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 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 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
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
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
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,
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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:
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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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
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
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
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
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
Tech Rage IT Makes OBJ’s Top Technology Company List
UCF Business Incubation Client company comes in at No. 20 Winter Springs, Fla., March 27, 2020 – For the first time since the company was founded five years ago, Tech Rage IT has been ranked among the region’s top technology companies by Orlando Business Journal. Tech Rage IT was ranked No. 20 on the list published on March 27. The ranking was based on the number of employees in each firm. “It’s quite an honor to be among some of this region’s most accomplished technology firms,” says Erica
Read Any Good Books Lately?
Join Rise and Shine CF, as we meet with authors of all literary genres! Yes the authors! Every day we interview an author asking them to share their inspiration and their heart that put the words to paper. What a connection to meet the author, visit with them, learn what it meant to share their work with individuals they may never meet. To deliver a message of hope, to educate, to make laugh, to engage in thought-providing ideas and to entertain. They are sharing on, “The Author’s Lane”. Join us, as we
Helping a Loved One Manage Parkinson’s Disease
With the aging of our population, more people are living with Parkinson’s disease. Today, an estimated 1 million people in the U.S. are living with Parkinson’s, and it is diagnosed in another 50,000 people each year. What is Parkinson’s disease? Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a disorder of the brain that affects the transmission of messages to the muscles. When a person has PD, there is damage to the part of the brain that produces dopamine, an important chemical that allows the muscles to
Medicare 101 is Now Online
At Einstein Advisors, “We’re really smart about insurance!” And a primary focus for us is on the Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans. Our monthly Medicare 101 classes have been cancelled due to Coronavirus concerns, so we’re doing the class online! It’s critically important to fully understand how Medicare works, because it’s going to be the basis for your health insurance decisions. Without a solid understanding of the basics, it’s not possible to make an informed decision
Addition Financial Donates More Than $30,000 to Support Local Non-Profit Organizations
ake Mary, Fla. (March 30, 2020) – In order to help those facing hardship amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Addition Financial has donated more than $30,000 to local non-profits to support their emergency funds for students and staff, food banks and other areas of need. The credit union’s donations have supported A Gift For Teaching, Foundation for Orange County Public Schools, Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools, Education Foundation of Osceola County, Education Foundation of Lake County, UCF
Pace Brantley School Remote Learning Plan Is Unique One Of A Kind Program
Pace Brantley Students attend classes remotely with teachers during COVID-19 school closure (Longwood, Florida) The classrooms at Pace Brantley School may be empty but the school’s virtual rooms across Central Florida are full of Pace Brantley students learning the curriculum they normally would in their traditional classroom. The school switched over to a Remote Learning Plan, on Wednesday March 25, to keep their students on track and learning during the school closure due to COVID-19. “In creating a
Florida’s First Center Dedicated to Women’s History Coming to Orlando
Girl Scouts across Central Florida become entrepreneurs and earn money to power their own opportunities and adventures through the Girl Scout Cookie Program®. ORLANDO (March 12, 2020) – On Thursday afternoon city and county officials, residents, Girl Scouts, and other community members will gather to celebrate the groundbreaking for the future Women’s History & Cultural Center, the first center in the state of Florida to specifically honor the accomplishments and contributions of the women of Central
Free Lunch for Senior Workers keeping our Elders Safe during the Corona Virus Epidemic
At the Jewish Pavilion we love our seniors, and we so appreciate all that the staff who work in elder- communities are doing to keep their residents safe and happy. Thanks to a generous donor, the Jewish Pavilion is offering a free lunch to all 40 of the staff members at Brookdale Lake Orienta (217 Boston Avenue Altamonte Springs) on Wednesday, April 1st from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Staff members will be greeted by a Food Truck from Toasted; a Winter Park restaurant . The company provides delicious
Pet Therapy Dogs Working From Home Send Messages Of Hope And Encouragement To Orlando Health Team Members
The Orlando Health Pet Therapy Program consists of nearly 90 teams of pets and their handlers, across Orlando Health hospitals. ORLANDO, Fla. (April 2, 2020) --- The pet therapy dogs from the Orlando Health Pet Therapy Program may be on “paws” from their regular duties during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they are continuing to brighten days for team members with a virtual video message of hope and encouragement. In addition to an internal broadcast, Orlando Health social media channels will also share
Withum's COVID-19 Resource Center
Withum's COVID-19 Resource CenterOrlando, FL, April 2, 2020-- Withum, a Top 25 accounting and advisory firm with over 45 years of business consulting experience, has launched a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource Center. This tool helps users track tax updates with an interactive map and follow the latest business and industry insights by seasoned professionals. Withum's talented, high-profile Tax Team is staying on top of the rapid-fire news cycle on federal, state and local levels. Experts like Daniel Mayo,
Seminole County FL - APRIL 1 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (April 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 116 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 110 of which are Seminole County residents; there have been no deaths as a result of the virus in Seminole County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE Today, at 2:00 p.m., a press conference
Free, Daily 30-Minute Marketing Webinars Help To You in This New, Virtual World
Free, Daily 30-Minute Marketing Webinars To Help You in This New, Virtual WorldThe Countess Group is committed to helping the business community, 7 days a week ORLANDO, Fla. — April 1, 2020 – To help businesses overcome the challenge of lower sales during the current crisis, The Countess Group, led by marketing expert Ken Countess, has been offering free, live webinars every morning at 11:30am Eastern time. Different marketing topics are discussed every day. The live event runs for 30-minutes every
Florida Blue Waives Cost-Sharing for COVID-19 Treatment
Insurer offering personalized support for members hospitalized for treatment JACKSONVILLE, Fla., March 31, 2020 – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced today it will waive out-of-pocket costs through June 1 for its members who must undergo treatment for COVID-19, including in-patient hospital admissions. The announcement impacts all Florida Blue members with Affordable Care Act, Medicare Advantage (excluding Part D drug plans) and other individual plans, as well as all fully
Join the Jewish Pavilion Mask Challenge
Jill Goldsmith is a purse designer and seamstress with a company called “Live Out Loud.” Her business is word- of- mouth. Customers contact her by phone or email. She was inspired by her friend Deanne Schott, who began sewing face masks for an assisted living community. With the help of Joanne Fink from Zenspirations, Goldsmith created a Faebook page and group to support the seniors served by the Jewish Pavilion. Goldsmith started by making home- sewn masks for friends and family. (not masks a front
Seminole County FL - MARCH 31 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 31, 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. As of today, there have been 101 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 95 of which have been Seminole County residents. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. FACEBOOK LIVE CHAT MOVED Seminole County Emergency Manager Alan Harris hosts Facebook Live Chats, answering
Update from Goodwill Industries
Through this difficult time of uncertainty and financial strain due COVID-19 and job loss, we are working to connect community members to employers that are currently hiring. Our physical centers are temporarily closed, but Goodwill Job Connection Centers are continuing to build lives that work through virtual services. Please provide the following information to community members in your area so they may connect with us to receive assistance.Goodwill Industries of Central Florida Job Connection Centers are
An Update from Inspire on COVID-19
On March 27, 2020, Seminole County Emergency Management issued Executive Order 2020-006 regarding COVID-19, ordering social distancing and adherence to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. As such, Inspire of Central Florida’s Adult Day Training (ADT) facility is not considered an exception to the Order. Therefore, the ADT facility will remain closed until the Order is lifted. We will not be open next week. We have, however, began our Remote Learning Classes to offer meaningful daily
Visitor Guidelines from Central Florida Regional Hospital and Oviedo Medical Center
In addition to our enhanced safety precautions, including limiting entry ways and conducting visitor screenings, we have now implemented additional, temporary visitor restrictions to further ensure the safety of those in our care. At this time, visitors are not allowed in the hospital, except for the exceptions at the link noted below. No visitors will be allowed at Oviedo Medical Center with the following exceptions:One (1) adult visitor, 18 years or older, per pediatric patientOne (1) adult visitor, 18
Seminole County FL - March 30 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 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. As of 7:45 a.m., there are 83 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 77 of which are Seminole County residents. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE Today, at 2:00 p.m., a press conference will be held at the Seminole County Public Safety Building to
Updates from Seminole County Property Appraiser David Johnson
The Seminole County Property Appraiser’s office has granted automatic 45 day filing extensions to businesses filing their 2020 tangible personal property returns. The deadline to file is now May 18, 2020 and electronic filing on the secure website is encouraged: https://tpp.scpafl.org/The Seminole County Property Appraiser’s office is closed to the public but fully functioning. For questions, please call the customer service department at 407-665-7506 or email questions@scpafl.orgAn emergency order was
Donate to Foundation's At Home Toolkits
To meet the needs of our Seminole County Public Schools students who are about to engage in at-home learning, our Tools 4 Seminole Schools store is creating At Home Toolkits with basic school supplies to support their education. You can help by donating supplies to help ensure students have the resources they need during this difficult time. Learn more about school supplies needed and drop off locations at http://foundationscps.org/foundation-news/covid-19-increasing-essential-needs-for-students/
CSCF Virtual Services Extension
CareerSource Central Florida continues to assess the health and safety of our staff and customers due to the impact of the Coronavirus. We are continuing virtual-only services through Friday, April 17. We anticipate resuming in-office services at some of our locations on April 20th. CareerSource Central Florida will continue to follow official guidelines of government agencies to keep everyone safe during this crisis. We remain committed to serving career seekers, businesses and the community while
On The + Side: Addition Financial Shares Positive News & Resources
Addition Financial is back with the latest edition of On The + Side, a weekly blog series featuring positive community news and helpful resources to get through the quarantine. From “Takeout Bingo” to virtual lunch and learns, On The + Side aims to bring some light to an otherwise difficult time. To read the most recent blog, click here.
Education Graphics from Seminole County Sheriff’s Office
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies are out educating businesses about Seminole County Executive Order 2020-006, and offering suggestions on ways they can help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community. We encourage you to take a look at some of the suggestions being offered and share with friends who may be affected by the Executive Order. Together, we can work to Stop the Spread. For more information on the Executive Order, visit PrepareSeminole.org or call the
Seminole County FL - MARCH 27 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 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 are currently 43 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 40 of which are Seminole County residents. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE Today, at 2:00 p.m., a press conference will be held at the Seminole County Public Safety Building to provide
Inspire of Central Florida Response to COVID-19
Inspire Adult Day Training (ADT): The ADT will remain closed through April 3rd, scheduled to reopen on April 6th. As relayed in previous communications, we encourage you to keep your specialist home and practice social distancing in a continued effort to Slow the Spread of COVID-19, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. However, if it is necessary for your family to find alternative care solutions for your specialist, we are planning on reopening the ADT as indicated above. The ADT has been
Alexander Cartwright is UCF’s President-Elect
Alexander N. Cartwright, chancellor at the University of Missouri since 2017, was chosen as president-elect by the University of Central Florida today following a nationwide search. The UCF Board of Trustees, which selected Cartwright over another finalist, praised Cartwright’s proven experience as a leader both in Missouri and previously as provost and executive vice chancellor for the State University of New York (SUNY). Others credited his ability to connect with Missouri’s campus community, his
Einstein Advisors Welcomes Belinda Diko
Einstein Advisors is excited to announce that Belinda Diko has joined our team! Her experience in the Healthcare industry will be of great value to our agency and to her clients. ____________________________________________ Belinda is a lifelong resident of central Indiana, and she received her bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University. She is excited to assist Indiana clients with their Health and Life insurance needs. A Registered Nurse for over 25 years, Belinda offers a unique perspective
Seminole State Student Chosen As One Of 290 Newman Civic Fellows
SANFORD, Fla. (March 23, 2020) - Seminole State College of Florida student Megan Anderson’s passion for her community is being recognized. Anderson was among the 290 students across the nation to be selected as a 2020 Newman Civic Fellow. The fellows are made up from students across 39 states, Washington D.C., Greece, Lebanon and Mexico. The Newman Civic Fellowship is a one-year fellowship named after Dr. Frank Newman, one of the founders of Campus Compact, a national higher education association.
Orlando Health Welcomes New Chief Medical Information & IT Innovation Officer
Orlando, FL (March 25, 2020) – Orlando Health is pleased to announce Marshall Denkinger, MD, has joined as new chief medical information and information technology/clinical engineering (IT/CE) innovation officer. In this new leadership role, Dr. Denkinger will be responsible for provider relationship including virtual care, clinical informatics and IT innovation. He will lead initiatives to identify, research, pilot and support adoption of new information technology solutions and processes to best enable
2020 Orlando Sentinel Top Workplaces Registration Deadline Extended
The nomination window for Orlando Sentinel’s Top Workplaces has officially been EXTENDED - now accepting applications through extended deadline of Friday April 17th at https://www.orlandosentinel.com/nominate Top Workplaces: Why Should Companies Participate? The Top Workplaces program identifies organizations that excel at employee engagement with outstanding workplace cultures. The Orlando Sentinel, in partnership with Energage, offers a free assessment through a simple, scientifically sound and
Seminole State’s Emil Buehler Planetarium Hosting Virtual Star Party
SANFORD, Fla. (March 25, 2020) -- The Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium at Seminole State College of Florida is taking its show online with a Virtual Star Party. Enjoy a free virtual tour of the cosmos as the planetarium introduces its inaugural episode of Virtual Star Party! Derek Demeter and Justin Cirillo from the Emil Buehler Planetarium and Frank Kane from the Central Florida Astronomical Society will take you to the cosmos from the comfort of your own home on Friday, March 27, from 9 to 10
Addition Financial Launches “On the + Side” Blog Series in Response to COVID-19
Lake Mary, Fla. (March 25, 2020) – With social distancing, school closures and local curfews in place, Addition Financial has launched a weekly blog series called “On the + Side,” developed to help keep members in good spirits during this time of uncertainty. Through this blog series, the credit union will share positive news stories, wellness tips and free resources to make the time feel less isolating. These articles are designed to help community members adjust to the unprecedented new normal brought
Seminole County FL - MARCH 26 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 26, 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 39 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 36 of which are Seminole County residents. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE Today, at 2:00 p.m., a press conference will be held at the Seminole County Public Safety Building to provide
Verizon Helps Alert Parents To The Power Of Parental Controls
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for parents. With most schools now closed, many parents are attempting to work remotely while at the same time moonlighting as teachers, cafeteria workers, custodial staff, and sports coaches. Not surprisingly, during this time of social distancing, use of the internet has increased significantly. Much of this growth is from children, who are using internet-connected devices for remote learning, to stay in touch with friends, video-streaming, and
Florida Blue Extends Grace Period For Payment Of Premiums
ORLANDO, Fla., March 26, 2020 – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced today it will implement an extended grace period through May 31, 2020 for customers unable to pay premiums as a result of the COVID-19 health crisis that would otherwise have been subject to termination of coverage. The grace period applies to Affordable Care Act, Medicare Supplement, and other individual health plan members, as well as most of its employer group health plans. In addition, Florida Blue is working
Seminole County FL - MARCH 24 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 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 23 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 20 of which are Seminole County residents. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. COUNTY BUILDINGS CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC In effort to ensure the health of our visitors and employees, Seminole County Government has
The State of Florida Issues COVID-19 Updates
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - The State of Florida is responding to COVID-19. In an effort to keep Florida residents and visitors safe and aware regarding the status of the virus, the Florida Department of Health will issue this update every day, seven days per week. Governor Ron DeSantis is in constant communication with Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Jared Moskowitz and State Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees as the State of Florida continues to monitor and respond to the threat of
Arbonne Receives B-Corp Certification
Arbonne is excited to officially announce their certification with B-Corp. B-Corporations work to put people and planet before profit. All corporations who receive this certification provide transparency in their efforts to make the world a better place through their business. Arbonne is one of the top 25 (by revenue) companies to gain the certification and in the top 5 of personal care companies. We hold ourselves accountable by setting impactful goals and measuring our progress through the five areas
Seminole County Sheriff's Office - Coronavirus Update
It has been an extraordinary few weeks as our world faces historic challenges with the growing COVID-19 pandemic. Our agency remains committed to ensuring the public's safety as well as the safety of our staff during this uncertain time. We'd like to reassure everyone that we are still hard at work keeping the community safe during this time. To that end, we are going to provide some additional links and information below designed to keep protect the public health. 1. We recommend that everyone in the
Coronavirus Testing: Your Questions, Answered
With the spread of coronavirus, it’s normal to have a lot of questions, especially about coronavirus testing. We’re here to answer your questions about the testing process and procedures with the most up-to-date information we have. Please Note: The Coronavirus Testing Process Might Vary Nationwide We’re sharing the most updated information available on coronavirus testing from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Florida Department of Health — two reliable sources during this
Free Website Builder Available for Businesses Impacted by the COVID-19 Outbreak
Free Website Builder Available for Businesses Impacted by the COVID-19 OutbreakThe Countess Group is committed to helping the business community ORLANDO, Fla. — March 25, 2020 – If your business needs a new or improved website, The Countess Group, led by Ken Countess, is here to help. Especially with the impact of the COVID-19 virus affecting so many businesses large and small, having a good website is an imperative. “With a free website builder now available through The Countess Group, business
Stay Safe with Free Prescription Delivery!
Being able to get out and about when you are ill OR when you want to do your part in social distancing with the Corona Virus but you need to refill your monthly prescription, can be challenging. Your neighborhood, full-service, E-Z HealthMart Pharmacy is always willing and able to help with our dedicated team of qualified pharmacists. We offer FREE prescription delivery as a normal part of our service. It doesn't matter if it's a specialty medication, compounded medication, or simple antibiotic. We can
COVID-19 Is Impacting Blood Donation – Will You Help A Patient In Need?
