink-Virtual Fundraiser for Making Strides of Orlando
Real Pets Rock Pink (RPRP) is a campaign benefiting the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk of Orlando. This new fundraising campaign offers the community a unique opportunity to join the fight against breast cancer, showcase their pets and bring a smile to faces! This year, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Orlando is on Saturday, October 31st a.k.a. HALLOWEEN! To help get everyone excited for a festive walk day, the American Cancer Society wants to offer everyone the opportunity to show off
Feed The ER Movement! We Need Your Help!
Altamonte Springs, FL: Dr. Leonard Rollman from Wellspring Health along with Feed The ER team members invites the Seminole County community to participate in the Feed The ER movement by donating towards supplying our local ER’s with 50 meals. Participants can donate at gf.me/u/xudxc3 “If we can keep the people on the frontlines healthy, they can keep your family and friends healthy,”says Dr.Rollman, chiropractor at Wellspring Health. “We’re here for everyone, and it’s our job,” says Carley Bradely,
Knights Rise to the Challenge
May is a time when we think about our graduating seniors or, perhaps, the excitement of your own graduation and joining the ranks of UCF alumni. Graduation marks an important time in our lives – and one we should be proud of. Even though the Class of 2020 is faced with unique circumstances, we celebrate their milestone, albeit differently this year.This past weekend, we welcomed more than 8,500 of our newest alumni. It was my first UCF commencement, and while it’s unfortunate that we couldn’t be there in
Physicians Actively Scheduling Medical Procedures at HCA Healthcare’s Central Florida Hospitals
Healthcare services expanding as patients now have ability to schedule needed procedures in addition to emergency and inpatient care at Central Florida Regional Hospital, Osceola Regional Medical Center, Oviedo Medical Center and Poinciana Medical Center ~ ORLANDO, Fla. – Upon Gov. Ron DeSantis issuing Executive Order 20-112 on Monday, May 4, physicians are actively scheduling medical procedures at all four of HCA Healthcare’s hospitals in Central Florida. This action expands needed health care for
UCF Forum: The Virus is Not Our Enemy Plotting Against Us
By Katie PhilpUCF Forum columnist Anthropomorphism is the term for our tendency to give human characteristics to animals or non-living things. Many of us might recall it from our high school English classes, but there is a psychological basis for our use of anthropomorphism, as well. It may help us develop empathy with the natural world, reducing loneliness through connections with animal companions, for example. It could also help us better communicate complex issues. Remember not so long ago when
iHeartMedia Orlando Creates Online 'Education Fair'
iHEARTMEDIA's ORLANDO cluster is holding an online college and vocational fair for students. The "Education Fair Education Summit" will be held MAY 14-15 9a-6p (ET), with colleges, tech and trade schools, and other vendors on a custom web page featuring video interviews and transcript reviews by recruiters. "This virtual event is exactly what our community needs right now," said iHEARTMEDIA's CHIANNA RAY. "Many students have not had the chance to visits schools, meet with recruiters and are feeling
Optimism in Housing
Prior to the pandemic, the housing market was booming. Prices were increasing, while inventory was at its lowest level in 40-years. Inventory levels should remain tight because new construction has slowed due to Covid-19. Meanwhile, demand for homeownership has been pent up and those living in apartments are looking for more space and distance. And remember, the biggest driver of home buying is having children. Many expect childbirths to increase over the next year. The homeownership rate has
UCP Food Pantry: Help Needed!
Help UCP of Central Florida’s children and families in need by participating in our food drives to fill up our newly established food pantries. Food items needed: peanut butter, pasta, soup, tuna, crackers, canned vegetables, etc. Baby items needed: diapers (all sizes), wipes, formula, and baby food. Purchase through our Amazon Wish List (bit.ly/UCP-Giving-Tuesday-Now) or donate items directly at Bailes Community Academy (4780 Data Court, Orlando, FL 32817) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from
Orlando Health Launches New Resources to Get Orlando Business Ready
Orlando, FL (May 1, 2020) – In an effort to help the community prepare to reopen, Orlando Health has launched a Business Ready resource website for businesses and organizations as they prepare to resume business. “There is a lot of uncertainty and questions about how to best implement proper hygiene practices for businesses as they prepare to reopen,” said Don Plumley, MD, Chief Quality Officer at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. “Our goal with these resources is to provide our
Seminole County FL - MAY 5 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 5, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 404 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 396 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been eight COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. GIVING
Seminole County FL - MAY 4 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 4, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE AT 2:00PM TODAY May is Mental Health Month; today’s 2:00p.m. press conference will focus on COVID-19 as well as community resources related to mental health :Jay Zembower, Seminole County Board of County Commissioners
Solar Bears To Auction Jerseys To Benefit ECHL Players Beginning May 6
Net proceeds will support ECHL-PHPA COVID-19 Player Relief Fund; Auction pre-registration now open ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears have announced that the club will auction off its game-worn purple jerseys from the 2019-20 season to support the joint efforts of the ECHL and Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) in assisting ECHL players and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. The auction will take place beginning on Wednesday, May 6 at 5 p.m. ET and closes on Saturday, May 16 at
Event Cancellation: Sanford's Memorial Day Festivities
The City of Sanford has made the very difficult decision to cancel the Memorial Day festivities scheduled for Monday, May 25th. The annual events include the largest Memorial Day Parade in the southeast and a moving Remembrance Ceremony at Sanford’s Veterans Memorial Park overlooking Lake Monroe. We thank the Seminole County Area Veterans Advisory Council (SCAVAC) and Ed Burford, the Veterans Services Officer for Seminole County Government, for their year-round effort assisting the City with this event.
