Wharton-Smith Hires Bert Fonseca as Central Florida Commercial Project Executive
August 6, 2020-Sanford, FL -Wharton-Smith Construction Group announced today the hire of Bert Fonseca as a Project Executive for their Central Florida Commercial Operation at their Corporate Headquarters in Sanford, FL. Mr. Fonseca brings with him more than 28 years of construction experience and a strong reputation for successfully delivering multi-million-dollar higher education, K-12 education, commercial, airport, healthcare and entertainment projects. Prior to joining Wharton-Smith, Fonseca worked
On The + Side: Hiking Trails, Immune Boosters and Retirement
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about National Black Business Month, underrated hiking trails in Central Florida, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
A Message From Dr. André Hebra: NCH and Local Children’s Hospitals Join on Back to School Guidance
As our children and families prepare for the upcoming school year amid the current state of COVID-19, infectious disease experts from all three local children’s hospitals in Central Florida joined forces to assemble consistent information and resources needed to support our pediatric providers. Our Nemours infectious disease professionals, Dr. Kenneth Alexander and Dr. Adriana Cadilla collaborated with their peers from AdventHealth for Children and Orlando Health-Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital to
iHeartMedia/Orlando Highlights Financial Services Advertisers On 'Financial Fix' Website
iHEARTMEDIA/ORLANDO has unveiled a financial resource website, "Financial Fix," featuring financial business advertisers. The site is being promoted on the cluster's stations, websites, and social media. “‘Financial Fix’ will be an important resource for our community,” said iHEART's CHIANNA RAY. “Many people do not know where to start when it comes to unexpected financial situations such as refinancing, retirement funds withdrawal, grants qualifications and more. This hub will be a great place for
Seeking Laptop Donations for SCPS Students in Need
Do you have old laptops that you don't use any more at home or your business? The Foundation for SCPS is seeking laptop donations that can be loaned to low-income households who've chosen Seminole Connect or Seminole County Virtual School. Laptops can be dropped off at the Educational Support Center Monday through Friday. http://foundationscps.org/foundation-news/seeking-laptop-donations-for-scps-students-in-need/ Participate in a School Supply Drive The Summer School Supply Drive for
Back to School or Not, It’s Time to Budget
August is here, and Florida schools are preparing to welcome students back into classrooms while some families are preparing to continue learning from home. But even as stores market back-to-school deals – on items from whiteboard markers to webcams – things certainly are not back to normal. Nearly 9 in 10 Americans experienced financial stress this past spring, according to a survey from the National Endowment for Financial Education – and while there are some promising signs for the economy, recovery
Bitman O’Brien & Morat Makes Top 100 Best Companies List
The annual Best Companies To Work For In Florida list is featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine. One hundred companies are ranked in small, medium and large employer categories.To participate, companies or government entities employ at least 15 workers in Florida and have been in operation at least one year. Companies underwent an evaluation of their workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The process also included a survey to measure employee satisfaction. The
New Home for Premium Content
Orlando, FL – August 6, 2020 – Sometimes you want to attend an online class but the timing doesn’t fit your schedule. That’s why The Countess Group has created a way to watch its premium content whenever you want on an exclusive website. And for a limited time, you can experience a sample of one of the company’s most popular classes, Creating Facebook Ads, for just $1. “I know how tough it can be to learn on someone else’s schedule,” said Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group.