The coronavirus is heightening the need for a ready blood supply. As businesses and schools shutdown, OneBlood is experiencing rapid cancelations of blood drives. We need your support to help ensure a ready blood supply. Every blood drive is important and every blood donation is crucial. We are looking for essential businesses(locations with foot traffic) that are still open to help with hosting a blood drive. Once we set up the Big Red Bus®, we provide everything you need from start to finish. We
Tips for Employees Working from Home and Leaders
Employees Barbara Larson, Professor of Management at Northwestern University and work from home researcher, has these recommendations for employees working from home: Discuss specific expectations for “work from home” assignments with your manager, including the best ways to communicate progress;Prepare yourself to be productive. Take a shower and get dressed. Create a dedicated workspace to maximize productivity and minimize stress to your body;Create boundaries within your home that your family members
Axiom Bank, N.A. Offers Relief To Customers Financially Impacted By Covid-19
Payment Deferral Program to Provide Loan Assistance for Business Owners and Consumers ORLANDO, Fla. (MARCH 23, 2020) – Axiom Bank, N.A., a Maitland-based, leading community bank, is offering support for its commercial and consumer customers who are being financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Axiom has reiterated its commitment to work with commercial customers and provide practical solutions to get them through this difficult period. Current borrowers are encouraged to contact their
Verizon Helps Eliminate Worry For Customers During Time Of Great Need
Reinforces pledge to Keep Americans Connected and goes further to protect most vulnerable Will waive overage charges and late fees to support customers who may be financially affected by the COVID-19 crisis Announces two months waived internet and voice service charges for current Lifeline customers and new affordable internet option for low-income households Adds 15GB of high speed data for wireless consumer and small business customers to be automatically applied with no customer action
Florida Blue commits $2 million in COVID-19 support for Florida communities
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced today that it is making an initial investment of $2 million to address urgent health and safety needs in communities across Florida, the company’s latest response to the COVID-19 public health crisis. The contributions will address food security for seniors and children, support for hourly workers, behavioral health needs and other crisis priorities. The company will make a series of donations across Florida through four
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Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas Take New Steps To Help Customers, Communities And Employees In
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas today announced a comprehensive set of steps to help customers, communities and employees manage the economic hardship caused by COVID-19. “This is an unprecedented crisis that requires an unprecedented response,” said Lynn Good, Duke Energy’s chairman, president and CEO. “We hope the customers and communities we are privileged to serve – and the outstanding Duke Energy employees who serve them – will take some comfort from these
Low-Income Internet/AT&T
Here's an update on some expanded offerings that target low income households in areas where AT&T offers in-home Internet service. You may already know about Access from AT&T. The eligibility requirements have been expanded and we are waiving home internet data overage fees. This flyer has more information, but please call me if you have any questions. Households that meet low-income qualifications can get in-home Internet for $5 or $10/month depending on speed in the area. Two free months for new
AdventHealth Update: Visitor Policy and Elective Procedures
As a trusted community partner, it’s vital we take measures together to minimize the risk of infection for patients, and protect our team members on the frontlines. In our effort to keep you informed on changes taking place at AdventHealth as we work to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19, I want to share these important updates and encourage you to share with your networks. Visitor Policy Changes After much discussion with clinical leaders and physicians, AdventHealth will update its visitation policy.
Nemours Visitor Policy and Update
Information below was posted and is effective as of March 22 and may change. For updates, please visit Nemours' website here.New Visitor Policy in Effect We know how important family are to the care and well-being of our patients. To keep you and your child safe, and to reduce the spread of COVID-19, we have temporarily introduced new visiting restrictions at all Nemours clinical locations.For inpatient hospital and emergency department visitsWe are asking families to name one or two healthy
Seminole County FL - MARCH 23 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 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 23 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 20 of which are Seminole County residents. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. TUESDAY, MARCH 24 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING The regularly scheduled March 24 Board of County Commissioners (BCC)
Let People Know About Your Business with Markham Woods Neighbors
To all small business owners please get in touch with us as we want to help your business through his crisis. If you email us with your information we will publish it in our next issue FREE of charge. I believe it will be helpful to let the residents know your plan of action and that you aren't going anywhere. You can email us at mwnpub@outlook.com. Please include your business name, address, phone number, email address, and your personal contact info. Your personal contact information will be kept
Seminole State College Remains Closed Until The End Of The 2020 Spring Semester
The leadership at Seminole State College continues to closely monitor the ever-changing global situation and follow the advice of local, state and federal officials including the Florida Department of Education, Florida Department of Health and the CDC during the coronavirus pandemic. Our first priority is the health and well-being of our Seminole State family. Seminole State College campuses and physical facilities will remain closed until the end of the 2020 Spring semester with limited exceptions. For
MLS Statement on CDC Recommendations
In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance to postpone events involving more than 50 people over the next eight weeks, Major League Soccer announced on Thursday that it was extending the suspension of all matches, with a target return date of May 10. MLS remains focused on playing the entire 2020 season and is evaluating all options, including pushing back the end of the season and playing MLS Cup in December, as the league did prior to the 2019 season. The league is also
Seminole County FL - MARCH 20 COVID-19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 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. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. PRESS CONFERENCE Today, at 2:00pm, a press conference will be held at the Seminole County Public Safety building to provide updates regarding preparedness and prevention of COVID-19 in Seminole County. Speakers include: Seminole
AlphaGraphics Lake Mary Offering Free Posters to Prevent Spread of Germs
AlphaGraphics Lake Mary has developed a number of print and sign assets to assist in the effort to communicate safety and disease prevention. The materials have been developed with CDC guidelines and provide signage for several areas of your business for both customers and employees. This kit is easily customizable and can be produced quickly in our Lake Mary center. It consists of the following products, which can be purchased as a package or individually. Banner Stand and Graphics – can be set up near
You Can Use the Power of Charisma
Politicians like Joe Biden and Ronald Reagan are described as charismatic. But even you can earn that label at your next presentation. Charisma is not a talent you’re born with. It’s a power tool you can pick up, practice and perfect. It’s a skill that can make your sales and business presentations more persuasive, inspiring and influential. If you’re thinking, “Why do I need charisma?” or “How can I use it in my presentations?” keep reading. You gain three BIG benefits when you develop your charisma
How Your Business Can Survive the COVID-19 Pandemic
How Your Business Can Survive the COVID-19 PandemicFree online webinars from The Countess Group ORLANDO, Fla. — March 19, 2020 – COVID-19 has everyone’s attention. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group has been offering free webinars to help business owners navigate the coronavirus crisis. “As a business community, we need to help each other overcome this hardship,” said Countess. “We are offering informational webinars as a free service. We have special guests covering several
Misconception About Childless Adults Can Be Misguided
Well-meaning adults often tend to have the mistaken belief that childless adults must not like kids; this misconception can be so very far the truth and misguided. I recently invited readers in a UCF Forum to contemplate their views on childless adults. Readers were encouraged to think about reasons that other adults had lives without children, to be empathetic to those who may not have had a choice to be a parent, and to rethink the narrative of our subconscious thoughts and actions that often influence
Einstein Advisors Celebrates Pi Day Anniversary
The number π (Pi) is a mathematical constant that appears in many formulas in all areas of mathematics and physics. It is approximately equal to 3.14159, or simply 3.14. In recent years, March 14th has been celebrated around the world as Pi Day, an excuse to eat pie and celebrate the wonders of science. The fact that Albert Einstein was born on Pi Day in 1879 is not lost on the founders of Einstein Advisors. And the fact that our company was founded on Pi Day in 2019, is yet another reason to celebrate…
Heathrow Women's Club Holds Successful Fashion Show
Amid all the craziness and uncertainty in today’s world, we would like to share some good news. Heathrow Women’s Club Charities, Inc held a very successful Fashion Show and Silent Auction fundraiser on March 8 at The Westin Lake Mary, Orlando North. The monies we raised that day, along with those raised throughout the year, will be distributed to the four charities we support helping women and children in need in Seminole County including: The Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida, West Sanford Branch,
Nailed It DIY Lake Mary was featured on David Martin Does It
Today March 16th,2020 Nailed It DIY Lake Mary was featured on David Martin Does It with Good Day Orlando. David came into the studio to feature the large variety of projects available for everyone to make. In the crazy times we are currently facing Nailed It DIY is still a place operating and providing a safe space. Nailed It can not hold more than 50 people in the studio for projects, so under the amount recommended. The studio is taking as many steps as possible to keep everything clean and safe.So if you
Great Results at Palmer Natural Health
The past couple of weeks we've had a few great wins with patients I would love to share with the chamber! “Dr. Palmer has totally brought back my health. Before I started seeing her, I would suffer from headaches and nausea every day. I had irritable bowels every day. I was tired and foggy all the time. Now after only 2 months I feel 1005 better! I have no more symptoms; my energy levels are through the roof. I am no longer foggy or bloated. My experience here has been great!” – Rachel S."Since starting
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Orlando Health: Your COVID-19 Questions Answered
Orlando Health has launched a hotline for patients and the community to obtain information about COVID-19. By calling (877) 321COVID (877-321-2684), consumers can get accurate information about COVID-19 from trained Orlando Health representatives. The Orlando Health COVID-19 Hotline will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for as long as the resource is needed. A resource page has also been established to help the community stay informed about this evolving situation. There’s a lot of
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Orlando Health Emergency Room and Medical Pavilion – Lake Mary Helps Raise More than $5,000
On Saturday, February 29, Orlando Health Emergency Room and Medical Pavilion – Lake Mary was the proud host of the 3rd annual Lake Mary Fire Department Run with a Hero. The event featured a family-friendly 3K course around the facility and adjacent properties. This year, runner registrations nearly doubled with over 450 participants in the 3K! The fun run celebrated local heroes from police, fire, military and medical as they ran in full gear alongside participants of all ages. The run kicked off with our
Attivo Networks And Seminole State Partner For Deception-based Technology
New initiative aims to help close global cybersecurity skills gap through education and training SANFORD, Fla. (March 19, 2020) -- Attivo Networks®, the award-winning leader in deception for cybersecurity threat detection, and Seminole State College of Florida have established a joint initiative aimed at closing the global cybersecurity skills gap. Beginning Fall 2020, Seminole State College will be among the first institutions of higher education in the United States to incorporate threat deception
Addition Financial Branches Temporarily Offer Drive-through Service Only
We are closely monitoring the recommendations for businesses that have been issued by the Centers for Disease Control and other health organizations. In response to those guidelines, we will offer service only via our drive-thru windows until further notice. We will be extending our hours to allow for more convenient access to our drive-thrus. Extended drive-thru hours: * Monday through Wednesday – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. * Thursday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. * Friday - 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. * Saturday –
CareerSource Central Florida Announces Virtual Delivery of Services Amid COVID-19 Crisis
Orlando, Fla., March 18, 2020 – In light of the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 Coronavirus crisis globally and in US local communities, all CareerSource Central Florida Career Centers and Administration office will not be open and instead will provide virtual services only between March 18 and 31, ensuring continuous operations while taking health and safety precautionary measures. Official announcements for re-opening and more updates will be shared immediately through its website, social media channels
Seminole County FL - March 19 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 19, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management continues to monitor COVID-19. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES Both Narcotics Anonymous and SmartRecovery.org offer online resources for substance abuse and mental health during this time of social distancing. Resources include online communities with 24/7 chatrooms, Skype and Zoom virtual meetings, recovery journals and
A Q&A from AdventHealth
Dear valued partner,As our community joins together to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19, AdventHealth's dedicated doctors, nurses and team members continue to work around the clock to prepare and we want to ensure you have the latest information. We encourage you to visit our dedicated website (www.CoronavirusSignsAndSymptoms.com<http://www.CoronavirusSignsAndSymptoms.com>) that is continually updated, and will share pertinent information as it becomes available.AdventHealth is testing patients who meet
Two Incubator Graduates Named to Fastest-Growing Florida Companies List
Orlando’s Embark Safety and Solodev land in Inc. Magazine’s first ever statewide ranking Orlando, Fla. (March 18, 2020) – When Inc. Magazine released its list of Florida’s fastest growing companies, graduates of the UCF Business Incubation Program were well represented.Coming in at No. 116 is Embark Safety, an innovative provider of Enterprise Risk Management SaaS, providing customers with real-time alerts regarding changes to their drivers’ records. Over the past two years, they have grown 113 percent.
How to holistically support your body’s immune system against coronavirus
Immune: (adj.) resistant to a particular infection or toxin owing to the presence of specific antibodies or sensitized white blood cells. – Oxford 1. Boost your immune system: Foods with higher vitamin C- At Palmer Natural Health 80% of our whole food supplements have vitamin C. • Berries • Acerola juice or fruit • Broccoli • Cantaloupe • Cauliflower • Kale • Kiwi • Oranges • papaya Echinacea: What is Echinacea? Root of a plant the helps the body with: •
AT&T Offers Added Relief and Support to Customers in Response to COVID-19
At AT&T, we recognize that staying in touch with your family, friends, school and work has never been more important.Below are a few ways we’re helping consumers and small businesses, as well as enterprises across the country and in our local communities.AT&T is proud to support our customers by pledging, for the next 60 days, we will: · Not terminate the service of any wireless, home phone or broadband residential or small business customer because of their inability to pay their bill due to
Coronavirus Update #10: A Message from Superintendent Walt Griffin
As you’re aware, information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic continues to change on a daily basis. Here are some of the latest updates I wish to share: 1. Distance Learning for our students will begin on Monday, March 30. We will soon share specific instructions with all our families on how that will occur. 2. SCPS Students (Elementary, Middle, & High) who are currently eligible for and receive Free or Reduced Lunch and are in need of a computer (laptop) for Distance Learning will be loaned a school
An Important Message From Josh D'Amaro
Hello Everyone,It's an understatement to say that it has been an unusual few days at Walt Disney World Resort. Yesterday, we closed our theme parks through the end of the month to do our part to help mitigate the spread of the coronavirus here in Central Florida. We will also close Disney Springs by the end of the day today while working on ramping down our hotels.It's not like anything our community has faced before and our focus has been on the safety and well-being of our Guests, Cast Members and their
CareerSource Central Florida virtual delivery of services in relation to the COVID-19 crisis
The safety and well-being of our customers, staff, and the community we serve is our utmost priority. As we continue to follow the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) threat, CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) has taken preventive measures recommended by the government and health authorities to ensure we are taking the right actions to keep our community safe. Therefore we want to share with the following important information: Beginning Wednesday, March 18th, all CareerSource Central Florida locations will
Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program Information
In effort to help small businesses Governor Ron DeSantis and the State of Florida have activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, which provides short-term interest-free loans to small businesses impacted by the CoronaVirus (COVID-19.) Businesses with 2-100 employees can apply for loans at https://floridadisasterloan.org These short-term, interest-free working capital loans are intended to "bridge the gap" between the time a major catastrophe hits and when a business has secured
Inspire of Central Florida Special Advisory
As a provider of residential and adult day training services to individuals with developmental disabilities we are committed to providing ongoing care and support to those we serve. Inspire of Central Florida is implementing emergency management protocols in response to this unprecedented pandemic that is impacting all of our lives. We ask for your patience and understanding in assisting us with complying with new standards to reduce our residents, specialists and the staff who support them to potential
Great Information and Education Resources to Share
PBS EDUCATION RESOURCES FOR KIDSThe PBS KIDS 24/7 (WUCF 24.3) channel offers anytime access to trusted educational series for kids ages 2-8.The PBS KIDS Video app is available on mobile, tablet and connected TV devices and offers on-demand educational videos, and a livestream of the PBS KIDS 24/7 channel. No subscription required.The PBS KIDS Games app offers nearly 200 educational games, which can be downloaded for offline play anytime, anywhere. Learn more about these and PBS KIDS' other apps
SCPS Schools in Need of Food Pantry Donations
SCPS Elementary Schools in Need of Food Pantry Items Drop-Off Times: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. beginning March 23rd Altamonte Elementary (Needs: Any Non-Perishable Food Items & Snacks) Bear Lake Elementary (Needs: Any Non-Perishable Food Items & Snacks) Bentley Elementary (Needs: Canned Meat, Canned Vegetables, Mac n’ Cheese, & Canned Pastas) Carillon Elementary (Needs: Peanut Butter, Jelly, Pasta, Breakfast Cereal, Canned Meat) Casselberry Elementary (Needs: Canned Vegetables, Canned Meat, Canned
Feeding Children Due to COVID-19
With the COVID-19 crisis and children out of school, I know many people are asking...what can they do to help.Hearts, Hands and Hope provides food assistance when children are out of school and now with the uncertainly due to COVID-19, families are struggling. We have been delivering food bags to children and families in the community and will be continuing to provide food assistance throughout this crisis. Since we're a non-profit, we rely on donations to make this happen.All donations go directly to
Goodwill Services Announcement
The safety and health of the Job Connection Center community is Goodwill’s top priority. Necessary measures are being taken in order to minimize the potential of COVID-19 exposure among our participants. Therefore, all group activities such as VITA tax preparation, recruitment events, computer classes, Sealing and Expungement workshop and Job Works 101 have been cancelled for the rest of the month of March. We appreciate your efforts to support Goodwill Industries of Central Florida and the Sanford Job
Seminole County Tax Collector and Driver License Services
In order to prevent unnecessary spreading of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) our offices will be assisting customers with existing appointments ONLY effective Wednesday, March 18th. Check our website for available appointments for limited services at this time. At that point only the customer with the appointment (and a parent/guardian in the case of a minor) will be admitted into the office to process their transaction. Please keep in mind that many transactions can be processed online at our website at
Seminole County FL - March 17 COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 17, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management continues to monitor COVID-19. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. FACEBOOK LIVE Today, Seminole County Emergency Manager Alan Harris will host a fourth Facebook Live Chat to answer questions related to Seminole County’s COVID-19 response. The Live Chat will be hosted at Facebook.com/SeminoleCounty at 10:30am. The Live Chat will be recorded and made available for
Cyber criminals taking advantage of the Coronavirus
As many of us are adjusting to the ever changing environment around the Coronavirus, criminals are devising ways to attack us from another front, our computers. Companies across the US are moving to have employees work from home. These remote workers are at risk to have their user information and transnational data exposed during online transactions from specific types of threats. Including: PhishingDNS poisoningKeystroke loggingScreen grabbingCookie scrapingClipboard grabbingBrowser and session
Tech Rage IT’s Matt Rose Honors Friend with Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Fundraising Effort