On The + Side: Free Workouts, History Lessons and Star Wars Day
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how to enjoy a meal with another generation, discover free bedtime stories and guided meditations, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Seminole County FL - MAY 1 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 1, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 386 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 378 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been eight COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age six months to 100 years. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. DOES
Free Graduating Seniors Gallery
The Orlando Sentinel celebrates the class of 2020. OrlandoSentinel.com is hosting a free online photo gallery for parents of graduating seniors to upload photos and recognize the accomplishments of their high school senior. To participate in this free service, visit: https://www.orlandosentinel.com/paid-posts/?prx_t=S8oFAnvBCArOgPA&&ntv_fpc=8e3b93f5-5bbf-4892-92b9-456eb50ddfee&ntv_n#/gallery?category=2657185 (shorted URL: Senior Photo Gallery ) Keepsake graduation announcements in the Orlando
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Orlando Health Hospitals Add Additional Safety Measures For Patients Undergoing Procedures Or Giving
Reassuring measures reinforce Orlando Health is a safe place to receive care Orlando, FL (April 30, 2020) – As the number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 continues to decline across the Orlando Health network, and officials begin easing elective surgery restrictions, the organization is encouraging patients in need of care for non-coronavirus related conditions to seek treatment. “There is this ongoing and building need to address non-coronavirus medical issues that have not being taken care
Addition Financial Celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week
Lake Mary, Fla. (May 1, 2020) – To thank teachers for their dedication, Addition Financial has donated gift baskets to four local school districts for Teacher Appreciation Week. Founded by Orange County teachers in 1937, Addition Financial has a longstanding tradition of supporting education in Central Florida. As schools have transitioned to distance learning, the credit union wanted to recognize teachers and thank them for their work both in the classroom and virtually. To do so, Addition Financial
April 30 COVID-19 Update And New Social Distance For Reopening Order
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 30, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 378 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 370 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been eight COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. NEW: SOCIAL
Right at Home of Seminole County Recognizes Its Unsung Heroes as Caregivers Provide In-Home Care for Those Most Vulnerable to COVID-19
As hospitals struggle to accommodate an unprecedented influx of patients, the in-home care franchise is providing essential care to the elderly and disabled in the comfort and safety of their homes. Longwood, FL — As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to ravage communities across the world, it is heartening to see people and businesses stepping up to offer their strength and resources to protect the most vulnerable among us. We have no shortage of our own heroes coming to the fore, and of
Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Provides Reemployment Assistance Update - April 28
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) announced that last week, the department paid almost $412 million to Floridians, which is an increase of almost 600% over the prior week. As of April 27, DEO has verified 824,412 unique claims and paid 392,051 claimants a total of more than $523 million. You can see daily reemployment assistance updates on the Reemployment Assistance (RA) Claims Dashboard. NEW UPDATES: · The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
AdventHealth Community Coronavirus Briefing - Week of April 27
With Florida’s statewide stay at home order expiring April 30, Governor DeSantis’ statewide task force will deliver recommendations as early as today on the guidelines for a phased approach to re-open Florida. We are actively involved in these discussions and expect the Governor will allow for regional discretion based on a community’s rate of COVID cases, hospitalization rates, availability of equipment and supplies and testing capabilities. Nothing is more important than ensuring the safety of our
Seminole State To Host Virtual Graduation Ceremony May 20
SANFORD, Fla. (April 29, 2020) – Students graduating from Seminole State College of Florida this spring will have an opportunity to safely celebrate their achievement with family and friends during the College’s virtual graduation ceremony on May 20 at 7 p.m. EST. With the coronavirus pandemic canceling plans for the in-person Spring 2020 Commencement, the College will host graduation online to honor its students. “Our graduates are to be congratulated for their perseverance and for overcoming challenges
Seminole County FL - APRIL 29 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 29, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 373 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 365 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been eight COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. POTENTIAL 4:30PM
UCF Forum: Finding Peace During a Pandemic
By Michele Gregoire GillUCF Forum columnist A friend’s husband is in the hospital due to a heart attack, but the family isn’t allowed to visit. People are losing their jobs. Politics about the severity of COVID-19 has frayed connections between me and some of my relatives. My aunt’s funeral was canceled, and I can’t even hug my mom.How do people cope during these times?I am writing this as a muted Zoom conference window sits on the right side of my monitor. There, in my peripheral vision, are the
A Back to Business Plan for employers before returning to work after the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak.
With all the changes that a person or business encounters after any type of local, national or global scale disaster we ALL need a plan to get back to business! Without it you will feel the impacts long after the event. We are here to help with some important steps and ideas for you to consider so that you can start off on the right path of getting back to your business normal confidently! At SERVPRO we have over 40 years of proven experience educating, empowering and assisting people and businesses in
Joel Greenberg Opening Most Seminole County Locations on Monday
Social distancing rules apply with appointment-only servicesLake Mary, Fla (April 29, 2020) – The wait is over for tax collector services in Seminole County. Starting Monday, Seminole County Tax Collector Joel Greenberg will be reopening five of six branch offices, with the Sanford location reopening with the county administration building.“It is extremely important to get back to normal as soon as possible,” Greenberg says. “While we are being measured in reopening, we can’t wait to serve our residents in
Heathrow Women's Club Charities Donates to Four Local Charities
With the current need of everyone in our community, HWCC is happy to share that we are making a donation to our four chosen charities: The Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida, West Sanford Branch; SafeHouse of Seminole; Seminole County Friends of Abused of Children; and The Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools. During these trying times, our charities need us more than ever. The Heathrow Women's Club, HWC, was founded on August 17, 1987 by a few neighborhood women who gathered as
The Countess Group’s Website Has Your Back
Free Software, Webinar Replays and MoreORLANDO, Fla. — April 29, 2020 – It helps to have a friend in marketing. The Countess Group’s website now has free software, free webinar replays, and more. Ken Countess, managing director, has updated the company’s website to provide more services, free. “In the past month, we’ve uploaded over 30 webinar replays with free access and offered free trials of industry-leading software,” said Countess. “We’re also available for consultations.” “Visit our website at
New York Life and Cigna Announce the Brave of Heart Fund
NEW YORK, April 21, 2020 – New York Life today announced that it has partnered with Cigna to launch, through their foundations, the Brave of Heart Fund. The Fund will provide financial and emotional support to the families of healthcare workers and volunteers nationwide – including doctors, nurses, technicians, orderlies, cafeteria workers, custodians, and others – who lose their lives to COVID-19. The Fund is launching with initial contributions of $25 million each from the New York Life Foundation and
Seminole County FL - APRIL 28 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 28, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 373 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 365 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been eight COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. FACEBOOK LIVE
Seminole County Sheriff's Office - The Dispatcher April 2020
Here are some interesting highlights from the April Edition of The Dispatcher, the monthly newsletter of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. The big stories from this month’s edition include a homegrown reserve deputy who regularly pilots a U-2 Spy Plane, a flyover in salute to our 2020 high school graduates, and a statewide group’s spotlight on our own Sheriff Dennis Lemma. Enjoy and Stay Safe! Given the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, we'd like to take a moment to remind our residents that guidelines
Seminole County Government Business Advisory
The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management continues to prepare for the reopening of area businesses. County plans will be informed by direction from Governor DeSantis and his Reopen Florida Task Force, which is anticipated as early as Wednesday, April 29, 2020. In preparation for reopening announcements, area businesses should be aware of the current Executive Orders issued by the Governor along with advice from Seminole County’s Medical Director and the Florida Department of Health-Seminole