New Offerings At Seminole State Support Florida’s Workforce Priorities
SANFORD, Fla. (Aug. 5, 2020) - Focusing on in-demand and essential areas, Seminole State College of Florida sets students up for success through new offerings this fall to reflect the changing priorities and goals of Floridians, including upskilling and reskilling for jobs of the future. Fall Term classes start Monday, Aug. 24, with 12-Week Session starting Sept. 14. Seminole State is offering online or remote classes for Fall with limited face-to-face classes for labs, public safety and other hands-on
ACE Human Resources Announces Recruitment of Home Inspectors
[Winter Springs, FL]: ACE Human Resources published two job postings this week, recruiting multiple Florida-licensed home inspectors for their client. The details of the positions are located on the Seminole County Chamber website under Job Postings. ACE Human Resources provides recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding services for small businesses under 50 employees. The services are offered to assist managers with the daunting and cumbersome tasks involved with the hiring process. Ranging
Seminole State Receives Duke Energy Grant For Workforce Development
Seminole State College of Florida has received a $10,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to empower communities in Central Florida by a workforce jumpstart initiative. The initiative will assist adult education students who will be concurrently enrolled in select non-credit workforce certificate programs. The School of Academic Foundations and workforce development departments have partnered to address the financial, academic and career readiness gaps experienced by students working to obtain their
UCF Forum: A Perspective on Our Most Valuable Natural Resource
By Brenda S. ThompsonUCF Forum columnist What are America's most valuable natural resources and where can they be found? These questions are as important today as they have ever been. Natural resources have essential life-sustaining and economic value. Most reference sources identify examples of them as minerals, water, forests, fertile land, coal and even diamonds, gold and silver. Natural resources benefit all of us and, without a doubt, we know how precious they are. That is why care must be taken to
On The + Side: Sharks and Summer Serenades
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about next week’s Shark Week lineup, recipes for National Peach Month, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Bitman’s Point of View: Online Notarizations A New And Efficient Way To Close Real Estate Deals
This year, the State of Florida approved a law allowing Florida notaries to perform remote online notarizations. With the global pandemic stifling many legal processes including, closing in-bank services and real estate offices, the state’s timing may seem clairvoyant. The new law helps to eliminate many of the current difficulties closing real estate transactions, as well as notarizing other legally binding documents. Not only is efficient technology being integrated into this important step in the
Seminole County Attorney: Leavitt v. Seminole County
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (JULY 30, 2020)- The Seminole County Attorney's Office issued the following statement regarding Leavitt v. Seminole County case and the Court’s Order: In a lawsuit recently filed against Seminole County by David Leavitt in the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court in Seminole County, the plaintiff was seeking the Court to enjoin Seminole County from enforcing the limited mask/facial covering requirement of a Seminole County Executive Order that was issued to protect the health of the
Happy Birthday to Kiddie Academy of Sanford-Heathrow!
Local business owners Ted and Hilda Cockram celebrated the one-year anniversary of Kiddie Academy of Sanford-Heathrow on July 15th and held a week-long celebration with teachers and enrolled families to commemorate the milestone. "It’s been a year like no other and we are so proud of everything we’ve accomplished despite the challenges! We're looking forward to continue serving our community for years to come with an awesome team beside us." The 10,000-square-foot educational child care center located
Don’t Forget Preventative Care
Most seniors have been taking health precautions these days. Handwashing, wearing a mask when advised to do so, and practicing social distancing help protect us from exposure to COVID-19. But this is no time to lose sight of our overall health. Healthcare providers report that many patients are failing to come in for preventative care. This could put them at risk for a host of health conditions-including more serious effects from COVID-19. Today, most healthcare facilities are ready and prepared to
Summer Skin Care and Safety in a Socially Distant, Outdoor World
With stay-at-home orders being lifted, you may be eager to get outside, especially as we take advantage of summertime. But before you head out for a jog in the sun or a lazy afternoon by the pool, remember that your health needs to remain a top priority. Some of the best parts of summer — like picnics, pool parties and sports outings — present new challenges in the wake of the pandemic. Healthy practices such as social distancing, washing our hands and wearing masks in public may impact our outdoor fun