Winter Springs, Fla., March 11, 2020 – College is often a place where bonds are formed, where people meet and start their shared memories of a lifetime as friends. Matt Rose, Tech Rage IT’s Director of Technology Services believed that to be true with his friend, Lance Nadolne. The two met at the University at Albany in New York during their sophomore year in 2000. They became instant friends while Rose studied Information Science and Nadolne studied Communications. Just four years later, Nadolne
Free 24/7 Bilingual Helpline Open to Provide Emotional Support during COVID-19 Health Crisis
ORLANDO, Fla., March 13, 2020 – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, has partnered with New Directions Behavioral Health to offer a free bilingual helpline to assist all Floridians with the stress they may feel during the COVID-19 health crisis. The toll-free helpline connects individuals with specially trained behavioral health counselors who can assist anyone experiencing feelings of stress, anxiety, trauma and grief due to the health crisis. 24-Hour Toll-Free HelplineFree Bilingual
Seminole County FL - COVID-19 UPDATE: MARCH 16
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (March 16, 2020): Seminole County Office of Emergency Management continues to monitor COVID-19. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. MEDIA AVAILABILITY Seminole County Office of Emergency Management will host a COVID-19 briefing via webinar for Assisted Living Facility and Nursing Home Operators at 1:00pm. The meeting was originally scheduled as a face-to-face workshop, and will also be recorded. Following the webinar, Seminole County
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Duke Energy Implements Additional Steps To Protect Customers And Employees During Virus Pandemic
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy has implemented additional steps to protect its customers and employees in the six states it serves during the COVID-19 pandemic. Duke Energy power plants, and electricity and natural gas delivery facilities, are staffed, ensuring dependable service to customers. The company has taken the following steps to protect its customers and employees: Duke Energy will not disconnect any customer’s service for non-payment, in order to give customers
Zoo Temporarily Closed Amid Coronavirus (COVID-19) Concerns
SANFORD, Fla., March 14, 2020—Based on the recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Florida Department of Health, and in close consultation with the Seminole County Office of Emergency Management, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens will be temporarily closed to the public, effective immediately. "The health and safety of Zoo guests, staff, volunteers, and animals is our highest priority," said Dino Ferri, the Zoo's CEO. "We are actively working with federal,
Verizon Will Help Customers And Small Businesses Disrupted By Impact Of Coronavirus
BASKING RIDGE, N.J. – During this unprecedented period challenging the world’s health and economy, Verizon announced today, for the next 60 days, it will waive late fees that any residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus. In addition, the company will not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus. Verizon today signed
AdventHealth Coronavirus Updates
In order to provide a safe, healing environment for patients and team members, AdventHealth is modifying its visitor policies, effective March 16 for inpatients, outpatient labs and imaging centers, and March 18 for Centra Care and physician practices.Everyone visiting AdventHealth facilities, including outside vendors, will be screened each time they enter the facility. If any of the screening identifies a symptom of concern, the visitor will not be allowed to enter the hospital until testing would confirm
Foundation For Seminole State College Of Florida's 36th Annual Dream Gala Raises Over $442,000
SANFORD, Fla. (March 10, 2020) – Through the generosity of over 400 attendees, the Foundation for Seminole State College of Florida's 36th annual Dream Gala raised over $442,000 for student scholarships, faculty program support and areas of greatest need throughout the College. The gala, presented by Addition Financial, was held at the Orlando Marriott Lake Mary on Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. Inspired by the event falling on leap day, an extra day every four year, this year’s theme focused on asking attendees
Guignard Company’s Margie Morris Participates in National Women in Construction Week
Orlando, Fla. – Last week, the National Association of Women in Construction held their annual Women in Construction Week. A week that is full of inspiration, education, and motivation, the focus of WIC Week is to magnify the crucial and essential role that women play in the construction industry. At Guignard, we were very excited to see the awareness being raised for available opportunities for women, and to learn more about the growing role that women are playing in the industry as a whole. Our
ACE Human Resources presenting at Seminole State College’s Center for Business Development
On Thursday, March 19th from 12-1pm, Christina Clark owner of ACE Human Resources will present "Finding Good People" at the monthly Lunch and Learn. Hiring in a competitive job market can present a major challenge for small business owners. Join local business owners and professionals to learn hiring best practices, tips and advice on how to find quality employees. Seminole State College's Center for Business Development assists small business owners in Seminole County to start, grow and succeed through
Coronavirus Survey Results - How Employers Are Preparing
Coronavirus is of great concern to employers. The results of EAF's survey who how employers are responding to this threat. The survey can be accessed at https://www.eafmembers.org/eaf/CoronavirusSurveyResults.pdf. Also, if any employer would like guidance to share with employees as to when they should stay home while sick and when it's safe to return to work as well as tips to share with employees about preventing the spread of contagious diseases such as colds, flu, measles, etc., please call or email
Hippity Hop Adventures Returning to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
SANFORD, Fla., March 10, 2020—Celebrate Easter at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens during Hippity Hop Adventure, presented by VyStar Credit Union. “We are proud to be able to continue the tradition of hosting this wildly popular, family-friendly event at the Zoo,” said Dino Ferri, the Zoo’s CEO. “Through our partnership with VyStar Credit Union, we are able to extend this year's event to the entire weekend.” This year’s Hippity Hop Adventure will feature treat stations throughout the Zoo that
Student Fieldtrips Involving Air Travel Suspended Immediately
(SANFORD, FL) – All Central Florida school superintendents continue to carefully monitor the COVID-19 situation. Following a call with the Florida Commissioner of Education this morning and based on his strong recommendations, all student field trips involving air travel will be suspended immediately through the end of the current school year. District and school staff members will work with parents and travel companies on appropriate cancellation arrangements. We apologize for the inconvenience but believe
AdventHealth launches ‘Coronavirus Information Line’ for Floridians
ORLANDO, Fla., March 10, 2020 — AdventHealth is launching a free phone service for Floridians who have questions about COVID-19, including the opportunity to speak with a nurse as appropriate. The AdventHealth Coronavirus Information Line, 877-VIRUSHQ, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It serves as a one-stop-shop to connect Floridians with resources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Florida Department of Health. While the phone line is not intended to replace
Thinking Lean with Six Sigma
What is Lean Six Sigma? Some of you might ask what is this thing, called Six Sigma. Well my friend, glad you asked. Six Sigma allows companies to save millions of dollars. In my trainings, I deliver using the concept of Keep It Simple Sam (KISS), which provides you a better understanding; thereby, allowing you to use the techniques immediately in your everyday life. When you look at your company or department there are three questions you are asking or should be asking. Are you eliminating waste, are you
Girls On The Run Central Florida Hosts Second Annual Sneaker Soiree
Orlando, Fla. – On Thursday, Apr. 2, Girls on the Run (GOTR) Central Florida is lacing up for its Second Annual Sneaker Soiree, their signature fundraiser. Attendees are encouraged to pair their favorite cocktail attire with sneakers for the event. In addition to food, a silent auction and plenty of opportunities to learn about the non-profit organization’s mission, guests will also hear from Star Power Honoree and keynote speaker Diane Sears. Sears is a well-known community leader, entrepreneur
Free Event on April 7th: Discover Why Less Than 15% of Companies Hit Their Sales Quota
ORLANDO, Fla., March 9, 2020- Bill and Paul Reidy of Sandler Training in Orlando invite you as their guest for a Business Development Workshop on April 7, 2020 (10:30-noon), at Seminole State College—Lake Mary Campus At Sandler Training, we know it is important to have a process and a structure when growing your business. Join us for this business development event, and learn some practical insights on how to re-choreograph the buyer/seller dance, so that the seller leads and the buyer closes. You
UCF Forum; Not All Healing is Physical – Recognizing and Overcoming Grief
By Katie PhilpUCF Forum columnistSports have always been a part of my life. As I grew older, I stopped seeing sport as competition and started seeing a source of community. Many of my closest friendships today were forged on the field. My husband and I played soccer together for a year before we began dating, and our biggest wedding-planning stress was making sure we could invite the entire team.When we abruptly moved to Florida, the loss of that tight-knit group was, in a word, devastating. After a long
Orlando Sanford International Airport Announces Seasonal Nonstop Service to Madrid, Spain
Sanford, FL— March 5, 2020 -- Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) announced a new airline partner today- WAMOS Air- that will offer Central Florida’s only nonstop flight to Madrid, Spain beginning June 27, 2020 through August 29, 2020. “On behalf of the Sanford Airport Authority, we welcome WAMOS Air to the Orlando Sanford International Airport family,” said Diane Crews, President and CEO of Orlando Sanford International Airport. “We are thrilled to expand our network in Florida and to provide an
Florida Blue Hiring More Than 300 Positions Offering 3 Months Paid Leave
Member Care roles offer “teacher schedule” with three-months leave with pay and benefits Florida Blue is currently hiring more than 300 Member Care Specialists positions that offer a unique teacher-like schedule providing three months of paid leave with benefits during the summer. The positions also include PTO (paid time off) and quarterly incentive bonuses. In the role, employees serve potential, new and existing customers by reviewing claims history and billing and enrollment accuracy, researching
Businesses with Strong STEM Environment to Gain Talent Solutions Advantage at ?2020 Talent Forum
Orlando, Fla., March 04, 2020 --- CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) has partnered with the Florida High Tech Corridor Council (The Corridor) for an annual Talent Forum that brings together high tech industry businesses and top-ranked Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) schools in the region for talent solutions that ignite potential. The event on March 16 and 17 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando will provide open discussion about local talent needs, recruiting and training strategies to increase
More “WOW” content added to the March 23-24 “Supercharge Your Business” Marketing Workshop
2 day event to be held at Rasmussen College in Altamonte Springs ORLANDO, Fla. — March 4, 2020 – So attendees get even more value out of an already amazing event, the “Supercharge Your Business" marketing workshop presented by The Countess Group in Altamonte Springs on March 23 and 24 has additional content for participants. Newly added sections include for Day 2:Understanding traffic plans. Using adsNetworking to get contactsKnowing your conversion ratesYou'll build a personal template right on the
Addition Financial Launches A+ Mortgage Program for School District Employees
Lake Mary, Fla. (March 2, 2020) – Local school district employees can make their dreams of affordable home ownership a reality, thanks to the new A+ Mortgage Program launched by Addition Financial. As a credit union founded by educators, Addition Financial has partnered with Orange County Public Schools, Seminole County Public Schools and the Osceola School District to provide this new benefit to school district employees. The A+ Mortgage Program offers a variety of features designed to help members
Solar Bears To Appear At Planet Smoothie Locations
Meet-and-greet sessions at several Orlando-area locations on Sunday, March 8 ORLANDO, Fla. – Several Orlando Solar Bears players will visit six Orlando-area Planet Smoothie® locations on Sunday, March 8 from 2-4 p.m. to sign autographs for fans present. Fans who visit these locations will receive a free pack of Solar Bears player cards during the meet-and-greet sessions, while supplies last. As a special offer, any fans who visit the participating locations during this time wearing their Solar Bears
The Ball at Oviedo Mall - Tickets On Sale Now!
Oviedo, FL – March 2, 2020 – Tickets are on sale now through June 5 for The Ball at Oviedo Mall, an adult-themed prom taking place, Saturday, June 6 from 9:30 pm-11:30 pm at Oviedo Mall.The Ball at Oviedo Mall is an adult Prom, perfect for people who are feeling nostalgic about their prom, never went to prom or just want to have fun! The Ball at Oviedo Mall will take place Saturday, June 6 from 9:30 pm-11:30 pm in the west wing of Oviedo Mall, near O2B Kids, doors will open at 9 pm. Advance tickets are
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Burn Boot Camp Lake Mary Raises Money for PedsAcademy at Nemours Children’s Hospital
Join Burn Boot Camp, their members from over 7 participating Central Florida locations, and the public to generate awareness, raise funds for PedsAcademy at Nemours Children’s Hospital, and feel the burn at a pop-up boot camp at UCF! The first ever annual event will take place on Saturday March 7th at 8:30am at the UCF Intramural Fields located at 12625 Scholarship Dr, Orlando 32816. Burn Boot Camp is a nationally recognized fitness community designed to transform the lives of our clients. We
10 Ways to Help a Senior Loved One Manage Diabetes
More than 25% of people over the age of 65 have diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Age is a top risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease. The complications of diabetes can be severe. Diabetes increases the risk of infection. It can damage the heart, kidneys, nerves and eyes. It raises the risk of dementia, incontinence and falls. It reduces both the quality and length of life. Fortunately, diabetes can be managed. Some seniors can
Crooms Tech Fest XIV
(SANFORD, FL) Crooms Academy of Information Technology (AOIT) will host their annual “TechFest” conference on Thursday, March 12, 2020 from 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Crooms AOIT located at 2200 Historic Goldsboro Blvd., Sanford, FL, 32771. Students at the conference will attend two workshop sessions to learn about the hi-tech workplace and necessary professional skills, attend a keynote session, and visit an exhibit hall with more than 30 sponsors. With more than 20 businesses from across the country in
Spirit Rizing – Bodyworks & Energentics Opens New Location
Brings Benefits of Massage Therapy and Reiki to the Community Spirit Rizing – Bodyworks & Energetics located in with Body by Roni Fitness & Day Spa at 1043 Upsala Road, Suite 1005, Sanford, Florida, Ginger Clealand, a native Floridian, is an experienced LMT and Reiki Master and believes in a holistic approach to wellness, healing your body naturally. Holistic medicine is the art and science of healing that addresses the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. “I use my knowledge and skill to
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Orlando Health Adds New Breast Cancer Expert to Oncology Team
Expands Breast Surgical Oncology Options for Seminole County Residents Orlando, FL (February 27, 2020) – Robin Rahm, M.D., is the newest oncologist to join the team of cancer specialists at Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center. Dr. Rahm comes to Orlando Health with more than 20 years of experience in oncology and breast surgical practices. She is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. She obtained additional continuing
The Countess Group Releases New Seminar Catalog for 2020
Businesses and Non-profits Can Book Classes for their StakeholdersOrlando, FL – February 26, 2020 – The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and communications consultancy, today announced the availability of its 2020 catalog of marketing classes, workshops and webinars. Ken Countess, The Countess Group’s Managing Director, a Certified Marketing Expert, conducts over 100 events each year to help attendees get the most out of their marketing efforts. “We help small businesses and
Lake Mary, Florida Financial and Wealth Advisor Broadcasts His Latest Financial Message
Chuck Oliver Takes to the Radio Air Waves with His Message That Higher Taxes Are Around the Corner Regardless of Who Wins the Election! Lake Mary, Florida - On Saturday February 22 and Sunday February 23, 2020, wealth strategy expert and retirement architect Chuck Oliver President of The Hidden Wealth Solution broadcasted his newest message that higher taxes are around the corner. Oliver stated, “We help Baby Boomers and Retirees thrive in retirement. To be successful in avoiding the “government
Local Avon Man in Top 50 in Region of 3000
Howie Appel of Lake Mary is your Local Avon Representative. He has been selling Avon for 16 years. Howie just found out that he has been assigned to a new Senior Sales Executive out of the Jacksonville area. He called her yesterday to welcome her to her new position and she informed him that she is responsible for 3000 Avon Representatives in her territory (Central Florida, North Florida, and South Georgia). She also informed him that of the 3000 representatives, he ranks #24 in overall sales. She
Oviedo Medical Center Hosts A Free Lecture On Advances In Spine Surgery
Oviedo Medical Center will host an informative presentation on back pain, covering everything from prevention to treatments. The lecture will be presented by neurosurgeon Pedro Ramirez, MD. Space is limited for this free event. A light dinner will be served. WHERE: Oviedo Medical Center 8300 Red Bug Lake Road Oviedo, Fla.
UCF Forum: All That Glitters – Could Be Unhealthy
By Roy Lenfest UCF Forum columnist In my family of mostly teachers, glitter has been known as the “social virus” of the elementary school arts and crafts closet for years. You can ask any school teacher in the primary grades or go to their house and you will find glitter in totally unexpected – and unwelcomed – places. Yes, in today’s world many items are single use and made of plastic, but glitter is one of those things that is not necessary and certainly doesn’t serve any useful purpose beyond
Plans For Raider Center At Seminole State College Move Forward
SANFORD, Fla. (Feb. 26, 2020) – Plans for a wellness center at Seminole State College of Florida’s Sanford/Lake Mary Campus are moving forward. The final phase of construction is underway for the renovation of building H, which will become the new Raider Center. At its board meeting Monday, Jan. 27, the Seminole State College Board of Trustees approved the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for the project at $5,776,166 within the overall $8 million budget for the center. Gilbane, Inc. will serve as the
Greenwood Lakes Playground Replacement
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (2/26/20)- At yesterday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting, the Greenwood Lakes playground replacement project funding was approved to include: •Age appropriate equipment for ages 2-5, including:Elevated play componentsSlidesSwings •Age appropriate equipment for ages 5-12, including:Elevated play componentsSlidesSwings •Appropriate safety surfaces throughout the play area •Seating for parents •Accessible route for play area This equipment will be placed in close proximity
Sunset at the Zoo returns to Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
SANFORD, Fla., February 25, 2020—The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is bringing back its wildly popular adults-only evening event, Sunset at the Zoo. On the third Thursday of each month from March through October, adults - 21 and over - can enjoy happy hour at the Zoo. “The Zoo completely transforms in the evenings," said Dino Ferri, the Zoo's CEO. "From the adults-only atmosphere to all the animals and entertainment, Sunset at the Zoo has become a great place for a monthly meetup with friends or
Central Florida Regional Hospital Hosts A Physician Q&A On Neck Pain
Central Florida Regional Hospital will host an informative Q&A presentation on common neck pain causes and treatment options. The lecture will be presented by neurological surgeon Rafael Allende, MD. Space is limited for this free event. WHERE: Central Florida Regional Hospital 1401 West Seminole Blvd. Sanford, FL
Restaurant And Vendor Lineup Announced For Inaugural Orlando Solar Bears Food Festival
Event takes place from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 29 prior to game vs. Newfoundland Growlers ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears have announced the lineup of local restaurants and vendors for the team’s inaugural Food Festival, which will take place on Saturday, Feb. 29 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. prior to the team’s 7 p.m. game vs. the Newfoundland Growlers at the Jewett Orthopaedic Rink at Amway Center. The Food Festival will take place on Church Street in front of Amway Center. To gain entry to the
“Supercharge Your Business” Marketing Workshop Coming to Orlando
March 23 and March 24 event to be held at Rasmussen University ORLANDO, Fla. — February 24, 2020 – Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, will host a 2-day “Supercharge Your Business" marketing workshop in Altamonte Springs on March 23 and 24. The workshop will have an all-star lineup of presenters, including Ken Countess, Tina Brinkley Potts, Joe Davis and others. The content will include: • Marketing strategy • Identifying your ideal target
ID Shield Wins 2020 Cybersecurity Excellence Award for ID Theft Resolution Service
IDShield Wins 2020 Cybersecurity Excellence Award for ID Theft Resolution ServiceFebruary 24, 2020 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time ADA, Okla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IDShield, a leading North American provider of identity monitoring, theft protection, and restoration technology and services for individuals and families, has been awarded the 2020 Cybersecurity Excellence Award for ID Theft Resolution Service – Gold Winner. “The Cybersecurity Excellence Awards’ latest recognition of IDShield and the work we are
Seminole Science Students Compete in VEX Robotics Championship
In February, four teams from Seminole Science Charter Schools’ VEX Robotics program competed in the VEX IQ North/Central Florida Championship. All of SSCS’s elementary and middle school student participants qualified for this event through hard work and high scores at other local events this season. Team “Stingbots Coded” won the Inspire Award in the elementary division, taking home high honors and recognition for their school’s top-rated STEM curriculum. VEX Robotics is a worldwide program which
CareerSource Central Florida Welcomes New Director of Public Policy and Alliances
Orlando, Fla., February 24, 2020 --- CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) has named a new Director of Public Policy and Alliances, Clifford Marvin who is a senior leader and strategist with more than 15 years of multi-industry success driving high-impact partnership strategies and community engagement. In this new role, Marvin will be responsible for leading CSCF’s multi-stakeholders network across five counties to positively impact the community on workforce development issues and help shape the local
Organization - The Task We Love to Hate!