Seminole County FL - APRIL 27 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 27, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. MEDIA AVAILABILITY & PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY9:00-9:30a.m., Media Availability at Test Site, 451 East Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Springs Speakers include: Alan Harris, Seminole County Emergency ManagerDonna Walsh, Florida
Sen. Rick Scott Outlines Strategies to Get Florida Back to Work
As I’m sure you and your members are aware, the next allotment of Paycheck Protection Program funding went live this morning at 10:30am EST. We encourage any applicant to continue working with their lender to process their applications. As a reminder, AT THIS LINK, you can find approved bank- and non-bank lenders for PPP loans, and AT THIS LINK you can find and update FAQ released yesterday by SBA. Additionally below is Sen. Scott’s “Let’s Get Back to Work” plan outlining the roles and
On The + Side: Milk Money, Soap Squats and Video Tributes
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how to send healthcare workers a cup of coffee, discover fun Crayola craft projects, experience Story Time from Space, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
HCA Healthcare North Florida Division Hospitals Join Convalescent Plasma Study for COVID-19 Patients
~ Hospitals promote need for plasma donations from recovered COVID-19 individuals to potentially help critically ill patients ~ TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – HCA Healthcare North Florida Division Hospitals from the panhandle to Central Florida announced today that they are participating in a national study to determine if plasma from convalescent, or recovered, COVID-19 patients may benefit individuals currently hospitalized with severe or life-threatening cases of the virus. People who tested positive for COVID-19
COVID-19 Virtual Assistant Available Free To Everyone On Florida Blue Websites
Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced it is offering a dedicated COVID-19 virtual assistant on its public websites at www.FloridaBlue.com and www.FloridaBlue.com/COVID19, free and available to anyone. The assessment function of the new virtual assistant pops up automatically on the websites, and guides users through educational content or through a series of questions to check for COVID-19 symptoms and related risk factors. Based on the assessment results, the tool directs users to
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Publication Of A New Political Sci Fi Adventure Series
Sanford, Florida: Harry Parkhurst, president of The Cranefeather Society, known for his singing introductions is also an author. He announces the publication of his new novel in Amazon Kindle. This first novel in the Warrior King series is entitled “Return of the Sword”. A political sci fi novel, it is available both in ebook and paperback form and listed as H.F. Parkhurst, author. A crippled young man finally finds his true love, only to have her kidnapped by a savage race of fanatic barbaric
AdventHealth COVID Briefing - April 25, 2020
With Florida’s statewide stay at home order expiring April 30, Governor DeSantis’ statewide task force will deliver recommendations next week on the guidelines for a phased approach to re-open Florida. We are actively involved in these discussions and expect the Governor will allow for regional discretion based on a community’s rate of COVID cases, hospitalization rates, availability of equipment and supplies and testing capabilities. Nothing is more important than ensuring the safety of our team
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Free Insurance Policy Review
Do you own a small business that has been affected by COVID-19 closures? Give us a call, and we will review your insurance policy (free of charge) to determine if you have coverage. Consulting with a litigation expert can help you fully understand any policies and contracts you may be dealing with at this time. Call (407) 636-7004 to speak with one of our experienced attorneys.
Stephanie Fuller joins Veritas Recruiting Group as Staffing Manager
APRIL 24, 2020, LAKE MARY, FL: Veritas Recruiting Group is proud to announce that Stephanie Fuller has joined our temporary staffing team as Staffing Manager. Stephanie joins Veritas with a strong service background in Staffing, Banking, and Hospitality. She is well connected throughout the region and is raising her family here in Seminole County with her kids attending SCPS. Stephanie's focus is on building relationships with hiring managers at companies throughout Seminole County and assisting them
Nemours Children’s Health System wants to help you keep children and families healthy.
Please help us keep your community safe and informed by sharing this email and posting the flyer (available in English and Spanish via the link) to your website and social platforms. ww2.nemours.org/covid19info Caregivers can be helpful to children, if they are prepared. Fear about coronavirus (COVID-19) can cause scary feelings in adults and children. Here's how you can calm your family. USE THE 3 C’s CAREHelp your child stay healthy. Teach them to use their “germ buster” powers:
Seminole County FL - APRIL 24 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 24, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 345 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 338 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been eight COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. DRIVE THRU TESTING
Academy of Excellence Students Share Their Smiles and Gratefulness
Preschool students say "Thank You" to the community in a unique way Sanford, Florida: Academy of Excellence has a student body that is spreading their smiles across the screen to their teachers and beyond. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Academy of Excellence has had to close their school, but are offering limited services via online distance learning free of charge."We wanted to keep our staff intact and at the same time maintain a connection with all our families, so online schooling is the most natural way
CareerSource Central Florida Offers More Access to Jobs and Innovative Talent Solutions Amid Pandemic
Orlando, Fla., April 23, 2020 – With COVID-19 pandemic still impacting global and local communities, CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) is helping career seekers and businesses even more, including a $1M investment earmarked for temporary, paid internships for displaced workers, businesses and select non-profit organizations. CSCF is providing current job listings, virtual job fairs, applicant screening and candidate referrals and has also launched new virtual workshops and an e-learning program to provide
Seminole County FL - APRIL 23 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 23, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 335 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 327 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been seven COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. TODAY: PRESS
Hearts Hands And Hope Delivers More Than 15,000 Meals During Covid-19 Crisis
Consider Donating to Hearts, Hands and Hope During #GivingTuesdayNow on May 5th (Lake Mary, Florida) Hearts, Hands and Hope is answering the call of need in the community by feeding hungry children. The organization is delivering thousands of meals every week to children in Seminole County who are not receiving food support due to school closures. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, they have distributed more than 15 thousand meals, and will continue to provide support for weeks ahead. “The
First month free
The Countess Group offers customer relationship tools free, and then at pricing not available anywhere else ORLANDO, Fla. — April 22, 2020 – With coronavirus preventing businesses from interacting with customers in person for the foreseeable future, it’s even more important to creatively stay in touch with clients. Why? Because now more than ever, so many people have more time to do web searches - which will help them find you, but also your competitors. They may not have thought of alternatives
Orlando Sentinel Offers Free Webinar Series: ''Navigating Your Business Through Covid-19''
Almost every business has been affected by the Coronavirus and is dealing with some type of change to a varying degree. Communication is key to ensure your customers are aware of any changes in your schedule and product offerings. However, this is just the first step in things you need to – and can do – to maximize your potential. In our three-part series, we’ll help you navigate your business THROUGH Covid-19. From logistical action items, to creative, out of the box ideas, we’ll give you the tools you
Preparing Your Business for the Post-crisis World Discussions Kick Off Next Week
Tech Rage IT brings experts together to help in all facets of preparing businesses for the next stageWinter Springs, Fla., April 22, 2020 – Where will your business be when your community reopens? Are you ready?Will you race to the front – or stumble out of the gate?What are you doing today to prepare for a great tomorrow?Matt Rose, director of technology services for Tech Rage IT has put together a group of experts to help businesses be ready. The series of discussions with leading experts will help you
Seminole County FL - April 22 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 22, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 335 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 327 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been six COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 16.6% INCREASE IN
A Letter of Comfort for New Leaders in Time of Disruption
Rise and Shine CF understands that for new leaders this can be a very challenging time of your new leadership role. If you have not led through change, have not engaged in communication training, have not experienced a leader’s personality assessment you will find this letter comforting. Leading through disruption is similar to flying through turbulence. You know this will pass, you just don’t know the duration of the turbulence. It is during this turbulence that individuals look to their leader. You
ACE Human Resources Welcomes Jordyn Spina to the Team!