The Circus Is Coming to Town
Before the circus arrives in town, the owners evaluate the demographics of the community to see if there are enough potential customers who are interested in seeing the circus. This is market research. The owners determine profitability by how much the average person may be willing to pay to see the show compared to how much it will cost to run the circus. This is pricing. The owners of the circus have established policies and procedures which outline the order and methods by which the organization
UCF Forum: Some Don’t Realize What a Profound Gift of Time This Pandemic Is
By Peter TelepUCF Forum columnist Which would make you happier: more time or more money? Most people want both and say they’d be happier if they had both. However, most of us spend the majority of our time chasing money and sacrificing our experiences and relationships in the quest for financial security. Our consumer-driven economy supports this notion that more money equals more happiness. Consequently, you need to work more overtime, make more money, and buy more stuff to be happy, right? Suddenly, a
Free Marketing Audits
Get Yours at TheCountessGroup.com before August 15 Orlando, FL – July 29, 2020 – Marketing is a complex animal. What may have worked before may not work now. Simply, it’s easy to fall behind. As a service to Seminole County Chamber members, The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and communications consultancy, is offering free marketing audit. The purpose of the audit is to help members understand how to get better results from their marketing efforts. Members can get
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Duke Energy Florida is awarding $655,000 workforce development and education grants
Duke Energy Florida is awarding $655,000 in grants to 19 workforce development and education programs as the region tackles economic disruptions from the coronavirus pandemic.The grants support education and training programs that address the most pressing skills gaps in communities served by Duke Energy Florida, as well as programs to cultivate the energy sector’s future workforce. Greater Orlando areaLake-Sumter State College Foundation – Increasing Access to Energy Technology Programs and Careers
Seminole County FL - JULY 29 COVID-19 AND STORM UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 29, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 6,272 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 2,995 confirmed cases are currently active; there have been 71 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 2:00PM PRESS CONFERENCE Join Seminole County Chairman Jay Zembower, Seminole
Perfect Game Partnership Projected to Nearly Double Hotel Room Night Generation
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL. (July 28, 2020) – Today, the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to finalize an agreement making Perfect Game, Inc. an anchor event organizer at the Boombah Sports Complex. Perfect Game, an Iowa based corporation, is the largest amateur baseball scouting and event service in the world, hosting amateur and youth baseball tournaments all over the country. This performance-based agreement, which would commence in January 2021, provides Perfect Game mutually
SCPS Increases AP Pass Rate For 2019-2020
(SANFORD, FL) – Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is proud to announce that the number of SCPS Seniors who scored 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam at any point during high school increased by 2% (from 41.8% to 43.9%). The percent of exams with scores of 3 or higher increased 4% (from 62% to 66%). The district percent passed average met or exceeded the state percent average on 29 out of 38 AP exams. In addition, the district percent passed average met or exceeded the global percent passed average on
Back 2 School Love for Teachers
Postnet Altamonte is offering all teachers, including home-school parents, low price copies for all of the 2020/2021 school year. 6-cent B&W and 19-cent color copies. Please let your teachers know! Additionally, PostNet will be offering Back 2 School discounts on other printing for August, September, and October.
On The + Side: Blankets, Zodiac Signs and Meerkats
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how to form healthy habits based on your Zodiac sign, livestream giraffe feedings, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
4 Ways Parents Can Encourage Summer Reading
With students on vacation, many will be tempted to focus all their time on fun – at the expense of those hard-earned reading skills they’ve gained throughout the school year. Parents who want their kids to maintain these critical skills should encourage reading between activities like swimming, TV and playing with friends. Here are a few tips to seamlessly build reading into your family’s summer schedule. 1. Check out your local library The library is a fantastic resource for books, eBooks and even
Are You Boring Your Virtual Audience?