The first of the year brings a number of key activities: goal setting, vacation or annual appointment planning, employee evaluations, spring cleaning, annual taxes, and so on. What do all of these have in common?****** ORGANIZATION! ****** Did you know:Americans waste 55 minutes a day (roughly 12 days a year) looking for things they own but can’t find - NewsweekOffice employees spend 1.5 hours a day (6 weeks per year) looking for things - Organized World.comThe typical executive wastes 150 hours a year
Axiom Bank, N.A. Appoints Bryan Scheff As VP, Commercial Relationship Manager
ORLANDO, Fla. (Feb. 21, 2020) – Axiom Bank N.A., a Maitland-based, leading community bank, recently named Bryan Scheff as VP, Commercial Relationship Manager. In this role, Mr. Scheff will develop relationships with Axiom’s commercial partners in Central Florida. “With almost two decades of commercial lending experience, Bryan has the skills to provide customized solutions that meet our clients’ financial needs,” said Ted Sheppe, Executive Vice President, Commercial Banking of Axiom Bank. “His expertise
Tech Rage IT Launches Community Initiative to Connect and Support Business Organizations
UCF Business Incubation Client company joins Orlando Inc. and Seminole County Chamber Winter Springs, Fla., February 13, 2020 – For the last five years, Tech Rage IT has focused on connecting with business leaders in the area and supporting the region’s small business community. This month, with a new name and new services, the company has joined two of the region’s largest business organizations, Orlando Inc. and Seminole County Chamber. In addition, Matt Rose, Director of Technology Services will
Pride Home Opener Announced
Orlando Pride will open its 2020 NWSL season on Sunday, April 19 at Exploria Stadium. This will mark the fifth-consecutive home opener presented by Orlando Health, with the Pride set to host Sky Blue FC. This offseason, the Pride welcomed marquee additions to their roster in USWNT defender and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion Emily Sonnett, as well as New Zealand Women’s National Team captain Ali Riley. 2020 will also see the return of a number of key players, including six-time FIFA Women’s World
Panera Bread To Open New Drive-thru At Lake Mary Bakery-café
The café’s existing favorites will be available in the drive-thru. Lake Mary, Fla. – Covelli Family Limited Partnership (CFLP), part of the largest franchisee of Panera, LLC, is pleased to announce the opening of its new drive-thru located at 864 S. Sun Dr. in Lake Mary on Wednesday, Feb. 26. Panera Bread will celebrate the drive-thru grand opening with several special offers and giveaways, valid for use in the drive-thru only through Sunday, March 1. Offers are limited to one coupon per
Fresh Kitchen Expands In Central Florida With Ninth Location To Open In Lake Mary On February 24
LAKE MARY, Fla. - (Jan. TK, 2020) — Fresh Kitchen (FK), the popular build-your-own-bowl quick-service restaurant concept, will open its third Central Florida location in Lake Mary, just north of Orlando. The restaurant will open its doors Monday, February 24 for both lunch and dinner as well as take-out orders and group catering. This will be the ninth location for the brand within Florida. FK reimagined fast food when they opened their first restaurant to overwhelming success in Tampa, Florida’s
Strategies for Preventing Heart Attacks
In America, every one in four deaths is caused by heart disease, for both men and women. This challenges us to take charge of our risk factors and making our heart health a priority. Simple steps and precautions can lower your chances of experiencing a heart attack. Here are some quick tips to achieve a healthier heart and a healthier you in body, mind and spirit. Get regular blood pressure checks. High blood pressure might not show any obvious symptoms. That’s why getting routine blood pressure checks
Hiring Company Drivers
Whether your employees drive a company vehicle or you allow them to drive their personal vehicle, you should have a driving policy in place that provides guidelines for what is acceptable behavior while driving, not only for your business necessity, but also for the safety of your employee and other drivers on the road.Click here to read more.EAF is a non-profit corporate membership-based association dedicated to serving the business and HR communities with world-class HR tools, hotlines & legal compliance,
Leadership Seminole Class 29 Presents The Most Anticipated Event Of The Year
To benefit the Canterbury Retreat and Conference Centers Challenge Course and provide universal access. Come out for a once in a lifetime opportunity to see retired WWE Superstar and current Mayor of Longwood Matt “The Blueprint” Morgan battle Seminole County Supervisor of Elections Chris “The Supervisor” Anderson and his manager Ben “Boom Boom” Paris, former mayor and current City of Longwood Commissioner. Enjoy wrestling, magic, music, silent auction and so much more while sponsoring a great
UCF Forum: Doctor Killed by Coronavirus Will Long be Revered for Trying to Protect Others
By Lillian Hernandez CaraballoUCF Forum columnistIt was like something out of a movie: A doctor tries to warn the world about a disease spreading around the globe – but he was not heard.In this real-life case, Chinese authorities accused this doctor of spreading rumors and panic about the deadly coronavirus, and he was forced to sign a document for “making false comments.” But he valiantly continued his work at a hospital where, shortly after, he contracted the virus. As China started feeling the physical,
Central Florida Regional Hospital Hosts Free Presentation On Atrial Fibrillation
Central Florida Regional Hospital will host an informative presentation on atrial fibrillation (AFib), including common misconceptions and treatment options. The lecture will be presented by cardiologist Jorge Diaz, MD. Space is limited for this free event. WHERE: Central Florida Regional Hospital 1401 West Seminole Blvd.
Ken Countess Podcast Episode: How A Corporate Marketer Transitioned to Successful Solopreneur
In episode 11 of the “Market Your Business Like A Pro” podcast, Ken Countess interviews award-winning author Michael Katz ORLANDO, FL – February 14, 2020 – Transitioning from corporate marketer to being in business for yourself can be stressful and challenging. But it can also be highly rewarding. In Episode 11 of the “Market Your Business Like A Pro” podcast, award-winning author Michael Katz shares his story with Ken Countess. He talks about how he made the transition from corporate life to
The Ultimate Biohack Arrives in Lake Mary, Florida
OsteoStrong® uses their Spectrum equipment, a system where members exude approximately 20 minutes of effort, one time per week, to strengthen the foundation of the body – the skeletal system. It is not a gym, diet, supplement, pharmaceutical, or medical treatment. It is a unique and strategic system that improves bone density, balance, athletic performance and lessens joint/back pain for individuals of all ages. Using a process know as Osteogenic Loading, OsteoStrong ® delivers quick, painless,
Insurance Office of America Returns as Presenting Sponsor of the Golf FORE Education Tournament
We’re excited to have Insurance Office of America join us as the Presenting Sponsor for the tenth consecutive year. This annual event is a fun way to support the students and teachers of SCPS! Spend the day on the golf course while enjoying delicious food, drinks and prizes! Make plans to join us Monday, March 23, 2020 at the Legacy Club at Alaqua Lakes. This event has sold out three years in a row so don’t delay, sign up today! “Supporting improved student learning and the educators vital to academic
LegalShield is honored to be featured in the Top Quality List of Benefit Providers for the second year in a row
Everything Benefits’ news release includes a quote from Mandy Simmons, LegalShield Vice President of Business Solutions Service: "We're honored to be featured on Everything Benefits' list of top-quality benefit providers for the second consecutive year and among such great companies. At LegalShield, we're committed to offering our group clients and members a seamless, top notch experience and our partnership with Everything Benefits has allowed us to further succeed in doing so.” You can read the full
Spring Break and Summer Camp at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
SANFORD, Fla., February 13, 2020—Parents looking to fill in children's school-break schedules can get a head start by registering them for camps at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. "Zoo camp is a great hands-on learning experience while school is out," said Dino Ferri, the Zoo's CEO. "It's a fun opportunity for the kids in our community to be outdoors, meet lots of animals, learn about the Zoo, and make memories." From March 16 through March 20, the Zoo is offering spring break camps for
CareerSource Central Florida Redesigns Website: Consumers Access Career Experts and Complimentary Talent Solutions
Orlando, Fla., February 13, 2020 --- CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) has launched a newly redesigned website, www.CareerSourceCentralFlorida.com, in a move aimed at leveraging value and better-servicing its increasing customer base of career seekers and businesses. “In today’s environment, launching a website isn’t anything new, however, at CSCF we are laser-focused on delivering talent solutions that help our audiences achieve meaningful and sustainable careers. The website is a critical platform to
Return to Daylight Saving Time - Begins New Landscaping Watering Schedule in Seminole County
Daylight Saving Time Water Restrictions Start March 8, 2020. The following lawn watering rules will be in effect for Seminole County: *No watering is allowed between 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. on any day of the week. *Residents with odd street addresses water on Wednesday and Saturday. *Residents with even street addresses water on Thursday and Sunday. *Reclaimed water customers may irrigate twice a week year round. *Non-Residential customers irrigate on Tuesday and Friday. THESE RESTRICTIONS ARE
Central Florida Regional Hospital Hosts Presentation On Living A Heart-healthy Lifestyle
WHAT: Central Florida Regional Hospital will host an informative presentation with tips for living a heart-healthy life. The lecture will be presented by cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon Tuan Nguyenduy, MD. Space is limited for this free event. WHERE: Central Florida Regional Hospital 1401 West Seminole Blvd.
Oviedo Medical Center Hosts Free Lecture On Weight Loss Options
WHAT: Oviedo Medical Center will host an informative presentation about modern weight loss options. Topics will include best health practices, surgical options and key insights into weight loss. The lecture will be presented by general surgeon Harold Neyra, DO. Space is limited for this free event. A light dinner will be served. WHERE: Oviedo Medical Center
Seminole Science Students Take Home Honors at Math Competition
Middle school students at the STEM-focused Seminole Science Charter School recently showed off their smarts at a math competition hosted by Heathrow Elementary. The SSCS mathletes took home several honors – Sixth grader Advay B. won second place. Seventh graders Amit P., Udeshya S., Om T., and Da’ron S. came in fifth, fourth, second and first place (respectively). The middle school brainiacs are looking forward to continued learning and competing with their peers at the next competition in a few
‘Godspell’ Brings Parables And Pop Music Together At Seminole State College
The Center for Fine and Performing Arts at Seminole State College of Florida will present “Godspell,” a long-running off-Broadway production, Feb. 20-22. The musical features a small group of people that help Jesus Christ tell different parables through games, stories and comedy. The song styles range from pop to vaudeville as the performers work their way through Christ’s life, bringing his messages of kindness, tolerance and love to the forefront. The concertized musical will feature SeminoleSound,
Ken Countess Launches Online Email Marketing Academy
Online course enables small businesses to learn how to use email marketing anytime, anywhere on any device LONGWOOD, FL — February 12, 2020 – Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, has launched the Email Marketing Online Academy. As a Certified Email Marketing Expert, Countess has created an online course that enables those who want to learn how do use email marketing to attend the class anywhere they have an internet connection. “We’ve had over 12,000 attendees of my online
Celebrate Science at the Super STEM Blast Off Event at Oviedo Mall
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oviedo, FL – February 12, 2020 – Science rocks at the Super STEM Blast Off event at Oviedo Mall, Saturday, February 15 from 10:30 am-12 pm, presented by Mad Science. The Super STEM Blast Off event will include fun, interactive science stations, a special science show and a rocket launch (weather permitting). The event will run from 10:30 am-12 pm, located in the west wing near O2B Kids. The event is free to the public and
Disney Wishes Help Get a Life Back on Track
Have you ever wondered what happens to the coins used to make wishes in fountains and other water features all over the Walt Disney World Resort property? Well for the last several years, those coins have helped make wishes come true for the children and teens served by Embrace Families. Last year, Disney Cast Members voted to designate their “wishing well” funds to make sure that our youth services team has the resources they need to help our older youth get back on their feet when they need it the most.
Leidos joins UCF Innovation Districts Enterprise Partnership Program
Global science and technology leader to collaborate with life sciences companies as they come to market Orlando, Fla. (February 11, 2020) – The University of Central Florida (UCF) Innovation Districts today announced Leidos (NYSE: LDOS), a FORTUNE® 500 science and technology leader, as its first Enterprise Partner under the university’s newly launched Enterprise Partnership program. Under the program, life sciences companies within the Innovation Districts will have the opportunity to work with the
How Giving and Receiving Love Improves Heart Health
Hearts are the universal sign for love. But did you know love is actually good for your heart? Strong, healthy relationships are at the center of our social health, and how connected we feel to our friends, family and community have a big impact on our physical health. Read on to discover seven ways giving and receiving love can make your heart healthy and strong.Loved Ones Can Help Lower Your Blood Pressure Think about the last time you snuggled with a loved one, all warm and cozy. We know the
McCoy Federal Credit Union Business Enrichment Day
February 27, 2020 9am - 5pmMcCoy Federal Credit Union Central Florida Parkway Location 2075 Central Florida Pkwy Orlando, FL 32837Introducing McCoy Federal Credit Union’s Business Enrichment Day! Whether you are a seasoned business owner or just starting out, McCoy offers consultations to guide you through Business Account and Lending solutions tailored to your needs. Each month a McCoy Branch will host a Business Enrichment Day where you can meet McCoy’s experts to discuss how to go forward with a new
The Goose Sense of a Team
Rise and Shine CF, LLC Have you ever seen geese fly south for the winter? You will notice they fly in a V formation. Science has discovered why they fly in that manner. As each bird flaps its wing, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in formation, the whole flock adds at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and quickly gets back into
Avon-A Beautiful You Begins Fundraiser
As of February 1st, Chamber member Howie Appel, your Local Avon Representative, has teamed up with Chamber members, Terri Jones Robbins and Cindy Crespo Whitaker of BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation, an American Childhood Cancer Organization, to create a major fundraiser. BASE Camp offers programs to our families no matter where they are on their journey: from diagnosis to completion of treatment and beyond, celebrating milestones, providing nourishment, encouragement and strength to finish the
Membership Certificates Presented To First Member of The Freedom Brigade
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (02/07/20)Harry ParkhurstThe Cranefeather Society 407 371 5180 (cell) hfparkhurst88@gmail.com Altamonte Springs, Florida: Harry Parkhurst, president of The Cranefeather Society, presentated The Membership Certificate and Liberty Warrior Bronze Award in The Freedom Brigade to the first official Brigade member. “It is always a special occasion to acknowledge the first individual that believes in and joins a program you have created,” Harry stated.Accepting the award was Lauren
The Reserves Network has won ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Talent Award
The Reserves Network (TRN), a leading staffing provider for the office, industrial, professional and technical markets, has won ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Talent Award for providing superior service to their employees. Best of Staffing® results are based off of Net Promoter Scores (NPS), a simple metric based on a survey question asking customers and employees how likely they are to recommend a company on a numeric 1-10 scale, ten being extremely likely and zero being not likely at all. This score
Girl Scouts Robotics Team Joins NAWBO Orlando’s PropelHER Pitch Competition
The Girl Scouts of Citrus and the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Orlando meet annually during the Orlando Business Journal’s Mentoring Monday event, but this year the organizations added another great event to their February calendar. For the first time, one of the robotics teams will be stepping onto Full Sail Live’s stage in Winter Park to pitch their innovative technology concept on February 18th from 9 AM – 12:00 PM. The Girl Scouts have an entrepreneurial focus and
SCPS Names 2021 Teacher of the Year
(SANFORD, Fla.) On Friday, February 7th, Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) named its 2021 Teacher of the Year, Mr. William Furiosi of Oviedo High School! As part of this prestigious award, Mr. Furiosi will receive a Teacher of the Year ring from Herff Jones, a Disney Annual Pass for himself and each member of his immediate family, and $1,000 from the Foundation for SCPS. Plus, a 1-year lease to a new car courtesy of Carl Black Chevrolet/Buick/GMC. In addition, he will go on to represent Seminole County
Three Central Florida Children’s Hospitals and Their Patients to Soon Benefit from Magical Disney Transformations
Helping children and families facing serious illness dates back to when Walt Disney himself joined animators and characters at children’s hospitals to bring patients a little more comfort and joy. Sharing the magic of Disney with children continues today as part of Disney’s philanthropic and outreach commitment to dedicate resources that deliver comfort and inspiration to children and families. Through this five-year, $100 million investment, transformations to the patient experience will take place in
Award-winning Artist’s Evocative Chalk Work Coming To Seminole State
SANFORD, Fla. (Feb. 6, 2020) - Artist Susan Hensel’s gallery exhibit “Eros and Thanatos” will be on display at Seminole State College of Florida’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts from Feb. 13 – March 16. The exhibit features chalkboard images that incorporate oval, floral and undersea themes that are evocative of birth, life and pleasure. According to Hensel’s website, the artwork in the series is “a consideration of beauty while still acknowledging pain and brokenness.” Hensel received her Bachelor of
UCF Forum: The Agony of Defeat
By Peter Telep UCF Forum columnist I have a confession to make: I’m not a true sports fan. I’d love to be one. I wish had what it takes. But I don’t. Not yet. I’m still struggling with this, and out of a deep sense of guilt I wanted to be honest with you. I’m just a poser in a UCF Knights shirt. I feel ashamed. I want to love my team. I really do. But I need help. Let’s reset the play clock a few years to the days when the UCF Knights football team couldn’t win a game. Like many of my colleagues I had
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens to Offer Exclusive Beer Pairing Dinner as part of Brews Around the Zoo 2020
SANFORD, Fla., February 6, 2020—The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens will be hosting the Taste of the Wild Beer Pairing Dinner, as part of Brews Around the Zoo, Presented by Wayne Densch, Inc. This limited seating dinner, will feature an eclectic menu from Blue Springs Brewing head chef Brian Lamparski. This multi-course meal will be paired with specialty beers from Blue Springs Brewing in Orange City. The Taste of the Wild Beer Pairing Dinner will take place at the Zoo on Friday, April 10 from 6:30
éclat Law Celebrates Grand Opening of ART@éclat
Law Firm in Cranes Roost Unveils Art Gallery Altamonte Springs, FL. ART@éclat is a one-of-a-kind Contemporary Art Gallery located at the office of éclat Law in scenic Cranes Roost in Altamonte Springs. This gallery is a passion of éclat Law’s Foundation for Community Action, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to empower the success of their community through pro-bono legal services to all Central Florida communities, fundraising and no cost legal services for Veterans,
GuideWell Hosts Member Care Specialist Open House
GuideWell will host an open house at 12:00 p.m. EST Thursday, Feb. 20, to showcase its Member Care Specialist roles. The event will be at the Florida Health Care Plan office in Lake Mary, 707 Platinum Point, Lake Mary, FL 32746. Details can be found HERE. RSVP preferred. Attendees will have the opportunity to talk with hiring managers, employees in customer service and ask questions of our recruiting team about the application/interview process. GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation is a not-for-profit
Traits for Success!