Last week, ACE Human Resources proudly announced Jordyn Spina joining the team as their first HR Advocate. Jordyn brings her background with a degree in Business Information Management and her passion for others to succeed through organizational structure to small businesses. As a HR Advocate, Jordyn will be educating the small business community about the benefits of instilling workplace accountability, while maintaining an engaged workforce utilizing ACE Human Resources service offerings. When asked why
There's Still Time to Join the Movement!
View WFTV’s Forever Families segment re: the MANicure Movement® While April 2020 will always be remembered for stay at home orders amidst COVID-19, we don’t want to lose sight of the fact that April is also National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Like the Coronavirus, child abuse is a critical health concern that threatens the lives and well-being of an especially vulnerable population. However, unlike Coronavirus, there is no vaccine we can develop to protect our children from the threat of abuse. The only
Seminole County FL - April 21 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 21, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 328 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 320 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been five COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. MEDIA AVAILABILTY AT
Supporting Our Community In A Time Of Need
The strength of our Cast and community continues to touch all of us, as everyone navigates this incredibly challenging time. With so many of our friends, family and neighbors remaining courageous, we are inspired to continue our giving spirit which is such a part of our Disney culture. At the start of our temporary closure, we began regular deliveries of unused food to Second Harvest Food Back of Central Florida, which to date have totaled more than 646,000 pounds of food to provide 538,600 meals for
Keeping Music Class Alive for Kids at Home
Too much screen time has often been linked with behavioral issues, sleep problems and obesity in children long-term. Unfortunately, screen time has surged during the COVID-19 pandemic according to news reports, with children ages 6–12 spending at least 50% more time in front of screens every day. For parents already struggling to set a limit on screen time when their kids were in school, this presents a challenge. If you’ve run out of ideas to engage children while in quarantine – without resorting to
LegalShield Business Solutions Covid-19 Services Overview
LegalShield Business Solutions Covid-19 Services Overview Daily Join us everyday at 1:00PM Small Business Overview on our Small Business Plans. Small business has big business problems - without big business resources. We give companies like yours big business resources on a small business budget. 1. Learn how we can help you get answers to the Legal questions about Covid-19 and your business 2. Questions about your employees 3. Affordable access to the right information Join us
5 Cybersecurity Tips To Help Minimize Your Risk Online
Emily Hollingshead, Seminole State College In this digital age, it is nearly impossible not to be connected someway to the Internet. While there are those who would use their computer knowledge to take advantage of you, with everything from the recent “Zoombombing” to the seemingly ubiquitous phishing scams, you can help protect yourself through some digital sense and a healthy dose of skepticism.Keep track of your informationPersonal data such as logins, passwords, birthdays, addresses etc. are all
Seminole County FL - APRIL 20 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 20, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 326 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 318 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been five COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE MOVED
On The + Side: Couch Concerts, Moments of Zen and Setting Boundaries
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about moments of zen at the Key West Aquarium, how to set boundaries when working from home, and how to watch orchestra concerts from the comfort of your own couch. To read the latest edition, click here.
UCF Forum: Somehow, Amid the Coronavirus Chaos There Can Be Peace
By Lillian M. Hernández CaraballoUCF Forum columnist Crisis has become the overriding trait of the year 2020. After rumors of war, an impeachment trial, huge wildfires and devastating earthquakes, we now live in the new world of COVID-19. No one shakes hands anymore, wearing a mask and gloves to the bank is normal, and the lucky ones get to work and learn in their pajamas from the comfort of their own homes. Not all is trivial, of course; some things have been truly heartbreaking. Italy is letting its
Surety Bank Brings The Big Red Bus to Lake Mary for Blood Donations
Sign up online & join us Friday, April 24 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.! Lake Mary, FL. – With hospitals desperately calling for blood lately, Surety Bank in Lake Mary is bringing the Big Red Bus to our office. We urge the community to join us to donate blood. The Big Red Bus will be at our Lake Mary Branch located at 3001 West Lake Mary Blvd. Please join us Friday April 24 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Because of social distancing , all donors must make an appointment by visiting
IBERIABANK Pledges $500000 to Local Food Banks
Orlando, FL - IBERIABANK (www.iberiabank.com), the 133-year-old subsidiary of IBERIABANK Corporation, is pledging $500,000 to local food banks. The COVID-19 health care crisis has created hardships for many individuals and families across the country. The loss of jobs, reduction in compensation, and inability to send children to school or daycare have created a growing need to provide access to food in our communities. To help address this pressing issue, we are pleased to
Seminole County Sunset Rotary Joins Volunteer Surge Initiative
Clubs in our Zones are leading an extraordinary new effort, and your immediate participation is critical to its success. This program was announced Monday April 6 via a press release (CNN, NYT, and other major coverage), and will be adopted by Rotary Clubs across the nation in the next few days. TIME IS CRITICAL Please click HERE to learn more and decide how you, your friends and family can participate. The full press release is below and additional collateral can be found
Seminole County FL - APRIL 19 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 19, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 322 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 314 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been four COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. INCREASE IN 9-1-1
If You Are Working from Home Avoid These 6 Phone Call Mistakes
by Rosalyn Gist Porter, Business Communications Coach, Better Speaking Skills The phone rings. It’s not your best friend, your sister or your mother. It’s not a social call. It’s work-related. How can you sound professional when you’re standing in your pajamas or sitting in yoga pants? Working from home is no longer a choice since the coronavirus closed many workplaces. But you can choose how you present yourself when you answer a business call or call a client, co-worker, or your boss. No one cares if
SENATOR RICK SCOTT’S “LET’S GET BACK TO WORK” PLAN:
THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD IMPLEMENT THE FOLLOWING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:Do whatever is possible to support and fund research and expedited development of a vaccine.Develop a detailed plan, in coordination with state and local governments, to make this vaccine available nationwide and free to all Americans.Promote and fund efforts by state and local governments and the private sector to continue expanding testing capacity, including monoclonal antibody testing, and contact tracing without violating
MouseMail special edition: Sending hope to our community
The strength of our cast and community continues to touch all of us, as everyone navigates this incredibly challenging time. With so many of our friends, family and neighbors remaining courageous, we are inspired to continue our giving spirit which is such a part of our Disney culture. At the start of our temporary closure, we began regular deliveries of unused food to Second Harvest Food Back of Central Florida, which to date have totaled more than 646,000 pounds of food to provide 538,600 meals for
AdventHealth COVID Update - April 17
During the past weeks we have seen the power of the human spirit within our community and across the globe. Our teams are inspired by this spirit and are grateful to have your support. This week we launched a new commercial, Healing Spirit, that pays tribute to our caregivers and our community for the remarkable efforts to serve and support each other in the face of this global pandemic. Below are additional insights on the latest COVID-19 information, and details on our preparedness and response
New CareerSource Services Available for You!
CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) is committed to serving you during this unprecedented time. We are here to help support career seekers, businesses and community partners in navigating the impact of the COVID-19 crisis to the workforce industry and to our community. CSCF has continued virtual services in order to keep staff and customers safe. It seems prudent at this time to extend the date that we are providing virtual services until at least Friday,May 1. We will continue to follow the state and local
AdventHealth to open drive-up COVID-19 testing in Sanford
SANFORD, Fla., April 17, 2020 — Registration is now open for AdventHealth’s third community COVID-19 drive-up testing location in Central Florida, which opens Tuesday at the Seminole Towne Center mall in Sanford. “AdventHealth has been taking aggressive steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and these testing sites are just one of the ways we’re investing and helping safeguard our community,” said Tim Cook, CEO of AdventHealth Altamonte Springs. “Making it easy for Seminole County residents to get
Allow us to introduce you to...
The U.S. Chamber's “Path Forward” program—an initiative announced earlier this week to address how Americans and businesses can return to work safely, successfully, and sustainably. The initiative includes both a program series of broadcasts featuring conversations led by U.S. Chamber president Suzanne Clark with insights from cross-industry experts, and a comprehensive framework of considerations for implementing a National Return to Work Plan detailed across three different
Seminole County FL - APRIL 17 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 17, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 313 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 306 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been three COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. FACEBOOK LIVE CHAT
Traffic up 17,000% in one month
Webinar replays trigger the growth ORLANDO, Fla. — April 16, 2020 – If you’re looking for an easy way to learn how to market your business, but you find it hard to attend live webinars, replays are a great resource. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, says: “Our daily webinars are attracting a loyal following. And for those who can’t attend them live or who want to see them again, they’re posted on our website.” “Our web traffic has increased over 17,000% in the last month,”
Addition Financial Celebrates Class of 2020 Graduates with #AddGrads Campaign
Lake Mary, Fla. (March 25, 2020) – Addition Financial was founded with education and learning at its core. We would like to do our part for this year's graduating class of high school and college seniors as they take these big steps toward their futures.We are putting together a video congratulating these amazing students, but we need some help! You can participate by sending in pictures and videos of you or your graduate for a chance to be included in the video. Don't be afraid to get creative!To send us
Seminole County FL - April 15 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 15, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 282 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 275 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been two COVID-19 deaths in the County. The County’s confirmed cases range from age one to 100. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. BOAT RAMPS REOPEN
Goodwill Remains Committed To Job Training, Placement Services Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
ORLANDO, Fla. (April 7, 2020) – Goodwill Industries of Central Florida remains committed to serving local residents with job training and job placement programs, and has transitioned its Job Connection Center online in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Job-seekers in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake, Brevard and Volusia counties will still have access to the same services formerly available in-person at Goodwill’s 11 Job Connection Centers. “COVID-19 disproportionately impacts those with limited resources
Replay: Update on Federal COVID-19 Employment and Business Programs
The Seminole County Chamber and Apopka Area Chamber of Commerce heard from Deborah La Fleur and Chris Dawson from GrayRobinson discuss new information regarding labor laws and an update on FFCRA and the CARES Act. Watch the full replay on our YouTube Channel here.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Launches Fund with Vistaprint to Support Small Business Recovery
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, with founding partner Vistaprint, has launched the Save Small Business Fund, a grant program to provide assistance to small businesses owners impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Funded by contributions from corporate and philanthropic partners, the Foundation will distribute $5,000 grants to small employers in economically vulnerable communities in the United States and its territories. “Small business owners are facing unprecedented
What Does Forbearance Really Mean?
The Covid-19 Coronavirus has led to some challenging times for all of us. The Government has created the CARES Act to assist homeowners whose income may have been adversely impacted by the coronavirus. One of the components of the CARES Act is the possibility of mortgage forbearance. Forbearance is often misinterpreted. Many people are mistakenly thinking that forbearance equals forgiveness. It does not. This is truly intended as temporarily relief for those who need it most. Forbearance means
Einstein Advisors is Hiring!