Are you boring your listeners? In a virtual presentation, you may not see your audience, but you can tell if they have tuned you out. Do your questions go unanswered? Are there few comments in the chat box? Are you doing all the talking—even when you unmute your participants? If you answered “yes” to those questions, you may be a “Novocain speaker”. This means, you are knocking out your audience quicker than a dentist numbs your gums before filling a cavity. If your slides are text-heavy and you rely
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Two Orlando Health Hospitals Named Best Places to Work
Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and South Seminole Hospital Earn Award Orlando, FL (July 20, 2020) – Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital have been named by Modern Healthcare to the 2020 Best Places to Work in Healthcare. The complete list of this year’s winners, in alphabetical order, is available at ModernHealthcare.com/bestplaceslist. Modern Healthcare will publish a special supplement featuring a ranked list of all the winners along with the October 12
ACE Human Resources Signs Newest Client, Proficiency Background Services
Last week, ACE Human Resources signed their newest client Proficiency Background Services with their Hot Deal for “Ongoing HR Support Services”. Proficiency Background Services provides businesses with pre-employment and ongoing criminal background checks, Level 2 fingerprinting, motor vehicle reports, civil court records and a variety of other screening services. Proficiency Background Services currently has an office location in Orlando, FL with one employee and is planning on opening additional office
Celebrating Life’s Special Moments Safely While Social Distancing
Spending most of your time away from others can feel strange. But that doesn’t mean you have to stop having the celebrations that make life joyous and fulfilling. Many of our most cherished traditions have persevered through time. They have adapted and taken on new life amid difficulties. Today, with added stress and social distancing, we’re once again adapting our celebrations to the times. We’re finding new ways to celebrate one another and forging innovative connections between loved ones (and
When “Back to School” Isn’t Back to Normal
Parenting is never easy, but 2020 has been especially taxing. Over the past few months, we’ve learned to navigate closed classrooms, virtual learning, lockdowns, and medical precautions – and, not least of all, the herculean feat of keeping kids entertained at home. But with Florida schools slated to open in the fall, parents face a new dilemma: stick with virtual learning, or send kids back to class? With so many complicating factors – work, health, education, social development, emotional wellness
UCF Forum: Each Human Being is Precious
By Syretta Spears UCF Forum columnist Many have taken offense to the slogan Black Lives Matter. The rebuttal is often that All Lives Matter. They absolutely should all matter, but this reply misses the point: A population of Americans – Black Americans – is in danger due to discrimination and violence. While the intention of the phrase, All Lives Matter, may be to convey a sense of unification and equality, the phrase can be insensitive and divisive as it lessens the focus of real discrimination and
Timely Marketing Info At Your Fingertips
New Curated Content Available Daily at TheCountessGroup.com Orlando, FL – July 22, 2020 – “I know how hard it is to stay up-to-date when you’re trying to run your business,” Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group often says. “That’s why we’ve added a daily dose of information you can use to help you run your business.” With so many businesses struggling to stay focused and keep things moving in the right direction, The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and
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Duke Energy Florida Plans Gradual Return To Standard Business Operations While Extending Assistance
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida will continue assisting customers experiencing economic hardship from the COVID-19 pandemic as the company begins returning to standard billing and payment practices in mid-August. However, the earliest disconnections for non-payment under regular credit and notice timelines will not begin until Sept. 1 for customers. In March, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company immediately launched a sweeping series of steps to help customers, including
Avon's Response to Covid-19
Do you fall into one or more of these categories: Baby Boomer, 55+, do you have a chronic illness, or are you fearful of the Covid-19? My hope (prayer) is that if you do, you are maintaining Social Distancing and wear a mask on leaving your home. Regardless of the “opening up of Florida” and the opening up of schools, we still need to be ultra-cautious. Much of what I have been doing for 16 years has not changed. I deliver products to doorsteps with little if any personal contact, wearing my
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[Estate Planning] Free Living Wills for Teachers
Orlando, Florida: The Orlando Law Group would like to honor teachers’ commitment to bettering education in Central Florida with an offer for a free Living Will, which allows people to make their own decisions about life support and other life saving measures to help their families and to make sure their wishes are followed. The Orlando Law Group is also offering substantial discounts for school employees on our COMPLETE WILL PACKAGES. The benefits to having a will include: Letting you decide how your
Do you suffer from Zoom Fatigue?
What does your ‘Zoom schedule’ look like? Zoom meetings for your department, your board meetings, committee meetings, those impromptu project meetings, your volunteer organizations meetings and let’s not forget those social zoom meetings after work. Like most, you are properly feeling a mental fatigue that erupts when you see your calendar and say…not another zoom call. Since we have been working remotely and under quarantine, what better way to stay connected... than through zoom. For some, it is an old
On The + Side: Art Therapy, Beluga Whales and Metallica
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about how Metallica is helping students build high-demand skills, what to know before choosing a hotel during the pandemic, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
You Could Save Hundreds, Maybe Thousands of Dollars!