A Shining Moment from Rise and Shine CF, LLC. Let’s take a moment and look behind the curtains. What allows a professional person the ability to lead, maintain their position get promoted or get a better position? Most people say it’s in who you know that good ole’ fashioned nepotism. In all the positions I have held only two were due to knowing the right people. The rest were due to my performance. Recently, I wrote a book called Silencing the Chatter Monsters-Move Beyond Your Fear. It is based on an
Ken Countess Is Again Named A Constant Contact Certified Solution Provider
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Central Florida marketing expert helps businesses and nonprofits consistently achieve meaningful marketing results ORLANDO, Fla. — February 5, 2020 – Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, has again become a Certified Solution Provider of Constant Contact, an Endurance International Group company and a leader in email marketing solutions. As a Certified Solution Provider, Countess consistently demonstrates in-depth knowledge of the Constant Contact email marketing
Brews Around the Zoo Returns to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
SANFORD, Fla., February 4, 2020—Brews Around the Zoo, presented by Wayne Densch, Inc., is returning to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens for its 13th year on Saturday, April 11, 2020 from 6 PM to 10 PM. Over 1,800 guests are expected to attend this adults-only night at the Zoo featuring 16 beer stations with over 30 different craft beers, live music, and special animal encounters. Tickets for the event include beer samples. Food will be available for purchase. Tickets will go on sale Monday,
Nailed It DIY Studio to Open February 2020 in Lake Mary, FL
Nailed It DIY Studio announces today that it will open its #17 studio location in Lake Mary, FL, 245 Wheelhouse Lane Suite 1461 Griffin Farm Plaza, February 2020. Nailed It DIY Studio began in Fort Mill, SC in 2014. Founded by Shannon Evans, the original DIY studio concept allowed clients to complete custom, one of a kind home décor projects, in studio, without the hassle of sourcing products on their own. Joined by business partner and co-owner, Misty Grant, the first official Nailed It DIY Studio
“Dance, Dream & Inspire” Competition Raises More Than $200,000 To Help Local Children At Risk Of Abuse, Neglect
Stacia Wake Wins Seventh Annual Dance Competition ORLANDO, Fla. (Feb. 4, 2020) – Stacia Wake and her partner Mike Foncannon danced their way to victory at the “Dance, Dream & Inspire” charity competition, helping raise more than $200,000 for a local charity that serves vulnerable children and their families. The annual gala benefits Embrace Families, Central Florida’s nonprofit lead agency overseeing foster care and other services for childhood victims of abuse, neglect and abandonment. This year’s
Impower’s Village Program Awarded $50,00 OMYF Grant, Announces Dates For Annual Fundraising Breakfast
Longwood, FL – (February 3, 2020) – IMPOWER was thrilled to be one of only 16 Central Florida organizations awarded a grant from the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation at its January 22 All Star Draft Party. The $50,000 grant will support the work of IMPOWER’s Village Transitional Housing Program, which helps to transform the lives of homeless and at-risk youth.“We so appreciate the Magic organization’s commitment to our community and are proud to be a nonprofit partner,” said IMPOWER President & CEO Anna
Natural Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a common (and serious) medical condition that affects roughly one in three adults in the United States. Left unchecked, chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) can cause heart damage, stroke and heart attack. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it’s important to work closely with your doctor to find a way to safely manage your condition. Lowering blood pressure isn’t just about taking a pill. It’s about making changes to your lifestyle and improving your physical,
Einstein Advisors Secures Walmart Location for Medicare OEP
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) ended on December 7th, but Medicare Advantage Plan clients have an opportunity to change plans again, during the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) which runs January- March. Einstein Advisors secured a local Walmart location for AEP, and have been extended in that location for the duration of OEP. ____________________________________________ Most Medicare recipients understand that they have an opportunity every fall to make changes to the Medicare coverage. That
UCF Forum: To Win at Sports, You've Got to Get in the Game – and Don’t Give Up
By Brenda S. Thompson UCF Forum columnist After lacing up my Nike sneakers last Saturday morning, I headed to the nearest neighborhood courts to play my favorite sport: tennis. It was a perfect day to be outside enjoying the fresh air, sunny skies, and cool, breezy temperatures. I've been a tennis fan for decades, and love to watch matches just as much as play the game, and over the years I’d say I’ve become a pretty good tennis player. I often wonder, though, how I acquired such a passion for this
Seminole State College Welcomes New Director Of Campus Safety And Security
SANFORD, Fla. (Jan. 31, 2020) – Seminole State College of Florida has welcomed Miguel Sierra as director of campus safety and security.Sierra, who began his new role Jan. 6, has extensive experience in law enforcement, emergency and personnel management, and community outreach. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Sierra joined Seminole State after nearly a decade at the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO). At SCSO he rose through the ranks to become a lieutenant most recently serving as the Seminole Neighborhood
Tech Rage IT Receives Wordmark Registration for “We Prevent Tech Rage” from USPTO
Winter Springs, Fla., January 29, 2020 – New Seminole County Chamber member Tech Rage IT is proud to announce it was recently awarded a word mark for its signature tag line “We Prevent Tech Rage.” “Everyone is familiar with ‘Tech Rage’ when they can not get their technology to work right,” says Erica Martinez-Rose, CEO, Tech Rage IT. “We’ve used this tag line for a while because it absolutely encompasses what we do – prevent ‘Tech Rage.’” Tech Rage IT was founded in 2015 to help businesses ride a new
Lake Mary, Florida Financial Planner and Wealth Advisor Broadcasts His Latest Retirement and Tax Discussion with his new Retirement and Your Taxes Guide to thrive in retirement!
Best selling author and top financial planner in Lake Mary, Florida, Chuck Oliver takes to the radio air waves to discuss how a thriving retirement can be obtainable despite Congress passing their latest higher tax target legislation. On January 25th and January 26th, 2020 Chuck Oliver, owner and founder of The Hidden Wealth Solution, broadcasted his most recent retirement discussion in Orlando, FL, Tampa, FL, Jacksonville, FL, Dayton, OH and Phoenix, AZ. Oliver discussed how the SECURE Act will affect
Addition Financial Cure Bowl All-Stars Game Takes Place at Showalter Field
Lake Mary, Fla. (January 29, 2020) – For the second consecutive year, Addition Financial served as the presenting sponsor of the Cure Bowl All-Stars Game, hosted by the Orlando Sports Foundation.The Cure Bowl All-Stars Game, which took place in December 2019, featured players, training aides, cheerleaders and marching band from high schools in Central Florida. The game was between Orange County Public Schools and Seminole County Public Schools, but the teams were also supplemented with players from private
How to Earn Repeat Sales and Customer Loyalty
1 Hour Webinar Will Teach Small Business Owners How To Grow With Simple, Yet Effective Tactics ORLANDO, FL — January 29, 2020 – Repeat sales and customer loyalty are undoubtedly some of the most critical aspects of a small business being sustainable and able to experience healthy growth. On Wednesday, February 5, 2020, The Countess Group’s Managing Director, Ken Countess, will conduct a free 1 hour webinar entitled: Small Business Strategies for Earning Repeat Sales and Customer Loyalty. In this
Altamonte MD - Now Open 7 Days A Week
Open 7 Days/ Week – Primary Care – Dermatology – Laboratory Altamonte MD is happy to announce that they are NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK from 8AM-6PM. That's right, the residents of Seminole County and its' surrounding areas now have the opportunity to be seen by a Primary Care Physician any day of the week! Altamonte MD invites members of the Seminole County Chamber of Commerce to a night of FOOD, DRINKS, & PRIZES! Join the healthcare providers & medical staff of Altamonte MD, February 5th 2020 from
Primary Partners, Florida Blue Program Lowers Costs while Improving Patient Care
Primary Partners, an integrated group of independent primary care physicians and specialists in Central Florida, announces it has achieved lower health care costs and fewer hospital admissions, readmissions and emergency room visits as part of its participation in Florida Blue’s Accountable Provider Program. Florida Blue, the state’s Blue Cross Blue Shield plan, and Primary Partners have been working together to improve effective care delivery through monitoring emergency room usage by patients and
Florida Blue Earns Top Score in 2020 Corporate Equality Index
Company designated as Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality Jacksonville, Fla. – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced that it received a score of 100 percent on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2020 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a national benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices pertinent to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer employees. Florida Blue joins the ranks of more than 680 major U.S. businesses that earned top marks this
Prevention and Management of Cardiovascular Disease in Seniors
Heart disease is America’s No. 1 killer, but a significant number of these deaths are preventable. The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that 43.7 million Americans age 60 and above have one or more types of cardiovascular disease, such as heart disease, heart attack, stroke and heart failure. About two-thirds of cardiovascular disease deaths occur in people over 75. Aging can cause changes in the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk for cardiovascular disease. The Centers for
Touch a Truck, Tag Day and Dog Adoptions
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (January 28, 2020)-- Join Animal Services for Tag Day this weekend during the Seminole County FL Touch A Truck Event!$5 Rabies Vaccines$10 Microchipping$20 Dog Adoptions Dogs or cats must be over 4 months old and in good health to receive $5 rabies vaccines. Microchipping includes a pre-paid registration for one year. Dog adoptions will be available both at the Touch-a-Truck event and at the shelter for $20 on Saturday. Seminole County residents must also have a County pet license
Seminole Science Students Take Home Championships At Dance Competition
Seminole Science Charter School’s brand new STEM dance team, The Ocean Rays, competed in their inaugural dance competition this month. The team won double state championships at the Spirit Shine Celebration hosted at Hagerty High School, placing in both the Junior Hip Hop and Junior Miscellaneous divisions. Founded in November 2019, 20 students in Grades 4-8 have been practicing four days a week in preparation for their first competition. Since the team was established, Ami Berg, dance coach and
Seven SCPS Schools Named National Magnet Schools of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America
Seven Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) and their programs have been named National Magnet Schools of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools. These Seven Schools and their programs include: Midway Elementary School of Arts, Goldsboro Elementary Magnet School, Seminole High School Academy of Health Careers, Seminole High School-International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, Lyman High School Academy of Engineering, Milwee Middle School
Crooms Academy & Sanford Middle Named National Magnet Schools of Excellence by Magnet Schools of America
Crooms Academy of Information Technology and Sanford Middle School, S.T.E.M. Magnets have both been named National Magnet Schools of Excellence by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools. The Principals will be recognized and receive a National Magnet School of Excellence Merit Award on behalf of their school during an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s 38th National Conference hosted by Clark County School District in Clark County, Nevada,
Aviation Day at Orlando Sanford Airport a Huge Success!
More than 5,000 people attended the 3rd Annual Aerospace and Aviation Day at Orlando Sanford International Airport. From parachuting Chick-fil-a cows to a United States Air Force C-17 there was something there for every aviation enthusiast. Two massive Air Force planes were an addition to the event this year and gave people a chance to see a cargo hold that could carry more than 100,000 pounds. Also on the airfield today, their police and fire departments, vintage WWII Bombers and commercial airplanes
Central Florida Regional Hospital Welcomes New Cardiovascular And Thoracic Surgeon
SANFORD, Fla. (Jan. 23, 2020) — Cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon Tuan Nguyenduy, M.D., has joined Florida Heart & Lung Institute of Central Florida and the medical staff at Central Florida Regional Hospital. “Just like every heart specialist at the Florida Heart & Lung Institute, Dr. Nguyenduy is committed to excellence,” said Trey Abshier, CEO, Central Florida Regional Hospital. “His expertise empowers us to continue delivering the highest level of cardiothoracic care available in Seminole and west
Seminole State Speaker Series Presents Author Dr. Kinitra Brooks
SANFORD, Fla. (Jan. 22, 2020) – Seminole State College of Florida's Speaker Series, in partnership with the Zora! Festival of the Arts and Humanities, will present Dr. Kinitra Brooks who specializes in the study of black women, genre fiction and popular culture, on Wednesday, Jan. 29, at 7 p.m.Dr. Brooks is the Audrey and John Leslie Endowed Chair in Literary Studies in the Department of English at Michigan State University and is the author of “The Lemonade Reader: Beyoncé, Black Feminism and
Check out The Shift- Choreographers Showcase
Orlando, Fla. – Emotions Dance Company, a professional contemporary dance company that focuses on social and environmental awareness through the art of dance, is proud to announce its ninth annual installment of “The Shift- Choreographers Showcase.” The Company brings this event to Central Florida up to three times per year. The January showcase will take place on Friday January 31, 2020 and Saturday February 1, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. both nights. The showcase will be held at the Orlando Shakespeare’s Mandell
Downtown Innovation District Opens New Incubator Space on Church Street
New district adds key element to serve growing companies focused on key, targeted technologies Orlando, Fla. (January 17, 2020) – The UCF Downtown Innovation District added a key component to its unique business offerings, the establishment of a new incubator space in the heart of the downtown business district. The new space, located in the Church Street Exchange building, provides an option for Innovation District clients to utilize a wide range of programs as they continue to grow their
Crooms Academy to Host ''Techfest'' 2020
(SANFORD, FL) Crooms Academy of Information Technology (AOIT) will host their annual “TechFest” conference on Thursday, March 12, 2020 from 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Crooms AOIT located at 2200 Historic Goldsboro Blvd., Sanford, FL, 32771. Students at the conference will attend two workshop sessions to learn about the hi-tech workplace and necessary professional skills, attend a keynote session, and visit an exhibit hall with more than 30 sponsors. With more than 20 businesses from
The Orlando Law Group, PL Hosts Back-To-Back Seminar in Seminole County
Orlando, FL (January 17, 2020) – Join the Orlando Law Group for a back-to-back seminar are January 30, 2020, from 5:30–8 pm at Rasmussen college, room 150. There will be three different sessions covering wills & estate planning, auto policies, and student loans. Attorney Jeffrey Smith will be covering estate planning from 5:30 to 6:30. Within this topic, he will go over living wills, trusts, estate planning, power of attorney, and his best tips to avoid probate. From 6:30–7 pm, Attorney Brian Dunmire
AdventHealth Presents Train the Trainer Event
Don’t miss our upcoming Train the Trainer for one of our Evidence Based programs…The StressRecovery Effect. This first training of the year is coming up on February 26-27th. We have seen amazing results within our own and outside organizations who have rolled this program out to their employees and wanted to provide you with this opportunity. A brief description is below. Avoiding the “one-size-fits-all” approach so common with most stress management programs, Drs. Tibbits and Hall have
SCPS Teachers Job Fair - March 7, 2020
(SANFORD, FL) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) will host a Teacher Job Fair on Saturday, March 7, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Lake Howell High School located at 4200 Dike Road, Winter Park, FL 32792. School Administrators from each school site will be interviewing and offering teacher contracts for instructional critical shortage areas for the 2020-2021 school year on the spot. Pre-registration for the job fair is required and can be found by visiting the district’s
UCF Forum: Why Are Adults Without Children Sometimes Made to Feel Incomplete?
By Syretta SpearsUCF Forum columnist For generations, our society has been led to believe that an individual’s life must be comprised of marriage, children, a house with a white picket fence and other “traditional” things. Today, there are a growing number of adults who do not have children for various reasons, but are productive members of society. Even so, they often seem to be deliberately or unconsciously judged by others. The objectification and scrutiny that some women are unfortunately subjected
You're invited Altamonte MD's Open House!
Altamonte MD Open HouseOpen 7 Days/ Week – Primary Care – Dermatology – Laboratory Altamonte MD invites members of the Seminole County Chamber of Commerce to a night of FOOD, DRINKS, & PRIZES! Join the healthcare providers & medical staff of Altamonte MD February 5th, 2020 from 4PM-8PM to tour their new multi-specialty office; featuring Dermatology, Laboratory, & 7 days a week Primary Care. We will be offering free skin checks while you learn about our medical and cosmetic dermatology services. You
Facial Composite Made of Unidentified Skeletal Remains
Seminole Co. Fla., (January, 13 2020) – Detectives are releasing a new composite image based on skeletal remains discovered in a wooded area of Seminole County two years ago.On September 23, 2018 the remains of an adult white male between 30-40 years of age were discovered near a homeless camp in the 2600 block of Richmond Ave. in unincorporated Sanford. There was no identification found.Based on remains found at the scene, investigators working with the Volusia County Medical Examiner’s Office have
Vaping in Adolescents – Fact vs. Fiction. What you need to know
Please join the Orange County Drug-Free Coalition/Health Services, Physicians Society of Central Florida, and Nemours Children's Hospital for a community forum on Vaping. On Monday, January 27, 2020, at Orange County Administration Building located at 201 S. Rosalind Ave., Orlando, FL., 1st Floor, BCC Chambers at 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm. See attached flyer.This community forum will provide information on vaping and our youth, facts vs. myths, and treatment. Hear from the experts from Nemours, Children’s
Nemours Honored as Top Children’s Hospital by the Leapfrog Group
Orlando, Fla. (December 17, 2019) – For the third time in its seven years of operation, Nemours Children’s Hospital was named a national Top Children’s Hospital by the Leapfrog Group. Nemours is one of only 10 children’s hospitals to make the prestigious list of 120 hospitals in 28 states. The Leapfrog Top Hospital award is widely acknowledged as one of the most respected honors that hospitals can receive in the country. Performance across many areas of hospital care is considered in establishing the
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction breaks ground for new $15M Providence Reserve apartments in Lakeland
For Immediate Release January 12, 2020 Contact: Ken Cristol, Cristol Marketing Company 407-774-2515 (Authorized agency for Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction) ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla.– Roger B. Kennedy Construction broke ground for the new 139-unit Providence Reserve apartments in Lakeland, its second senior living community for Banyan Development, under a $15 million contract. Located at 1175 Providence Reserve Drive, the 142,485-square-foot community will include three
SCPS Launches New Physics Bus
(SANFORD, FL) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) will be launching its new Physics Bus at a ribbon cutting event on Tuesday, January 21st from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. This event will be held at Hamilton Elementary Magnet School of Engineering & Technology located at 1501 E. 8th St., Sanford, FL 32771. This new bus will provide students with physics experiences based on 4th and 5th grade math and science standards. This bus will be making scheduled stops at SCPS elementary schools while giving students
SCPS Grad Rate Increases To 92.8% For 2018-2019
(SANFORD, FL) – Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce that its Graduation Rate for the 2018-2019 School Year was 92.8%. That’s #1 out of all Central Florida districts, #1 out of the 17 largest districts, and #4 out of all Florida districts. In addition, that’s an increase of 1.1% above the previous year (91.7%, 2017-2018) and remains 5.9% above the state average (86.9%).