Einstein Advisors is currently seeking applicants for a special opportunity. At a time when so many companies are facing uncertainty – or worse – our business is experiencing a surge in both prospects and clients. We are looking for a few good people to take on the challenges, and reap the rewards, of a full or part-time career in Life and Health Insurance. ____________________________________________ Maybe you’ve never considered a career in Insurance sales, but it can be a very lucrative and
The National Trial Lawyers Announces Kevin Ross-Andino as One of Its Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers in Florida
The National Trial Lawyers is pleased to announce that Kevin Ross-Andino of éclat Law LLP in Altamonte Springs has been selected for inclusion into its Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers in Florida, an honor given to only a select group of lawyers for their superior skills and qualifications in the field. Membership in this exclusive organization is by invitation only and is limited to the top 100 attorneys in each state or region who have demonstrated excellence and have achieved outstanding
Watch the US Chamber Zoom
On March 31, the Seminole County Chamber and the Apopka Area Chamber of Commerce were treated to a great Zoom meeting with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the organization on the front lines to protect businesses in Washington, D.C. Moore Hallmark, Executive Director for the Southeast Region of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, was the guest speaker, updating our members on the recently signed law - The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act - which allocated $350 billion to help small
Learn How To Maximize Your Chamber Membership
While the Seminole County Chamber is well known for its events, bringing thousands of people together throughout the year, there are dozens of other ways businesses can use the chamber without leaving their house. In today's economy, it's critical you take advantage of ever member benefit you can. For instance: You can announce an online event to build more attendees. You can strengthen you member profile to help your company's SEO. You can announce a new service or a recent award. There is so much
AdventHealth to open drive-up COVID-19 testing at Mall at Millenia
AdventHealth has tested more than 11,500 people at its hospitals and Centra Care urgent care facilities in Florida. ORLANDO, Fla., April 14, 2020 — AdventHealth will open a second COVID-19 drive-up testing location in Central Florida on Wednesday at the Mall at Millenia. The testing site is the latest investment by AdventHealth to help identify and control the spread of COVID-19 in Florida. The organization has tested more than 11,500 people in its hospitals and Centra Care urgent care facilities —
Young Living/Recovered by Oils Announces New Class: Dealing with Negative Emotions
Laurie Harrington Young Living/Recovered by Oils 407-927-4393 recoveredbyoils@gmail.com Dealing with Negative Emotions?Worry, insomnia, Depression, Anxiety…is this your new normal? [Oviedo, Florida]: Young Living/Recovered by Oils, today announced their timely new class, “Dealing with Negative Emotions”. With Social Distancing and the Stay-at-home order ruling our lives emotions can be difficult and even scary. It is so much easier to suppress emotions than to recognize, feel, and process them.
Seminole County FL - April 14 COVID 19 Update, press conference
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 13, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 268 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 262 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been two COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE AT 2:00PM Today’s press conference will be held at 2:00p.m.
On The + Side: Car Parades, Book Clubs and Connecting From Afar
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how the community is supporting health care workers and first responders, listen to classic stories read by some of your favorite celebrities, and discover virtual tours in Orlando and beyond. To read the
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction starts $10M Norton Commons Apartments in Sanford
For Immediate Release April 11, 2020 Contact: Ken Cristol, Cristol Marketing Company, 407-774-2515 (Authorized agency for Roger B. Kennedy Construction)SANFORD, Fla. (April 11, 2020) — Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction broke ground for the new Norton Commons apartment community in Sanford, under a contract totaling approximately $10 million. Developed by an affiliate of Wendover Housing Partners, Altamonte Springs, the three-story, 68-unit project is located at 2580 Ridgewood Avenue
You Can Help Hearts Hands And Hope Feed Hungry Children During Covid-19 Crisis
(Lake Mary, Florida) Over the past few weeks, we at Hearts, Hands and Hope have had a huge increase in the number of calls we receive. Heartbreaking calls from families with children desperately seeking help, and it's only going to get worse. Hearts, Hands and Hope is feeding the hungry children in Seminole County during the COVID-19 crisis. We are delivering thousands of meals every week to children who are not receiving food support due to school closures. The children we’re helping can’t get to free
Frankie Ellitot from Orlando Regional REALTOR Association to discuss COVID issues for REALTORS
On April 10, the Seminole County Chamber hosted Frankie Elliott, Vice President of Government Affairs and Foundation Relations at Orlando Regional REALTOR Association, held a discussion with the Issues Committee. The committee meeting delivered great information on initiatives the association is working on in Washington and Tallahassee to ensure the real estate industry continues to be strong and REALTORS are protected as other workers in the country. To watch the full video, please visit our YouTube
This Week's Regional Perspective | April 10, 2020
This week’s regional perspective is focused on the current global effort to flatten the curve and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the Orlando region. Our online COVID-19 Business Resource Center can be found at Orlando.org/covid19. 1. Acceleration and adaptation – Take a moment to go back in time, seemingly years ago, to a world far different from the one we’re in today. While it may feel like a long time ago, back in February 2020, just two months ago, leaders in the Orlando region gathered to discuss
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Orlando Health Now Accepting Homemade Mask Donations
At Orlando Health, we are closely monitoring and managing our supply levels as the health and safety of our team members, patients and overall community remains our focus. To diversify our resources, and to allow a more comfortable mask option for non-clinical situations, we are now accepting homemade masks. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not consider the homemade masks a substitute for surgical masks or N-95 respirators, cloth masks may slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus
New COVID-19 Guides and Invitations from the U.S. Chamber
New COVID-19 Guides from the U.S. ChamberCoronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide and ChecklistThe U.S. Chamber's Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide and Checklist serves as a comprehensive step-by-step tool to help small businesses, independent contractors, gig economy workers and other qualifying individuals prepare to file for a coronavirus relief loan under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The guide is also available for download in
AdventHealth Community COVID-19 Briefing - April 10
At AdventHealth, our 150-year-old mission to Extend the Healing Ministry of Christ is always at the center of what we do. As communities across the globe celebrate Passover, Easter and call on faith and hope to weather this storm, we want to continue being a place of healing - body, mind and spirit - to those in need. Below are insights on the latest COVID-19 information, and details on our preparedness and response efforts.Keeping You SafeTo quickly identify and reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Florida,
SCPS To Offer Lunch & Learn Facebook Live Sessions
(SANFORD, FL) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) will be offering a series of Lunch & Learn Facebook-Live Sessions every Tuesday and Friday, from 12:30 -1:00 p.m., beginning on Tuesday, April 14, 2020 on the district’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SeminoleCountySchools. The sessions will feature SCPS Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin and several district leaders covering a variety of topics such as mental health, student support, and remote learning assistance. Families are encouraged to submit
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Orlando Health Infuses First Covid-19 Patient With Convalescent Plasma