Given our economic environment, this headline sounds great, right? With today’s tax laws and proper accounting and bookkeeping records, I can help you potentially realize this kind of savings for your business, too.Unfortunately, many are unsure the proper tax filing status for their business situation. Couple that with common mistakes made on business tax returns, and that’s money you are paying Uncle Sam instead of putting back into your business or in your pocket. Call me today for a free consultation
RB Advisory Makes The Grade: Listed In Top 12 Cyber And Risk Analytics Companies
(WINTER PARK, FL, July 2020): RB Advisory is proud to announce that we have been added to this esteemed list of cyber and risk analytic companies for July 2020. Together with our partners, WhiteHawk and CyberOne, we are penetrating the Federal contracting industries with our powerhouse approach to CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification). Maintaining a focus on what expertise is necessary for the client, our triple-threat approach helps maximize the client’s security and compliance. CMMC is a
iHeartMedia Launches The “SmartAudio Covid Recovery Program”
iHeartMedia’s SmartAudio COVID Recovery Program Introduces Three New Products To Help Advertisers Leverage iHeart’s Broadcast Radio Stations and Digital Platforms To Reach Their Consumers in a Post-COVID World iHeartMedia, the leading audio company in the U.S. and No. 1 commercial podcast publisher globally, today announced the “SmartAudio COVID Recovery Program,” a suite of three new innovative SmartAudio products that enable businesses to utilize iHeartMedia’s unparalleled data and scale to re-engage
Florida Blue again named a “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion”
Health insurer earns top score on Disability Equality Index for sixth timeJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Florida Blue, the leading health insurer in Florida, earned a score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index (DEI) survey for initiatives to support employees with mental health and caregiving programs while at the same time providing more than $1.5 million in charitable donations to programs that support people with disabilities.Top-scoring businesses are recognized as Best Places to Work for Disability
SCSO Communications Center Accreditation Assessment Team Invites Public Comment
Seminole Co. (July 17, 2020) – The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center is scheduled for a site-based assessment as part of a program to achieve reaccreditation by verifying it meets professional standards. Due to COVID-19, this assessment will be conducted remotely.Administered by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA® ), the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedures,
Tips to Keep Your Family Safe at the Theme Park
Social distancing isn’t something that most kids easily understand, especially at a theme park. It’s vitally important, though, for you and your family to stay 6 feet apart from others while experiencing the fun. Here’s what you should know before you go with tips to help kids feel prepared for a safe day at the park. Why Social Distancing Matters As communities begin to reopen, it’s still important to maintain proper social distancing. Staying at least 6 feet away from anyone outside your
Membership Has Its Benefits With Thousands Of Dollars In Discount Coupons
Sanford, Florida: Harry Parkhurst, president of The Cranefeather Society, announced the addition of a major member benefit. “While joining our Freedom Brigade offers the opportunity to add the power of many voices and votes to compel the cutting of taxes by 40%. As members they will enjoy thousands of dollars in discount coupons to help cut costs at a time when we need it most,” Harry explained. The Freedom Brigade was created to gather voices and votes in a 100 million-member organization. Its purpose
Seminole County FL - JULY 15 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 15, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 2:00PM PRESS CONFERENCE Join Seminole County Chairman Jay Zembower, Seminole State College President Dr. Georgia Lorenz, and Seminole County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin for a press conference regarding COVID-19
The Countess Group’s VIP Club Reaches 1,800 Member Milestone
Businesses and Non-profits Receive Up To $2,000 in Free Marketing Help Orlando, FL – July 15, 2020 – With its members understanding the value of free email marketing expert help, The Countess Group, an internationally recognized strategic marketing and communications consultancy, announced today that over its lifetime, its VIP Club membership has blossomed to over 1,800 businesses and non-profit organizations. The Countess Group’s VIP Club enables its members to receive up to $2,000 in free services to
SCPS 2020-21 Reopening Plan & Educational Options
Dear SCPS Families, The School Board has finalized our School Reopening Plan and Student Options for the 2020-2021 School Year. Additionally, the Board has voted to delay the start of the 2020-2021 School Year to Monday, August 17, 2020. Please view this important message from Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin, click here. To assist in making your decision, please see the Student Learning Options & Decision Tree flyers
Registration Closes Soon for the Nemours School Health Conference
School nurses in Florida are invited to attend our virtual School Health Conference, being held Thursday, July 30. This program for school nurses and school health professionals provides 4 CE hours and is free of charge. Learn how to apply best practices in school health, as taught by leading health professionals. Program Schedule: 8:00 a.m. Mental Health, Lisa Spector, MD 9:15 a.m. Food Allergies, Jordan Smallwood, MD. 10:00 a.m. Break 10:15 a.m. Emerging