Want to see some amazing STEM Fair Projects? Be a judge and see the future of STEM at Seminole Science!
Seminole Science STEM Charter School is about to embark on its Fifth Annual STEM Fair. Seminole Science is a unique school that is proud of its large and diverse student body. Our mission is to take advantage of a higher learning collaborative environment to enhance our goal for our elementary and middle school students to apply the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math as they become college and career ready. A STEM Fair is an essential key to understanding the scientific method or
Orlando Business Journal's 2020 Day of Empowerment -- a marriage of Mentoring Monday with the Women Who Mean Business Awards.
Orlando Business Journal hosts its inaugural DAY OF EMPOWERMENT - a marriage of Mentoring Monday with the Women Who Mean Business Awards. This premier event will take place on February 24th and will include a women’s expo. Attendees of the 2020 Day of Empowerment seek solutions to the everyday challenges they face. Expo booths are available, When you purchase a booth, you’re not just purchasing real estate in the exhibitor hall, you’re becoming part of one of the most comprehensive and dynamic events in
Register Now in AdventHealth’s WholeMe Genomics Study
Decode your DNA and get answers about your health, ancestry and personal preferences by joining the WholeMe genomics study conducted by AdventHealth and Helix.This free study is still accepting participants for a limited time!Sign up now to make an appointment for your required in-person enrollment. Enrollment takes up to one hour and is completely free, but requires that you are age 18 or older and have a Florida ID. Link for the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bA6Bwlh-QI0
Embrace Families Hosts Eighth Annual Dance, Dream & Inspire Ballroom Dance Competition
Local Celebrities Raise Funds to Support Children in Foster Care WHAT: Embrace Families – the region’s lead agency overseeing foster care and adoption in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties – will host its eighth annual Dance, Dream & Inspire ballroom dance and fundraising competition to benefit local children in foster care. Local “celebrities” will pair up with professional ballroom dance instructors to perform choreographed routines that
UCF Forum: There is Power Inherent in Working with Colleagues from Different Disciplines
By Chung ParkUCF Forum columnistWhen I was an early career academic, I started to hear and read the words “interdisciplinary research” everywhere.As human beings are wont to do, I immediately thought of myself, and wondered how it applied to me and what I was doing. The connections seemed so tenuous and often a little far out (such as coordinating a sound installation with a colleague from architecture), or perhaps too close to home (like partnering with someone in theater or dance).Was this push for
Longwood, Florida Auto and Homeowners Insurance Agency Has New Agent and Carriers
Pegasus Insurance announces adding not only 2 new carriers to their ever growing list, but a new agent as well! Longwood, Florida based Pegasus Insurance is an independent agency offering personal lines of insurance such as auto, home, business, and more. Kelsey Kryger, daughter of owner and founder Mike Kryger, began working at Pegasus back in April of this year as a Marketing Coordinator and Customer Service Rep. Entering the family business with little insurance knowledge, she sought to grow the
Avon’s Top Ten Best Sellers
I have been asked, “what are the top best sellers from Avon?” After 15 years, Avon has compiled a listing for representatives to use. Here they are:1) Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Expedition™ SPF 30 Family Size Pump Spray 255-259 - $13.992) Anew Hydra Fusion 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum 517-740 - $44.00 3) Anew Ultimate Multi-Performance Night Cream 157-162 - $23.994) Anew Clinical Eye Lift Pro Dual Eye System 327-391 - $40.005) Avon True Color Lipstick Rosewine 633-049 - $5.996) Magix Tint
Orlando Business Journal Recognizes Local Construction Entrepreneur for Changing the Nature of the Industry Through Generosity
Orlando, FL. Owner and CEO of Janney Construction Services LLC., Jonathan “Derek” Janney has built Janney Roofing with as much heart behind their mission as they have love and pride for Central Florida. Fifteen years ago, Janney set out to change the nature of the industry by consistently delivering a product and service that would be built on the principles of honesty, quality and integrity, cultivated with excellence and satisfaction in mind. As his portfolio grew to include commercial projects
Lake Mary Life Publishing Announces Seminole County Welcome Guide
[Lake Mary, FL, 1/17/20] Lake Mary Life Publishing – Seminole County's premier publishing and marketing company – is proud to announce the re-launch of Welcome to Seminole County Life, a valuable guide packed with helpful information for new homeowners and residents throughout the county. Because of the explosive growth in the community, more than 100 new residents, on average, are calling Seminole County home each week. These families need to know who to contact for a variety of services – from
Oviedo Medical Center Hosts A Free Lecture On Weight Loss Options
WHAT: Oviedo Medical Center will host an informative presentation about modern weight loss methods including best health practices, surgical options and key insights into weight loss. The lecture will be presented by Dr. Harold Neyra, General Surgeon. Space is limited for this free event. A light dinner will be served. WHERE: Oviedo Medical Center 8300 Red Bug Lake Road Oviedo, Fla. 32765 WHEN: Thursday, January 23 5:30 – 7:00
Open House At ECPI University
Orlando, FL - ECPI University Orlando campus will be hosting an Open House this Saturday, January 11th, 2020 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. ECPI University is located at 660 Century Point STE 1050, Lake Mary, FL 32746. This open house event is designed to show you how you can match your passion with a career direction. Come in for a campus tour and explore our beautiful facilities, interactive labs, student support services, and more. Come see how ECPI University’s hands-on learning environment empowers you to
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Register Now for the 2020 Leadership Summit on Friday, January 31
On Friday, January 31, Leadership Seminole will host the 2020 Leadership Summit, A Leader’s Vision: Helping Leaders See Clearly. Attendees will hear from visionaries and top leaders in various fields and learn how they gained clarity and a sense of purpose in their personal and professional lives. Featured speakers include: Rebekah Gregory, Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor Mark Hertling, U.S. Army General and CNN Analyst Kyle Johnson, CEO of Lighthouse Central Florida Bruce Melnick, Astronaut Next
Addition Financial Chief Development Officer to Receive Honorable Knight Award
Lake Mary, Fla. (January 6, 2020) – This February, the UCF College of Business will recognize Linh Dang, Addition Financial’s Chief Development Officer, with the Honorable Knight Award. The award honors alumni with more than 10 years of experience who have displayed excellence in their respective career paths. Linh, who received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from UCF in 1993, will be recognized at the 2020 College of Business Hall of Fame gala in Orlando. Since she first joined the Addition
UCF Forum: Why Do I Teach Journalism? Because it is More Important Now Than Ever
By Jeff Kunerth UCF Forum columnist I hear this all the time from former newspaper colleagues who have left as the newsroom has diminished over the years: How dare you teach journalism? Or this version: There are still students who want to be journalists? Really? I could answer that I teach journalism because there still are students who are curious about the world; who want to make a difference; who need to give voice to the voiceless; who find the lives of other people interesting and worth telling;
LegalShield Small Business Plan Named Top Choice
LegalShield for Small BusinessDecember 31, 2019 at 4:53 PM · We are excited to announce that The LegalShield Small Business Plan was recently named “Top Choice” by the National ChamberOfCommerce.org, which stacked us against 4 other competitors: RocketLawyer, LegalZoom, incfile.com, and UpCounsel. According to the website: "LegalShield seems to offer the best range of features at a great price point, with packages and plans suitable to different sizes of businesses and with a wide range of potential
Jewish Pavilion to hold Fashion Show At Dillard’s Department Store
Dillard’s Department store is delighted to host the Jewish Pavilion’s annual fashion show says Nancy Nguyen, Store Manager. The event will take place on Wednesday February 26, at 11 a.m. at the Altamonte Mall. The store has gone all out and arranged for a backdrop and stage and hired a DJ for this special event that will honor Penny Goldstein for her years of service to the Jewish community. Models will be active members of the Jewish Pavilion. The festivities will include a mimosa breakfast sponsored by
Right at Home of Longwood/Lake Mary Honored Among Top Home Care Agencies in the Nation – Named “Caring Star of 2020” for Senior Care Service Excellence by Caring.com.
Right at Home of Longwood/Lake Mary has been selected by Caring.com as one of America’s top-rated in-home care agencies with the website’s “Caring Star of 2020” recognition. Caring.com, a trusted resource for families to find in-home care for their senior loved ones, released its annual “Caring Stars of 2020” list, a reliable industry source of information that showcases the best senior care around the country every year. The list is based on consumer ratings and reviews and features the top in-home care
Seminole County Sports Tourism Announces Partnership With Full Sail University’s Dan Patrick School
Beginning in January 2020, Full Sail University’s Dan Patrick School of Sportscasting, in collaboration with Seminole County’s Sports Tourism Division, will provide students with hands-on opportunities to research, report and get on the field to cover youth athletic events held at the Boombah Sports Complex, Boombah Soldiers Creek Park, Sylvan Lake Park, Sanlando Park and other County facilities. Students enrolled in Full Sail's Sportscasting degree program will cover baseball, softball, soccer,
Axiom Bank, N.A. Hires Mercedis Couillard As VP, Payment Solutions Relationship Manager
ORLANDO, Fla. (Dec. 19, 2019) – Axiom Bank N.A., a Maitland-based, leading community bank, recently hired Mercedis Couillard as VP, Payment Solutions Relationship Manager. In this role, Couillard will work with Axiom Bank’s clients to provide adaptable payment solutions that further their business and financial goals. Couillard has over three decades of experience in financial management, customer relationship development, commercial payment solutions and sales. “Mercedis brings a wealth of knowledge
Signarama® Announces Grand Opening Of New Business In Lake Mary
Lake Mary, FL – Signarama®, a brand of United Franchise Group, and the largest signage company in the world has opened a new location in Lake Mary, Fl. Dan and Kendra Pearson are the latest franchisees to join the Signarama family and invite you to attend their grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. The grand opening of Signarama Lake Mary will be commemorated with an official ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Seminole State Welcomes New VP For Business Operations/CFO
SANFORD, Fla. (Dec. 19, 2019) – Seminole State College of Florida has welcomed Joe Mazur as vice president for business operations/chief financial officer.Mazur, who joined Seminole State Dec. 2, has more than 20 years of experience in higher education and in the 28-member Florida College System (FCS). He began his career as an accountant at the Florida Prepaid College program and then moved to positions at Florida Southwestern State College and Indian River State College. During that time, he also worked
UCF Forum: Go Ahead — It's OK to Allow Yourself to be Silly Sometimes
By Lillian M. Hernández Caraballo UCF Forum columnist Waiting in line at the movies, I saw a young woman do the “airplane run” over to the concession stand. You know, when you stretch out your arms to your sides and run forward, as if flying. She was running back to the counter after an employee called her back to get her popcorn that she had forgotten. She rolled her eyes and laughed, as if she felt silly for forgetting, then started airplane running, making an engine sound. The man with her had a
2020 Pro Bowl Rosters Announced
On Tuesday, December 17, the NFL announced the full 2020 Pro Bowl Rosters! Check to see if your favorite players will be here in Orlando next month for the Pro Bowl! Florida Citrus Sports and the NFL are inviting Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce members and their families to Camping World Stadium for the 2020 Pro Bowl with a special discounted ticket offer located in the member-to-member deals portal. Check out the 2020 Pro Bowl Rosters
Year in Review: Seminole State’s Best of 2019
SANFORD, Fla. (Dec. 18, 2019) – From the inauguration of a new president to being recognized as one of the top 150 community colleges in the nation, 2019 was a year of changes and achievement for Seminole State College of Florida. Here's a look at the College’s best stories of 2019 (in chronological order).Moon Week: Lunar EclipseThe Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium at Seminole State blasted into 2019 with Moon Week activities, which included guest speakers, a film screening, celestial observations
New Book Release: Silencing the Chatter Monsters-Move Beyond Your Fear
Rise and Shine CF founder, Sheryl L. Mays shares the importance of moving beyond your fear and into your possibilities. You probably woke up this morning wanting more. To do more, be more or live in a way that lights you up. But something got it your way, didn’t it? Maybe you stayed small, acted out of what you’re expected to do. Maybe you played it safe, instead of following your heart. We all have reasons why we’re not doing what we want, but if you give them a good hard look, most boil down
Christmas Holiday Closures, Special Recycling And Yard Waste Pick Up
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (December 20, 2019) – Seminole County business offices will be closed Wednesday, December 25, 2019 in observance of Christmas. Offices will resume normal hours on Thursday, December 26. Recycling and yard waste collection services for Unincorporated residents will not take place on Wednesday, December 25, 2019. Residents normally receiving recycling and yard waste collection on Wednesdays have a scheduled make-up collection on Saturday, December 28, 2019. This special collection
Servpro’s Joe Dalton Wins Silver In State Tennis Championship
Chamber member and Sanford resident Joe Dalton of Servpro recently competed in the Florida Senior Games. After winning Gold in the local tennis qualifying tournament Joe advanced to the State Championships in Coral Springs, FL where he won the Silver medal, losing in the finals to Mike DiNenna of Stuart, FL. “I used to play alot of tournament tennis when I was younger but I had rotator cuff surgeries on both shoulders over the past 3 years” said Joe. “It felt great to be back on the court again, pain
UCF Forum: Who, Me? A Philanthropist?
By Brenda S. ThompsonUCF Forum columnist I recently attended two fundraising events that were truly amazing in terms of the generosity of the attendees. These individuals were able to pay hundreds of dollars for tickets to attend the events; in addition, they gave thousands more during the events to support the mission of the sponsoring organizations. The donors’ actions certainly depicted a philanthropic spirit in the traditional sense of the word, and I am sure their donations changed lives and will
AdventHealth Donates $1 Million For Pulse Memorial, Scholarships And Diversity Education
ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 11, 2019 — AdventHealth will award the onePULSE Foundation $1 million to help build the National Pulse Memorial & Museum, and develop educational curriculum focused on diversity and inclusion. As part of the gift, AdventHealth University will annually provide a $15,000 scholarship to a recipient seeking a career in health care as selected by the foundation. The non-for-profit onePULSE Foundation was established to honor the 49 people killed, the survivors, first-responders and health
Seminole State Awards More Than 2,400 Degrees, Certificates
SANFORD, Fla. (December 12, 2019) – Seminole State College of Florida awarded more than 2,400 degrees and certificates during the Collegewide Fall 2019 Commencement on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida.Kathy Hebda, chancellor of the Florida College System’s 28 institutions, delivered the keynote address telling the graduates they are now proud alumni of the best higher education system in the country and to stay involved with the College.“Florida is
What the new year brings you depends on what you will bring to it!
Is wellness on your agenda?Oviedo— 12/11/19 — Today, Laurie Harrington, a Young Living associate announced a series of classes to help you get your new year off to a great start. These classes will educate you and give you the tools for you to bring health and wellness to your 2020.“People need a simple system when it comes to goal setting,” said Laurie, who has led many through her goal setting workshop called Oola, Life in Balance. WHAT IS OOLA?Oola (originating from the word "oo-la-la") is a lifestyle
Axiom Bank, N.A. Hires Amy Carlson As VP, Commercial Team Lead
ORLANDO, Fla. (Dec. 11, 2019) – Axiom Bank N.A., a Maitland-based, leading community bank, recently hired Amy Carlson as VP, Commercial Team Lead. In this role, Carlson will work with Axiom’s commercial clients throughout Central Florida to help them achieve their business goals. Carlson has over two decades of experience in financial management, customer relationship development, commercial lending and sales. “For our clients, Amy’s financial expertise and skill at developing adaptive business
Who has the #1 Identity Protection Plans? U.S. News and World Report says it is ID Shield.