Health system encourages individuals who’ve recovered from the virus to donate blood Orlando, FL (April 10, 2020) – Doctors at Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center infused their first COVID-19 patient with convalescent plasma Wednesday, April 8. Fifty-two-year-old Michael “Kevin” Rathal received the investigational therapy around midnight; a mere 12 hours after compatible blood was donated. “Normally, getting plasma requires going through a long process because it’s investigational,”
Seminole State Loans Medical Supplies To Hospitals For Covid-19 Response
SANFORD, Fla. (April 9, 2020) - Seminole State College of Florida is helping Central Florida hospitals deal with the COVID-19 pandemic by loaning essential supplies to local hospitals. The College’s Respiratory Care program loaned 10 ventilators from the respiratory care lab at the Altamonte Springs Campus to Orlando Health. Seminole State’s Allied Health, Nursing, and Public Safety departments sent 800 masks to Advent Health’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team. Advent Health will replace the masks
GuideWell Launches $125,000 COVID-19 Health Innovation Collaborative
ORLANDO, Fla. – April 9, 2020 – GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (GuideWell), the parent to a family of forward-thinking companies focused on transforming health care, announced its COVID-19 Health Innovation Collaborative, an initiative that seeks to connect diverse innovative health-technology companies across the U.S. to bring forth solutions that address gaps in response to global health pandemics. “At GuideWell, we believe it takes a village to support people and communities to achieve better
Guest Column: The Value of College by Dr. Georgia Lorenz
High school seniors and their families are faced with a lot of confusing and often negative messages about attending college these days. Messages like, “You don’t need college to earn a good salary” and “The amount of student debt you may incur to get a degree just isn’t worth it.” It is true that you can earn a decent salary without earning a bachelor’s degree. However, the difference in lifetime earnings between a person with a postsecondary credential (whether a certificate, associate, bachelor’s
SCPS Class Of 2020 Graduation & Dance Plans
(SANFORD, FL) – Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) has announced plans to honor and recognize our Senior Class of 2020 and keep their cherished festivities intact. Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin has been working with each of the SCPS Senior Class Presidents by holding WebEx conference call meetings for three consecutive weeks to brainstorm ideas and garner feedback from each school’s student body in an effort to develop a viable Prom & Graduation replacement. Graduation Plan #1 *(provided social
Florida Blue Contributes 300,000 Meals to Central Floridians through Second Harvest Food Bank
ORLANDO, Fla. (April 7, 2020) – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, is contributing 300,000 meals to assist Central Floridians struggling due to the COVID-19 health crisis. The contribution to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is part of a $2 million initial investment Florida Blue is making to address urgent health and safety needs across the state as a result of the crisis. “Florida Blue is collaborating with leaders and organizations across Central Florida to address critical
Creating a Positive Learning Space for your Child at Home
By Savanna Weis, MS, Teacher at Seminole Science Charter School As we continue to quarantine ourselves during the COVID-19 crisis, becoming your child’s stand-in “teacher” may seem near impossible. Between the distraction of the TV, video games and other siblings – not to mention parents trying to do their own work – at home learning can be overwhelming. One great way to get your child focused in the morning is to create a physical space they can work from each day, just like you may have created for
To Our UCF Family
Saying goodbye isn’t easy, especially to the people and a place we have grown to love dearly over the past year.Leading UCF has been the greatest honor of our lives. The reason isn’t because of the many accomplishments we’ve celebrated together. It’s because of you — the students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends who make this institution so remarkable.We know we’ve been through some tough challenges, and the difficulties we’re now facing with COVID-19 have brought uncertainties and stress for our
Seminole State's Center For Business Development Helping Small Businesses Navigate Resources
Seminole State College of Florida's Center for Business Development is supporting the Seminole County business community by ensuring companies understand the various loan programs available to them through the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that includes $367 billion in low-interest SBA loans. In partnership with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and the Florida Small Business Development Center (FSBDC) network,
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ Iconic Entrance Artwork Slated for Removal
SANFORD, Fla., April 9, 2020—As part of Phase III of the City of Sanford’s RiverWalk Project, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ iconic entrance artwork will be removed this week. The two concrete structures flanking the Zoo’s entrance road will be dismantled to make way for the next phase of the RiverWalk construction project, which will include roadway improvements and construction of the trail. In 2009, the illuminated front entrance artwork was completed by former Zoo primate keeper and
Seminole County FL - APRIL 9 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 9, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 230 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 224 of which are Seminole County residents; there has been one COVID-19 death in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. TWO COUNTY BOAT RAMPS TO REOPEN On Saturday, April 4, 2020, Seminole County
On The + Side: Sea Otters, Scientists and Keeping the Peace
As we adjust to our new routines and way of living, it’s always important to find reasons to smile. In our On The + Side series, our goal is to share the uplifting news and resources that can bring our community together during this time of uncertainty.Positive Focus Keeping up with the news can feel emotionally taxing these days, so we’re here to highlight some of the individuals and businesses that have inspired us this week. Read more at the On The + Side website!
Nominate Your Hero in Walk On Water's Who's Your Hero Promotion
Walk On Water is accepting nominations for "Who's Your Hero" promotion. Feel free to nominate someone who is working to keep our country going during the quarantine. The HERO will win a $50 Gift Card to WOW. You can see our Facebook page for the past winners. Feel free to call 407.805.0477 to reach Roxane Mann/ Owner. "IMPORTANT"We are also collecting NOTES OF ENCOURAGEMENT for our doctors and nurses. BRING THEM TO WALK ON WATER OR MAIL THEM TOROXANE MANN620 ESTATES PL.LONGWOOD, FL. 32779WE HAVE A BASKET
The Countess Group Gets Businesses Back In Touch With Their Clients
Despite the economic downturn, businesses are growing again ORLANDO, Fla. — April 8, 2020 – Many businesses are having a tough time figuring out how to manage through the current downturn. Answering the call from businesses looking to see how they can keep their businesses alive, The Countess Group’s daily free webinars are providing real solutions. And these businesses are enjoying the success. Ken Countess, managing director, offers the webinars every day - 7 days a week - at 11:30 a.m. Eastern
Panera Bread Offering Contactless Ordering and New Grocery Options To Stay Safer At Home
ORLANDO, FL (April 6, 2020) – As more families stay in together in these unprecedented times, Panera wants to help remove the stress around meal times and make it easier to get good, wholesome food at home with a new Drive-Up Ordering and Grocery program. With some grocery items being in high demand and scarcity, Panera is now offering many grocery items to meet customers’ grocery needs from milk and bread to fresh produce. There is a quantity maximum per item to ensure these items are available to as
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The Big Red Bus at Orlando Health
COVID-19 has dramatically impacted blood supply across the state. OneBlood needs donations to help supply area hospitals. Consider giving the gift of life and be rewarded with a $20 e-gift card for your donation. The Big Red Bus will be at Orlando Health Emergency Room and Medical Pavilion – Lake Mary on Thursday, April 9 from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome throughout the day or you can book an appointment online at www.oneblood.org.