ACE Human Resources Announces New Contract for Returning Client Pro Inspect Solutions
Last month, ACE Human Resources delivered their customized “Independent Contractor Onboarding Toolkit” for Pro Inspect Solutions. Pro Inspect Solutions is a Florida licensed home inspection company including ancillary inspections in Wind Mitigation, IAC2 Mold and Moisture Intrusion. Currently the CEO Quintavius Bell is the sole inspector of the company with one additional employee, his Administrative Assistant. Quintavius has decided to grow his business by hiring other home inspectors as independent
IDShield Creates First Comprehensive Solution for Consumer Online Privacy and Protection, Offering Reputation Management to Clean Up Social Media Accounts, Profiles and Content
ADA, Okla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IDShield, a leading provider of identity theft protection, privacy and reputation monitoring, announced today that it has expanded its suite of product offerings to include proactive reputation management. This feature allows consumers to quickly find and review old social media accounts, delete potentially offensive online content and, ultimately, safeguard their personal reputations. To support its new reputation management solution, IDShield is partnering with
Addition Financial Sponsors CareerSource Central Florida Summer Youth Program
Lake Mary, Fla. (July 13, 2020) – To support local teenagers as they pursue summer internships and professional skills training, Addition Financial has been named the Platinum Sponsor of the CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) Summer Youth Program through December 2021. The Summer Youth Program is a workforce development program for youth between the ages of 16 and 19 designed to fuel young adult’s career opportunities and educational growth potential. It serves as a unique program that helps young adults
On The + Side: Live Music, Face Masks and Healthy Recipes
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about UCF face masks, socially distanced music events, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
How to Earn (and Save) on a No-Income Budget
If you’re out of work right now, you aren’t alone. Millions of Americans have had their lives and livelihoods impacted by COVID-19. But just because you don’t have an active income doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from a budget: In fact, it’s even more important to have a financial game plan in place as you get back on your feet. Traditional budgeting dictates that you should spend no more than half your income on necessary expenses. But what do you do when that income is zero? Of course, you still need to
Stacy Luna Featured as a 2020 Five Star Mortgage Professional in Orlando Sentinel
Make your way to newsstands to see STACY LUNA featured as a 2020 Five Star Mortgage Professional in the Sunday, July 19 2020 issue of the Orlando Sentinel. STACY is one of a small percentage of professionals in the Orlando area to receive this prestigious award recognizing excellence in client satisfaction. STACY can be found in the Orlando Sentinel and also online on FiveStarProfessional.com. Click through to STACY's social post here to learn more about STACY and share in their
Stacy Luna & Atlantic Bay Help you save up to $1000 with AB Works for all Chamber Members
Maitland, FL – Atlantic Bay Works offers all Chamber members up to $1000 off closing cost when financing a purchase or refinance through Stacy Luna. Both Atlantic Bay and Stacy Luna have been in the mortgage industry providing home financing for over 23 years. As a direct lender, Atlantic Bay offers a multitude of lending products including, FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA, JUMBO. While controlling the underwriting process in house, Atlantic Bay has the unique ability to provide a high level of service
Entrepreneurs Wanted: Apply Now for Walmart’s 7th Annual Open Call for U.S.-Manufactured Products
ORLANDO, Fla., July 10, 2020 – The application process for Walmart’s seventh annual Open Call is open and the company invites entrepreneurs dreaming of landing their U.S.-manufactured products on Walmart shelves to apply for the opportunity to meet with Walmart buyers on October 1, 2020 via virtual pitch meetings. The deadline to apply to participate in this year's Open Call for U.S.-manufactured products is August 10. The application and additional information about the event are available
Tips to Calm Your Child’s Worries About Returning to School
This year, returning to school may look and feel a lot different. And while we may not know exactly how different school will be for kids and families, the usual mixed emotions about returning to school will undoubtedly be met with heightened concerns regarding protecting your family from COVID-19. To ease your minds, we’re here to support you with some general tips on preparing to return to school feeling more empowered as a family. Get Familiar Before School Starts An introduction to their new
Lyman High School CTE Building Groundbreaking
(LONGWOOD, FL) Lyman High School will host a groundbreaking ceremony for their new CTE (Career & Technical Education) Building. The groundbreaking will take place on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. behind Building #4 at Lyman High School located at 865 S. Ronald Reagan Blvd., Longwood, FL 32750. The CTE Building Project is $7,800,000 and is being funded through the voters approved Sales Tax. Construction for the new CTE Building is planned to be completed prior to the start of the 2021/22 school year.