U.S. News and World Report has recognized IDShield as a Best Identity Theft Protection Company of 2020. IDShield was celebrated for its unique use of in-house identity theft specialists. U.S. News & World Report states: “What differentiates IDShield from other identity theft protection services are its full-time Licensed Private Investigators, which members can contact using a mobile app. Investigators work on behalf of members to investigate possible fraud.” See
Zaza New Cuban Diner Opens in Lake Mary, Florida
Wednesday, December 11, 2019, Lake Mary, Florida – Zaza New Cuban Diner opens 5th Central Florida location at the Griffin Farms plaza in Lake Mary, Florida, off of Lake Mary Boulevard. This location features a coffee bar, separate take- out area, semi-open kitchen and outdoor patio and seating. “The Lake Mary community has already welcomed us with open arms and we are looking forward to bringing our familia to this growing area to serve our locally roasted coffee blends and Cuban comfort food”,
Improved Trash Collection Service for Unincorporated Seminole County
UNINCORPORATED SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (December 10, 2019)-- Seminole County Solid Waste and its collection contractor, Waste Pro USA have recently improved garbage collection efficiency by placing additional trucks into service, and by replacing older trucks with new Compressed Natural Gas trucks. Customers may experience a different time of day for their collection with these improvements; collection times will remain from 6:00am to 8:00pm, and no interruption of service will occur if garbage is placed
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens to Offer Exclusive Discounts to the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild
SANFORD, Fla., December 10, 2019—The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is offering exclusive discounts for the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild on select days throughout December. The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild has transformed the Zoo into a dazzling evening experience full of color, light, and sound. This event, in partnership with Tianyu (tē-än-yōō) Arts & Culture, Inc. celebrates the culture, art, and beauty of traditional Asian lantern festivals and features 35
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Orlando Health Heart Institute Acquires Vascular Surgery Practice
ORLANDO, Fla. (November 19, 2019) --- The Orlando Health Heart Institute recently announced the addition of G. Kendrix Adcock, MD, FACS, and Robert Winter, MD, FACS, from Florida Vascular Consultants to the institute’s Vascular Surgery Group. The acquisition of the practice will be effective January 2, 2020. Florida Vascular Consultants has been caring for patients in Maitland and the surrounding areas since 1986. “Both physicians specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular
Planet Smoothie Introduces Solar Beary Blast Smoothie
Official Smoothie of the Orlando Solar Bears ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Solar Bears and Planet Smoothie®, in a nod to Orlando’s ECHL hockey team, have announced the creation of Solar Beary Blast, a custom smoothie made with açaí, blueberries, strawberries, bananas that is now available throughout participating central Florida locations as the Official Smoothie of the Orlando Solar Bears. “We’re thrilled to have Planet Smoothie on board as the Official Smoothie of the Orlando Solar Bears and we look
Chamber Members Receive Special Discounts to the NFL Pro Bowl
Florida Citrus Sports and the NFL are inviting Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce members and their families to Camping World Stadium as the game's brightest stars take the field for the 2020 Pro Bowl! You, your friends, and your family can enjoy the NFL's best in-person with a special discounted ticket offer located in the member-to-member deals portal. In addition to the action on the field, be sure to stay for a dazzling postgame fireworks display. The discounted ticket offer starts at just
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction completes $40 million ECCO on Orange apartments in Orlando
For Immediate Release December 10, 2019 Contact: Ken Cristol, Cristol Marketing Company 407-774-2515(Authorized agency for Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction) ORLANDO, Fla. (December 10, 2019) – Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction completed the upscale ECCO on Orange apartments in the SoDo District of downtown Orlando, under a $40 million contract. Developed by an affiliate of LeCesse Development Corp., Altamonte Springs, the 300-unit
Liam Fitzpatrick’s Restaurant And Irish Pub Host The 2020 Lake Mary New Year’s Eve Block Party Featuring The Signature “Shamrock Drop” On Tuesday, December 31
Orlando, FL (December 4, 2019) – The time has come again for Lake Mary to turn into Times Square with an iconic symbol to ring in the New Year as Liam Fitzpatrick’s Restaurant and Irish Pub invite Central Florida to count down to 2020 at their epic, annual “Lake Mary New Year’s Eve Block Party” taking over Colonial Town Park on Tuesday, December 31, 2019 from 8pm to 2am. Joined by plaza neighbors Graffiti Junction and Dexter’s of Lake Mary, guests will enjoy live entertainment by The Six Million Dollar
Central Florida Regional Hospital Receives The Florida Award For Safely Reducing Primary C-Sections
SANFORD, Fla. (Dec. 9, 2019) — The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and the Florida Department of Health (DOH) announced Central Florida Regional Hospital as one of 19 Florida hospitals in 2018 that achieved the Healthy People 2020 (HP2020) Maternal and Child Health goal focused on reducing cesarean section deliveries for first-time mothers with low-risk pregnancies. Once a woman has a cesarean, she has a greater chance of having a C-section for subsequent births, increasing her risk of
2020 Economic Outlook Remains Positive
Employers Association Form (EAF) in conjunction with Employer Associations of America (EAA) has just released its 2020 National Business Trends Survey. This national survey shares information on what executives are doing to address the changing business climate, and executives surveyed this year indicate that they are feeling a little less optimistic. The majority of respondents (52 percent) felt the economy in the next 12 months would stay the same, with only 12 percent feeling the economy would improve,
SCPS To Release Snapshot Reports For Elementary, Middle, & High Schools
(SANFORD, FL) – Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) will release Snapshot Reports for all Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. The Snapshot Report reflects the Seminole County School Board and Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin’s desire to provide the community with a transparent report that highlights SCPS as a Premier National School District. The Snapshot Report allows each school to customize information on special program offerings, the arts, career tech education and clubs, activities and athletics.
Share the Love with Vulnerable Seniors
Exciting news! For the 12th year running, the Meals on Wheels network is participating in the 2019 Subaru Share the Love Event. Over the past eleven years, Subaru and its retailers have helped Meals on Wheels to deliver more than 2.2 million meals nationwide to seniors in need. Why does Subaru support Meals on Wheels? Too many seniors are struggling to stay independent and healthy. One in four seniors lives alone in isolation and one in seven seniors might not know from where their next meal is
On Becoming a Mom in Central Florida
By Katie PhilpUCF Forum columnist I spend a lot of my spare time at a local youth center working with children and young adults. Earlier this year, several students from the same family lost their mother unexpectedly. “Jane,” the mother, and I had been getting to know each other better as we frequently discussed ways to support her children, and I like to think our relationship would have grown if given the chance. We were the same age, but our similarities mostly ended there. The truth is that, on many
Amidst Period of Record Expansion for Walt Disney World Resort, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Creates More Than 7,000 Jobs for Local Community
The Force is strong with the Central Florida community. As a cast member, I’ve been waiting with anticipation and excitement for this amazing land to open since the day we announced. We are now just three short weeks away from the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World Resort! This groundbreaking expansion represents the largest single-themed land created in a Disney park, transporting guests to the planet of Batuu and pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity. Like any project
East Branch Pop-up Library Locations
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (December 4, 2019)-- Seminole County East Branch Library is closed for renovations through early 2020; in the interim, Pop-Up Library locations will be offered throughout the Oviedo area, as listed below: DATE: Tuesday, December 10, 2019 TIME: 12:00 – 4:00pm LOCATION: YMCA Oviedo ADDRESS: 7900 Red Bug Lake Rd., Oviedo DATE: Saturday, December 14, 2019 TIME: 12:00 – 4:00pm LOCATION: Oviedo Mall Community Room ADDRESS: 1700 Oviedo Mall Blvd., Oviedo DATE: Wednesday, December 18,
Volusia Incubator Recognizes Plan Life Care, Details Flowers Software
Daytona Beach, Fla. (December 4, 2019) – The impact of the Volusia County Business Incubator powered by UCF Business Incubation Program was on full display at the organization’s Third Annual Client Showcase as two successful companies were named as the businesses of the year. Combined, the two companies have created more than 100 jobs in Volusia County and now have nearly $3 million in annual revenue. Both companies started at the Incubator as just an idea. The Client Company of the Year, Plan Life
Oviedo Medical Center Receives The Florida Award For Safely Reducing Primary C-Sections
OVIEDO, Fla. (Dec. 2, 2019) — The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and the Florida Department of Health (DOH) announced Oviedo Medical Center as one of 19 Florida hospitals in 2018 that achieved the Healthy People 2020 (HP2020) Maternal and Child Health goal focused on reducing cesarean section deliveries for first-time mothers with low-risk pregnancies. Once a woman has a cesarean, she has a greater chance of having a C-section for subsequent births, increasing her risk of major birth
Seminole County Sheriff’s Office to become Purple Heart Agency
Seminole Co. Fla., (Dec. 02, 2019) – Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) is proud to announce that our organization will become designated as a Purple Heart Agency in recognition for our dedication to veterans in our agency and the Seminole County community.Over the past few years, the SCSO has taken on initiatives to recognize those who currently serve, have been discharged, retired, and the family members of those who have supported their loved ones through their military careers. This includes
How to Be Better Prepared for Successful Aging
Brush and floss your teeth. Save and invest your money wisely. Eat nutritiously. Stay active. Surround yourself with caring, positive people. The list goes on for sound advice on how to prepare for “successful aging,” a term credited to John Wallis Rowe, M.D., and psychology and public health professor Robert L. Kahn, Ph.D. In their “Successful Aging” book, Rowe and Kahn noted that flourishing as you age includes: (1) safeguarding your physical health and avoiding illness, disease and disability; (2)
End of 2019 Hurricane Season
SANFORD, FLA – Nov 27. 2019 – The 2019 hurricane season will end this weekend. Central Florida was spared from a direct hit of a catastrophic hurricane, which caused millions of dollars of damage and loss of many lives in the Bahamas. While emergency managers can take a sigh of relief as the season ends, there is still a lot of recovery work to be done from previous events and mitigation projects to build the resiliency of our community. Each year at the end of hurricane season, the Office of
Three Big Advantages of Local Banks
When it’s time to choose a bank, you have plenty of options. From the industry giants you see on TV commercials to the community bank down the street, they all have a different set of perks for the consumer. So, which do you choose? Community banks are locally owned and operated across just a few cities and neighborhoods – which means they have a unique ability to understand the needs of local families and can tailor their services accordingly. That adds up to some big benefits for your customer
Satya Lory Joins HNTB’s Lake Mary Office as Florida Client Service Leader
LAKE MARY, Fla. (Nov. 19, 2019) – Satya Lory, PE, PMP, joined HNTB Corporation as Florida client service leader and vice president. She is based in the firm’s Lake Mary office and leads HNTB’s delivery of some of the most complex transportation infrastructure projects throughout the state.Lory has nearly 30 years of experience in the transportation industry, including design and program and project management. She has significant expertise working with alternative delivery methods such as design-build and
UCF Takes 2nd Nationally in Department of Energy’s CyberForce Competition
Competing against more than 100 of the top collegiate cybersecurity teams in the nation, UCF took 2nd place nationally in Saturday’s fifth annual CyberForce Competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy. UCF’s Collegiate Cybersecurity Competition team, known as Hack@UCF, also took 1st place in its daylong DOE regional matchups at the Argonne National Laboratory near Chicago while the simultaneous national event was held at nine other sites around the country involving 105 teams. The University of
My Word: Universal's Epic Universe
We recently announced Universal’s Epic Universe, our company’s newest theme park destination and single-biggest-ever investment in Florida. We thought it was great news for our company, our team members and our community. We are creating 14,000 new jobs. The entry-level wage will be at least $15 an hour, or more than $30,000 a year for full-time team members. That’s just entry level. We will also be hiring for thousands of professional, technical, culinary and other specialized positions.Our current
The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Now Open
SANFORD, Fla., November 21, 2019—The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is now open. This event, in partnership with Tianyu (tē-än-yōō) Arts & Culture, Inc. celebrates the culture, art, and beauty of traditional Asian lantern festivals. The Zoo has been transformed into a dazzling evening experience full of color, light, and sound. Even before entering the gate, guests will be greeted by a water-spitting dinosaur and walk through a vibrant path of
SCPS Announces 2021 Teacher Of The Year Finalists & Grade-level Winners
(SANFORD, Fla.) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is pleased to announce its 2021 Teacher of the Year Finalists & Grade-Level Winners:Caitlyn Baumann, 5th Grade Teacher, Casselberry Elementary Mrs. Baumann has been teaching for nine years, with three of those years being at Casselberry Elementary. She currently teaches 5th Grade Math & Science and has been integral in helping Casselberry Elementary move from a “C” to an “A” school grade in just two years. She was recently named SCPS Wellness
The Hidden Wealth Solution Receives 5-Star Google Ratings
Chuck Oliver and his team of financial advisors at The Hidden Wealth Solution announce their newest 5- star Google Review ratings. In their newest reviews, one client stated how Oliver and his team are responsive, respectful and creative while another client said the firm is legitimate, professional and comprehensive. Another client indicated how shifting financial firms was a daunting process for him however the entire team at The Hidden Wealth Solution took all the necessary time to explain to he and
The first-ever Family Volunteer Day at Disney Springs
Join us for a first-of-its-kind event at Disney Springs as we come together to celebrate Family Volunteer Day on Saturday, Nov. 23! Inspired by our nationwide search to find the first-ever Disney and Points of Light Volunteer Family of the Year, families are invited to #VolunteerTogether at Disney Springs. • Visit Volunteer Village in the Disney Springs Marketplace from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. to participate in a family volunteer activity with Clean the World (www.cleantheworld.org) and others - and learn more
Addition Financial Chief Development Officer Linh Dang Will Receive i4 Business Leader of the Year Award
Lake Mary, Fla. (November 18, 2019) – This December, i4 Business will recognize Linh Dang, Addition Financial’s Chief Development Officer, with the Business Leader of the Year Award in the Economic Development category. Linh was nominated for the award because of her community involvement and her contributions to the credit union. Linh joined the Addition Financial team in 2003, leading a variety of departments during that time. She currently oversees the Community Engagement & Partnerships, Leadership &
Rise and Shine CF, Hosts The Game Changer Series-Day of Discovery
Sheryl L. Mays, Founder and Chief Learning Officer of Rise and Shine CF, is hosting a unique experience called the Game Changer Series-Day of Discovery. This event is for individuals looking to improve their lives for the upcoming year. Sheryl Mays states, “The greatest gift you can offer yourself, your family and your business is to be the best version of you. The Game Changer Series (4 sessions) focuses on self-discovery and the writing of your narrative. The term “Game Changer” means a new element that
Oviedo Medical Center Nationally Recognized With An ‘A’ For The Fall 2019 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade
OVIEDO, Fla. (Nov. 12, 2019) — Oviedo Medical Center was awarded an ‘A’ in fall 2019 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing the hospital’s achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing safer healthcare. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization driven by employers and other purchasers of healthcare committed to improving healthcare quality and safety for consumers and purchasers. The Safety Grade assigns an ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’, ‘D’ or ‘F’ grade
Central Florida Regional Hospital Receives Level II Trauma Center Verification
Hospital participates in voluntary review program to ensure delivery of high-quality trauma care SANFORD, Fla. (Nov. 13, 2019) — The American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Trauma (COT) has verified Central Florida Regional Hospital as a Level II Trauma Center. Designated as a Level II trauma center by the state of Florida in 2015, Central Florida Regional Hospital recently underwent a voluntary review by the COT’s Verification Review Committee (VRC) that confirmed the hospital’s
Seminole State President Emerita Dr. E. Ann Mcgee Wins James L. Wattenbarger Award
SANFORD, Fla. (Nov. 13, 2019) - The Association of Florida Colleges and the Florida College System Council of Presidents are excited to announce that this year’s James L. Wattenbarger Award winner is Dr. E. Ann McGee, President Emerita, from Seminole State College of Florida. Dr. McGee is the 20th recipient of the honor. To be considered for the award you must meet the following criteria: Demonstration of an exceptional commitment to one of Florida’s colleges and/or the Florida College SystemBe a
Networking, Socializing and Shopping
Enjoy of networking, socializing, shopping and a gourmet luncheon with the Jewish Pavilion on Monday, December 9th at 11 am at the Hilton in Altamonte Springs. The covert is $28. Meet 100- 150 donors to this charity who work to enhance the lives of our elders, of all faiths, in long term care. The Friends of the Jewish Pavilion will honor two special volunteers at this event- Myrna Ossin and Randi Cunningham. RSVP to 407-678-9363 or visit https://www.jewishpavilion.org/jp-connections-2019
UCF Forum: From My First-hand Experience, Unhealthy Sugar Habit is Hard to Break
By Syretta Spears UCF Forum columnist Hidden sugar has kept me on and off the health and fitness wagon for most of my adult life. I set the stage for success—balanced meals, gym memberships, etc.—only to end up miserably falling from the back of the wagon, but for a long time never fully understanding why. Sugar—and more sneakily hidden sugar—was a key cause of my past downfalls. Discovering this little devil in the details and how it affects my body has helped me break the desire for sugar and change
Chuck Oliver, A Premier Lake Mary, Florida Financial Advisor, Launches Newest Retirement Tax Savings Assessment
Chuck Oliver and his team of financial advisors at The Hidden Wealth Solution recently launched their complimentary tax savings optimization analysis. Oliver stated “we see the typical retiree over-paying $12,000 to $36,000 or more in unnecessary taxes. With the year-end quickly approaching retirees and those looking ahead to retirement don’t have too much time left before December 31st to make adjustments that can save them taxes when filing their 2019 tax return. There is still time to put strategies
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Offers Discounted Admission on the Kids' Course at Seminole Aerial Adventures
SANFORD, Fla., November 12, 2019—The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is offering a discounted admission of $11 for the Kids' Course at Seminole Aerial Adventures through Wednesday, December 11, 2019. Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only valid for admission to the Kids’ Course at Seminole Aerial Adventures. Tickets must be purchased in-person at the Zoo's Admission window. This offer is valid Tuesday, November 12, 2019 through Wednesday, December 11, 2019. This offer cannot be combined
Seminole County Board of County Commissioners Elects New Chairman
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (November 12, 2019)- At today’s regularly scheduled Seminole County Board of County Commissioners meeting, District 2 Commissioner Jay Zembower was unanimously elected by his peers to serve as the Chairman of the Board. District 4 Commissioner Lee Constantine was named Vice-Chairman. The Chairman presides over all meetings, signs all legal documents, and appoints Commissioners to various committees. The Chairman is the official representative of the Board and retains a vote on all
Central Florida Scouts Go Door-to-door in “2019 Scouting For Food”
ORLANDO, Fla. (Nov. 11, 2019) – Every November, local Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venturers set out to fight hunger during their annual “Scouting for Food” campaign. This year, the Central Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America collected 40,157 pounds of food for a local network of feeding partners, including Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. On Nov. 2, the Scouts visited nearly 500,000 homes and placed door hangers with information about the annual food drive. A week later, the Scouts