Help Show Our Kids “You Are Not Alone” during This Time Of COVID-19
Like all of us, teens and young adults in foster care are experiencing isolation and uncertainty during this time of stay-at-home orders and social separation. But unlike many of us, they do not have the same support network of family, neighbors and colleagues available to borrow an extra roll of toilet paper or to connect with through daily zoom meetings or virtual game nights. Click video below to hear how Morgan Donovan, our youth navigator who works closely with this young adult population, describes
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Duke Energy Florida Takes Action To Reduce Residential Customer Bills By Nearly 21% In May During The COVID-19 Pandemic
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida today filed a plan to significantly reduce customers’ bills for the May 2020 billing cycle, providing much-needed relief to customers during the COVID-19 pandemic.To help residential and business customers now, the company is requesting approval from the Florida Public Service Commission to offer immediate assistance during this crisis by giving the annual fuel savings in a single bill.Traditionally, these fuel savings would be refunded over the following year.“We
Coronavirus: What Does It Really Mean to Flatten the Curve?
If you’ve been working from home or only leaving the house for essential trips because of coronavirus, you likely know what social distancing is. On Monday, March 16, 2020, the White House released “The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 Days to Slow the Spread,” which implemented social distancing at all levels of society to slow the spread of coronavirus. These guidelines are designed to flatten the curve. This term has been mentioned a lot in the news lately, and it’s more than a
Florida Blue Contributes $70,000 To Provide Meals To Seniors In Central Florida
ORLANDO, Fla. (April 3, 2020) – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced it is contributing $70,000 to help provide meals to seniors in Central Florida during the COVID-19 health crisis. The gift is part of a $2 million initial investment Florida Blue is making to address urgent health and safety needs across the state as a result of the COVID-19 health crisis. The gift will support the work of Seniors First, Inc. in Orange County, the Osceola Council on Aging and the Council on Aging
AT&T Expands Support for Customers Amid COVID-19
24/7 Online Support Tools and Additional Resources In Place for Curbside Pick-Ups, Doorstep Deliveries & Robocall ProtectionNearly 500 Hours of Premium Content Available for Free on HBO NOW and HBO GOAT&T Makes $5.5 Million Commitment to Feed First Responders; Free Smartphones for Life to First Responder Public Safety AgenciesAT&T* is investing in additional resources to enhance wireless, broadband and video customer experiences as well as feed and support our first responders and public safety agencies.The
Goodwill Modifies Drop-off Protocol, Encourages Donors To Hold Donations
ORLANDO, Fla. (April 3, 2020) – Due to limited hours and staffing, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida is encouraging donors to hold donations until the stores return to normal operating hours. For those who would still like to donate items in the interim, the nonprofit has modified its donation drop-off protocol and is currently accepting items only at its Donation Xpress locations from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Large items and truck-load donations will only be accepted at the Taft-Vineland
Department of Economic Opportunity Provides Paper Reemployment Application during COVID-19
CareerSource Central Florida supports the Department of Economic Opportunity, the state's Reemployment Assistance workforce system, during this critical time. Please share the following message within your communication channels in an effort to assist Floridians facing unemployment due to COVID-19. If you are a Floridian who is faced with unemployment due to COVID-19, there are financial resources in place to assist you. It is the goal of CareerSource Central Florida to support the state’s Reemployment
Seminole County FL - April 6 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 6, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 196 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 190 of which are Seminole County residents; there has been one COVID-19 death in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE AT 2:00PM Today’s press conference will include: • Jay
Travel For Care Program Helps Kids With Cancer
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, ALSF has established a temporary fund to assist families. This temporary assistance program will be open through 5/1/2020, and if approved provide one-time grocery assistance of $300 to childhood cancer families with financial need. The application can be accessed by healthcare professionals only through our secure portal. The mission of ALSF’s Travel For Care program is to ensure children battling childhood cancer have the financial assistance needed to travel to
Easter Cookie Kits
Easter cookie kits with FREE Seminole county delivery. $25, 12 vanilla Easter cookie, 3 cups sprinkles, and 3 bags of icing (white, yellow, &orange). $5 For an additional set of icing colors (purple, pink, & green) Please send us an email to place an order, order cut off is Thursday at 8PM. Deliveries (FREE for Seminole County) go out Saturday morning,shipping is an additional $15. Tune in on Sunday at 1PM for an instructed class by Miss V.
LegalShield Rolls Out New Coronavirus LegalResource Center
LegalShield rolls out our New Coronavirus LegalResource Center. https://ls-info.com/res/10983/1406?source=web This site will be updated daily with information for Families, Individuals, & Business Owners. WE ARE HERE & WE CARE!! We are open and here 24/7 to help through our mobile apps. Anywhere you have your phone, you have your law firm. No stressing, no guessing! Get all your questions asked & answers without worrying about the high hourly cost.
Covid-19 Resources for Florida Small Business Owners
Here are some great resources available to small business owners in Florida.SBA Disaster AssistanceThe U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is now providing up to $2 million in low-interest Disaster Loans in designated states and territories for business impacted by COVID-19. The loans are available for economic injury caused by COVID-19. Small businesses can use loan proceeds to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. Eligible uses include paying fixed debts, payroll,
Seminole County FL - APRIL 2 COVID-19
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 2, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 144 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 138 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been no COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PUBLIC ASSEMBLY SOCIAL DISTANCE ORDER ENACTED Seminole County enacted a Public
Tint World® to Host Virtual Car Show for Orlando's Car Community
Tint World® Longwood, the Orlando area’s leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, invites Orlando-area auto enthusiasts to safely connect with up to 300 other fellow car lovers this weekend at an online event created to keep the local car scene running during a period of social distancing and stay-at-home mandates. “Orlando has a huge car scene,” said Tint World® Longwood owner Pete Muller. “You can typically find a car show every day of the week. For many people, it’s an important part of
Complimentary Virtual Training To Help Sales Teams Plan For Success
ORLANDO, Fla., March 27, 2020- Bill and Paula Reidy of Sandler Training in Orlando want to help you and your team plan for success during this challenging time. We invite you to attend our Complimentary Webinars designed for Salespeople and Business Leaders. April 8: "Remote Selling: Winning Strategies"Time: 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM Remote Selling: Winning Strategies – During this session, we’ll cover best practices on how to communicate with your prospects and customers virtually, to effectively move