UCF Forum: A Long Walk and the Kindness of Strangers
By Katie PhilpUCF Forum columnistI worked a few years ago in a rural region of Kenya, supporting environmental educators in a small but ecologically important rain forest. Once, after a weekend in a neighboring town visiting friends, I stepped off the bus as close as a paved road could get me to my home and prepared to hire a bicycle taxi to take me the rest of the way on the dirt road. I soon realized with dismay that a recent heavy rain had turned the road back to my village into a red ribbon of mud.I’d
The Sharing Center Launched #GivingIsEssential Initiative to Raise Critically Needed Funds for Families & Individuals in Need
LONGWOOD, FL, July 9, 2020 — Since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, The Sharing Center has remained open to serve every neighbor experiencing the burdens of poverty and personal hardships. It is imperative we continue providing essential resources to our community, especially during these extraordinary times. As the community heads back to work after the COVID shutdown and begins to put the pieces of their lives back together, The Sharing Center has continued to serve an increased number of
St. Petersburg City Council approves Bayfront Health land lease agreement with Orlando Health
St. Petersburg, FL (July 9, 2020) – Today, Orlando Health received approval from the St. Petersburg City Council on a 50-year agreement to lease the land on which Bayfront Health is located. City approval of the land lease was required in order for Orlando Health to move forward with its acquisition of the hospital. In June, the healthcare organization signed a definitive agreement with Community Health Systems (CHS) to purchase Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. “This is an exciting time for the St.
Goodwill Hosts Free Webinar For Job Seekers On July 17
Webinar Series Is an Extension of Nonprofit’s Job Connection Services On Fri., July 17, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida’s Job Connection Center will host a free webinar for job seekers. The latest in a series of virtual presentations, it will focus on effective search techniques. Attendees will also receive advice for avoiding the most common job search mistakes. Interested participants can register by visitinghttps://bit.ly/3iHDolF. With more than 2.4 million people in
The Orlando Sanford International Airport Announces The Hiring of a New President
Sanford, FL- July 7, 2020—The Sanford Airport Authority Board of Directors voted to approve the contract for a new CEO and President of the airport. “After a 6-month long search the board has selected Tom Nolan, who joins us after leading the the Palm Springs International Airport in California for the past 13 years,” said Tom Green, Sanford Airport Authority Chairman. “We had a high quality group of exceptional candidates from across the country, a testament to both our Airport’s past successes and future
COVID - 19 Notice Of Work Session And Special School Board Meeting
The School Board of Seminole County will hold two meetings on Tuesday, July 14, 2020. The Board will meet at 8:30 a.m. for a Reopening Work Session and at 5:30 p.m. for a Special School Board meeting. In consideration of the current health and safety concerns for our community; the various emergency executive and administrative orders entered by Federal, State, and Local Governmental authorities; in order to continue to perform essential functions in a manner consistent with law and board policy; and to
Named a Five Star Professional again this year!
I am so honored to share that I have been named a Five Star Professional again this year for my Real Estate services. There will be an article about this printed in the Orlando Sentinel this Sunday, July 19. I am so excited to be given this designation. If you, or anyone you know is in need of real estate services, please let me know that you want that "Five Star Service" and I’ll give you a DISCOUNT or REBATE.