Central Florida Regional Hospital Nationally Recognized With An ‘a’ For The Fall 2019 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade
SANFORD, Fla. (Nov. 11, 2019) — Central Florida Regional Hospital was awarded its third consecutive ‘A’ in fall 2019 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing the hospital’s achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing safer healthcare. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization driven by employers and other purchasers of healthcare committed to improving healthcare quality and safety for consumers and purchasers. The Safety Grade assigns an
Seminole State College Honors U.S. Military At Veterans Day Celebration
Seminole State College of Florida honored members of the armed forces Monday, Nov. 11, during the annual Veterans Day Ceremony.The ceremony, hosted by Seminole State’s Veterans Affairs Office and the Office of Student Life, included the presentation of colors by the Winter Springs High School Army Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) and the singing of the National Anthem and the Armed Forces salute by SeminoleSound.Seminole County Supervisor of Elections and U.S. Army Veteran Chris Anderson was
UCF Forum: Access to Awe, Wonderment and Beauty are Basic Necessities
By Chung ParkUCF Forum columnistWhen I interviewed at UCF in 2015, I was completely astounded by the scale of everything I encountered—the size of the student body, the campus, the sprawling Orlando metroplex.What I came to understand is that things aren’t big just for the sake of being big. There are reasons for it and I see several of them even from my narrow vantage point, but the one that stands out to me the most was that of access.In a world where poorer students don’t even bother applying to
Central Florida Regional Hospital Hosts Safety And Wellness Event
On Saturday, Nov. 23, Central Florida Regional Hospital and several community partners will host Health & Wellness Walk-A-Mile at Seminole Towne Center. Attendees are invited to the mall prior to regular business hours for safety and wellness demonstrations and information, including: Custom ‘CarFit’ vehicle inspections‘Stop the Bleed’ and hands-only CPR trainingFall prevention, nutrition and physical therapy tipsDiabetes educationEarly heart attack care The event is free and open to the
Aspen Institute Names Seminole State Among Top 150 U.S. Community Colleges
The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program has named Seminole State College of Florida as one of 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America's community colleges. Based on strong and improving student outcomes—including in learning, completion rates, employment rates and earnings, and equity—15 percent of community colleges nationwide have been invited to
A&G Marketing Group by Proforma Hosts Bright Ideas Showcase
A&G MARKETING GROUP HOSTS BRIGHT IDEAS SHOWCASE LAKE MARY, FL (October 16, 2019) – A&G Marketing Group Powered by Proforma, a Lake Mary-based full-service marketing solutions provider, recently hosted the Bright Ideas 2019 Showcase at Noah’s Event Venue in Lake Mary, Florida. With the holiday season around the corner, A&G Marketing Group wanted to create a high-quality event to showcase their newest products and marketing services to community organizations, businesses and professionals. Guests also
2020 Holiday Survey Results Released
Do you wonder what holidays most employers observe? Are you paying your employees competitively when they have to work on a holiday? EAF has published its annual 2020 Holiday Survey results which can be viewed at https://eafinc.org/holiday-survey-2/. This trend survey will provide you with the information you need to ensure your holiday policy is competitive in today's tight labor market.Contributed by the Employers Association Forum, Inc. (EAF). EAF is a non-profit corporate membership-based association
4 Ways Expecting Mothers Can Set Themselves Up for Breastfeeding Success
Breastfeeding is natural so it should always be easy, right? Not necessarily – just ask any new mom. According to the CDC, high breastfeeding initiation rates show that most mothers in the United States want to breastfeed and start out doing so. However, those rates begin to drop off as early as two days after birth. Like many aspects of parenting, breastfeeding has a learning curve, and there may be some unexpected challenges along the way. Here are a few tips moms-to-be can use to prepare for
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AdventHealth Makes Major Donation To Kids House To Aid Abused, Neglected Children
The $840,000 donation will allow Kids House to expand its medical trauma program.SANFORD, Fla., Nov. 4, 2019 — Kids House Wayne Densch Children’s Advocacy Center, Seminole County’s center for child abuse investigation and ongoing care, was recently awarded $840,000 in grants and in-kind contributions by AdventHealth as part of a partnership that has spanned 14 years.Of the contribution approved by AdventHealth, $800,000 will fund two full-time nurse practitioners who will serve at the Kids House Medical
First Horizon National Corporation and IBERIABANK Corporation to Combine in Merger of Equals to Create a Leading Regional Financial Services Company
MEMPHIS, Tenn. & LAFAYETTE, La., Nov. 4, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- First Horizon National Corp. ("First Horizon") (NYSE: FHN) and IBERIABANK Corporation ("IBERIABANK") (NASDAQ: IBKC) today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which the companies will combine in an all-stock merger of equals. Under the terms of the agreement, which was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies, the combined holding company and bank will operate under the First Horizon name
Embrace Families Seeks Food, Gift Donations For Families In Need
ORLANDO, Fla. (Nov. 4, 2019) - With as many as 5,200 children receiving child welfare services every month in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties, Embrace Families is seeking assistance to deliver a memorable holiday season to the families it serves. The nonprofit is asking the community to donate food and gift items. As part of this initiative, Embrace Families aims to provide 200 Thanksgiving dinners. Most of these will go to participants in the Pathways to Home program, which for the last decade, has
AdventHealth opens freestanding ER in Oviedo
The ER will be staffed by board-certified emergency physicians and emergency nurses. OVIEDO, Fla., Oct. 17, 2019 — AdventHealth opened a freestanding ER in Oviedo today, providing Seminole County residents greater access to emergency medicine and the organization’s growing health network. The approximately 19,000-square-foot facility will have 24 patient rooms (including two pediatric-friendly rooms to make ER visits less stressful for young patients); respiratory therapy; diagnostic
Florida Blue and Lyft Team Up to Offer Rides to Doctor’s Appointments
Florida Blue providing Lyft ridesharing services to its ACA members – JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Nov. 1, 2019 – Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, announced today that it is working with Lyft, a transportation network, to offer Florida Blue members with Affordable Care Act (ACA) individual plans Lyft rides to their doctor’s visits. Having access to reliable transportation for medical appointments is a significant issue for health care consumers across the nation. In fact, millions of
Center For Fine And Performing Arts Presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
Seminole State College of Florida’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts will present William Shakespeare’s famous comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” under the stars on the lawn of the Sanford/Lake Mary Campus from Nov. 1 - 10.The play follows four young lovers, a band of tradesmen who wish to perform a play for the king’s wedding and mischievous fairies who cast spells on each other and on the humans. The result is a play filled with hilarious misunderstandings and wit.Nicole Salamon, professor of theatre
Seminole County Prepares for 'Zombie' Virus
SANFORD, FLA. Oct. 31, 2019 -- In preparation for a pandemic, Seminole County Emergency Management is conducting their annual Community Readiness Initiative / Pandemic Exercise today. The exercise helps to improve emergency response to citizens before, during and after a pandemic. The drill’s objective is to improve and enhance preparedness and response efforts by enabling Seminole County, municipal, health/medical, hospitals, first response, and private sector agencies which would respond to a variety
Panera Bread Honors Local American Heroes with a Free You Pick Two® on Veterans Day
What: Free You Pick Two® for all veterans and active military members. When: Monday, November 11, 2019 Where: Valid at participating Panera Bread bakery-cafes owned and operated by Covelli Family Limited Partnership. For a list of participating cafes, visit https://www.paneraflorida.com. The Details: Panera Bread is thanking local American heroes with a free You Pick Two® on Veterans Day. Veterans or active military members must show their valid military ID to the cashier at the register to redeem. This
IBERIABANK Names SVP, Director of Music and Entertainment, a division of IBERIABANK Sports & Entertainment Banking
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE- IBERIABANK (www.iberiabank.com), the 132-year-old subsidiary of IBERIABANK Corporation, is pleased to announce that Peggy Dold has been named Senior Vice President and Director of Music and Entertainment in Nashville Tennessee, a division of IBERIABANK’s Sports & Entertainment Banking. Dold joins IBERIABANK with over 20 years of experience in the music and entertainment industry. Her career has aligned her with work in both the Anglo and Hispanic music
SCPS Names 2021 Teacher Of The Year Semi-finalists
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce the 2021 Teacher of the Year (TOY) Semi-Finalists: Elementary Bentley Elementary Sahmiah Eacret Art Teacher Casselberry Elementary Caitlyn Baumann 5th Grade Teacher Hamilton Elementary Kayla Heflin 3rd Grade Teacher Lawton Elementary Lauren Hamilton Kindergarten Teacher Stenstrom Elementary
Seminole State Men’s Cross Country Team Wins Regionals In Second Year
On Friday, Oct. 25, the Seminole State College of Florida men’s cross country team took home first place at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 8 championships. The Florida College System Activities Association held the championships at Apalachee Regional Park in Tallahassee where the Raiders swept the podium for the men’s competition. The top three finishers all came in with times under 30 minutes and set Seminole State up to outscore Lake-Sumter State College by 18 points for
Veterans Day Weekend
The VFW Post 10147 of Apopka/Altamonte Springs will be kicking off the Veterans Day Weekend activities on Saturday November 9th at 11:30 AM at Long and Scott Farms located at 26216 County Road 448A in Mount Dora, this is located at the end of Jones Ave. and 448A, we will be doing the flag raising and a short speech. Then on Saturday night we will be hosting a Dinner Show featuring the Endless Summer band which is the number 1 tribute band to the Beach Boys. Dinner will consist of Wings; Potato Salad, Baked
Ken Countess Becomes A Keap Certified Partner
ORLANDO, FL — October 30, 2019 – Ken Countess, Managing Director of The Countess Group, has become a Keap Certified Partner. Keap was formerly known as Infusionsoft. “Keap is an important addition to our service portfolio,” Countess said. “It’s unique in that it frees small businesses from repetitive tasks and saves them time - with online appointment scheduling, auto-reminders, and personalized follow-up communications that give small businesses back their time.” “No more sticky notes
Holiday Candlelight Service @ Baldwin Fairchild Oaklawn Chapel and Cemetery
Thursday, Dec 5th, 2019 – 7 pm Our family invites yours to join us for an evening of remembering the loved ones we've lost over the years. Our gathering will begin at 7 pm and is open to any family that has experienced loss, no matter where they may be at rest. We will hear brief words of comfort, have a short reading, and some music. Each family member will receive a candle which we will light together. There will be light refreshments served afterward, as well as an ornament station where
Pathways To Home Celebrates Decade Of Embracing Families In Need
Nonprofit Expanded from Grassroots Origin, Helping More Than 1,600 Homeless Children ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 30, 2019) – Pathways to Home, a Central Florida-based program that helps homeless families with children achieve shelter, security and self-sufficiency, marks its tenth anniversary this fall. Since its inception in 2009, Pathways to Home has served 614 families, including 1,631 children. The program began as a collaborative community effort in the Seminole County Children’s Cabinet by Embrace
Adventhealth, Seminole County To Open First-of-its-kind Addictions Recovery Center To Fight Opioids
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla., Oct. 24, 2019 — AdventHealth, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, Seminole County EMS/Fire Rescue and the Board of County Commissioners are launching a unique partnership to combat the opioid epidemic. A key element of the partnership is a new addictions recovery center in Sanford that will provide clinically supported residential substance abuse treatment when it opens in early 2020. This is the first time in Florida that a health care system and law enforcement are coming
UCF Forum: The Mountains Are Not IN the Way—They ARE the Way
By Peter TelepUCF Forum columnist “Come with me to spin class,” my wife said. I glanced up from my beer. “Are you crazy?” To be honest, I wasn’t sure what she was talking about. Spin class? I envisioned myself standing on a Frisbee-like disc and twisting back and forth to some silly dance music while muscleheads across the gym pointed and laughed at me. I had just turned 40 and was so stubborn and dense that I didn’t realize a spin class involved bicycles. The thought of riding a bike had me flashing
Goodwill Industries Of Central Florida Appoints Edward Durkee As President and CEO
ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 29, 2019) – Goodwill Industries of Central Florida concluded its nationwide search for a new president and CEO. Long-time Goodwill Industries executive Edward J. Durkee will replace Laurence Hames effective Jan. 1, 2020. Hames served as interim CEO since April of this year. Durkee brings decades of experience in executive and director-level positions for other Goodwill organizations across the U.S. Most recently, he served as president and CEO of Goodwill Central Coast in Santa Cruz,
$45,000 Raised by Embrace Families “Fore Our Kids”
Embrace Families wants to thank everyone who helped make its second “Fore Our Kids” golf tournament a great success by raising more than $45,000. Golfers united on Friday, Oct. 25 at Timacuan Golf and Country Club in Lake Mary to support the region’s lead nonprofit agency overseeing foster care, adoption and child welfare services in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go towards critical services and assistance programs designed to ensure safety, provide permanence and
CPA Firm Moves to Lake Mary
AGA CPA’s & Advisors LLC proudly announce opening of their accounting firm in the Great Community of Downtown Lake Mary (just across the street from Lake Mary’s City Hall). The owner Joaquin Torres, CPA, is a seasoned Certified Public Accountant with Licenses in Florida and Puerto Rico with over 25 years of experience. The client base includes small to big size businesses and individuals. Some of the services that AGA CPA’s & Advisors provide are: Bookkeeping / Payroll Services for Businesses Business
Sports Hall of Fame Nominations Now Accepted
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (October 25, 2019)-- The Seminole County Sports Hall of Fame Committee is now accepting nominations for the Spring 2020 recognition class. Nominees must have attended school or resided in Seminole County to be eligible for consideration by the Committee. Former Seminole County high school athletes and coaches, professional athletes, coaches and sports personalities, local college athletes and coaches, and sports-related volunteers are among the types of inductees the committee
Sip and Shop Event for Hearts, Hands and Hope Will Help Feed Local Homeless Children
Come enjoy a festive evening dedicated to helping homeless and disadvantaged children in our community. The Sip and Shop for Hearts, Hands and Hope is being held on Tuesday November 19th, from 6-9pm at the Heathrow Country Club. The event is free to attend and will feature local vendors with unique items for purchase. “These hard working, small business owners will have the opportunity to sell their merchandise to our guests, just in time for the holiday season. At the same time, they will be providing
FAIRWINDS Credit Union Taps Elisha González to Lead FAIRWINDS Foundation
ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 24, 2019) – Elisha González, vice president of community relations and government affairs at FAIRWINDS Credit Union, has been named executive director of the FAIRWINDS Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping individuals achieve a path toward financial responsibility, security and freedom, and inspiring them to transform the lives of others by living generously. As executive director of the foundation, González will lead the Foundation’s efforts to bolster
United Medical and Social Services Opens Free Medical Clinic in Goldsboro
Sanford, Fla. - This week, UNITED MEDICAL AND SOCIAL SERVICES (UMSS) opened a free medical clinic near the Goldsboro district in Sanford and Lake Mary area in Florida. The clinic serves anyone from Central Florida who is medically uninsured and falls into low-income criteria set by Florida Department of Health. This location is a huge advantage for both our patients and many professional healthcare volunteers, as we are close to many of the other hospitals and clinics that assist us. Currently we
The Hidden Wealth Solution’s Chuck Oliver Offers Tips for Reducing Heavy Tax Burdens
Lake Mary, Florida Veteran Financial Planner Hosts Radio Show That Teaches Baby Boomers About Strategic Retirement Tax Solutions to pay the legal least amount of tax to live more and leave more! Chuck Oliver, owner of Lake Mary, Florida’s premier financial planning firm, The Hidden Wealth Solution, recently taught Baby Boomers how to save on retirement tax for the 2019 tax year. Oliver discussed key points to saving on tax in his recent weekend radio show that aired in 5 different markets across the
UCF Forum: Texting Drivers, Yes You! — Put Down Your Phones and Pay Attention
By Roy LenfestUCF Forum columnist It’s 4:15 p.m. and I am sitting in the back of a very long line at the traffic light at University Boulevard and Alafaya Trail in front of UCF. The light has just turned green and the people in the front of the line don’t seem to be moving. The horn honking finally starts, and two cars whose drivers were texting someone more important than all of us behind them, finally go on the stale yellow light, actually running the red light and leaving the rest of us to sit. I can’t
Celebrating Thanksgiving Safely With Senior Loved Ones
The family is coming for Thanksgiving and mouths are already watering just thinking about Grandma’s pumpkin pie. But did you know that during the Thanksgiving holiday, an increased number of older adults go to the emergency room? Some ER physicians see up to a 20% rise in elderly patients during the holidays. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted that during 2012-2013, an annual average of 5.2 million ER visits among adults age 65 and older were due to injury and 15.5 million visits were
Special Olympics Florida Seminole County Holds 3rd Annual Golf Tournament
Calling all golfers and sponsors! Please join us at our 3rd Golf Classic Tournament to benefit Special Olympics Florida Seminole County. The charity tournament is Sunday 11/3 at Mayfair Country Club. Registration begins at 7:30AM, shot gun tee-off at 8:30AM. The entry fee ($85 Individual, $300 Foursome) includes a light breakfast, 18 holes of golf, lunch, a silent auction, 50/50, fun on the course and a complimentary iron fitting for each player. Greg Warmoth is once again our Emcee for the event and
Seminole County Fire Department Brings Lifesaving Technology to Residents Via PulsePoint, a 9-1-1 Integrated Mobile App
Sanford, FL (October, 22, 2019)— Today, the Seminole County Fire Department announced the adoption of PulsePoint for all Seminole County residents to further the Board of County Commissioner’s commitment to creating a healthy and civically engaged community. The event was held at the Seminole County BCC Meeting and was highlighted by messages from Seminole County Fire Chief Mark Oakes, Seminole County Medical Director Dr. Todd Husty and Seminole County Cardiac Arrest Survivor Mr. Chris Connor. The
Summiting Debt Mountain
Saving money is the path to financial security: It gives you the ability to recover from large expenses, to invest in a better quality of life and to sleep peacefully at night. You can pay for what you need, when you need it, without sacrificing your comfort and happiness. Unfortunately, it isn’t easy to make that ideal a reality. According to a CNN report, 40% of Americans would have trouble meeting an unexpected $400 out-of-pocket expense. The problem? Debt. Even if you have money in your bank
Heathrow ER Participates As A Drop-off Location For National Prescription Drug Take-back Day
On Saturday, Oct. 26, Heathrow ER will partner with the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office to collect unwanted prescription drugs for National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. The national initiative by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) aims to provide a safe, convenient and anonymous way to drop off unused prescription drugs. There will be a drive-through option for participants. The event is open to the public. WHEN: Sat., Oct.
Screening Mammograms Can Save Your Life
It's easy to get swept up in life, ignoring self-care and wellness exam appointments. But health should always be a priority. Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in women in the U.S. and this means your annual mammogram should be priority #1. After all, it could save your life. Annual mammograms are still the top recommended screening for women, allowing the earliest possible detection before you experience symptoms. Catching it early means: Therapies like breast conservation
New Lawn Water Restrictions in Seminole County
Daylight Saving Time Ends: New Lawn Water Restrictions Start November 3, 2019. The following lawn watering rules will be in effect for Seminole County: *No watering is allowed between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on any day of the week. *Residents with Odd street addresses water on Saturday. *Residents with Even street addresses water on Sunday. *Reclaimed water customers may irrigate twice a week year round. *Non-Residential customers irrigate on Tuesday. THESE RESTRICTIONS ARE MANDATORY IN SEMINOLE COUNTY