Spanish Language Radio Station Éxitos 96.5 to Launch in Orlando on Monday June 29
News and Talk Leader WDBO Now Available on AM580 and 107.3 FM ORLANDO, Fla. – Wednesday, June 24, 2020 – Cox Media Group announces it will launch Spanish language radio station Éxitos 96.5 FM on Monday June 29, 2020. The new radio station will serve the burgeoning Hispanic community in Central Florida and bring audiences a new, fresh choice for local music, entertainment and information. Éxitos 96.5 will feature hits from artists like Marc Anthony, Romeo Santos, Juan Luis Guerra and
Seminole County FL - JULY 7 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 7, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 3,517 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 2,570 confirmed cases are currently active; there have been 20 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. 2:00PM PRESS CONFERENCE Join Chairman Jay Zembower, Emergency Manager Alan
Addition Financial Launches Valencia College Branded Debit Card
Lake Mary, Fla. (July 6, 2020) – To help students and alumni showcase their school pride, Addition Financial has unveiled a new co-branded Valencia College debit card. The card will be available in all Addition Financial branches and can be used anywhere VISA® is accepted. Named the Preferred Credit Union for Valencia College in 2018, Addition Financial offers a variety of specialized products and services for students, faculty and staff. In addition, the credit union partners with Valencia College to
Seminole Science Charter School Student Named State Merit Winner in 3M Young Scientist Challenge 202
Siddharth Kini, an eighth-grade student from Seminole Science Charter School, was named the State Merit Winner from Florida in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge 2020 for his “Gnomer Bot.” As the nation’s premier middle school science competition, Siddharth was one of 27 State Merit Winners to submit outstanding projects utilizing the power of STEM to improve the world. Winners were selected for their passion, innovation, and superb communication skills. Each State Merit Winner receives special recognition on
On The + Side: Wildflowers, Chocolate and Gratitude
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about free digital dance events, the magic of “mundane gratitude,” and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Seminole County Offers PPE and More for Small Businesses
Seminole County Economic Development has compiled a list of potential personal protective equipment distributors to assist businesses as they reopen. Also, we have reusable cloth masks, "I wear my mask for you" buttons and stickers, and social distancing floor decals available for small businesses (while supplies last). Simply call 407-665-0000 to request and we will deliver. And download your free poster here.
A Safer Home for Senior Independence
Where would you like to live as you grow older? Surveys of people 50 years old and up show that a large majority want to age in place, staying in their own homes even as their health needs change. They want to remain in the surroundings to which they are accustomed, in their established neighborhood with familiar shops and services. Through the years they have grown an informal support system of family, friends and neighbors. Home is where their roots are! But as the years pass, families
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St. Cloud Regional Medical Center joins Orlando Health
Facility is renamed Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Orlando, FL (July 1, 2020) – Effective July 1, 2020, Orlando Health has completed the acquisition of the 84-bed St. Cloud Regional Medical Center and its associated healthcare operations in St. Cloud, Florida from an affiliate of Community Health Systems. Orlando Health has held a 20 percent minority interest in the hospital for more than 15 years and with this transaction, the facility will now be referred to as Orlando Health St. Cloud
Are You Experiencing Developmental Moments?
Rise and Shine Consulting Firm asks that question to each employee, each leader and each individual. Are you experiencing developmental moments? Developmental moments are those bursts of insight, motivation and training where you can experience it and then immediate use it. It’s an opportunity for you and your team to learn a new concept, get motivated, learn a technique in a few short minutes that will help you during the day. An example of a developmental moment is, “The Rule of 5”. The Rule of 5
Girl Scouts of Citrus Virtual Camp
For the first time in over 49 years, Girl Scout’s camp Mah-Kah-Wee in Chuluota stands empty as girls remain safely at home. But, as Girl Scouts of Citrus (GSC) has demonstrated, the spirit of summer camp cannot be silenced. WFTV recently reported on how summer camp has gone virtual as GSC blazes a new path for girls to experience summertime traditions. GSC’s outdoor program staff showed great creativity as they quickly pivoted into developing virtual experiences that give girls the opportunity to
Easy-To-Use Website Builder Now Available
Seminole County, Fla. — July 1, 2020 – If your company doesn’t have a website, your prospects question your credibility as a business. That’s why The Countess Group now makes a free website builder available to its clients who start a Constant Contact subscription through The Countess Group. And free training is offered, too, so you get it right the first time. “So many businesses are fearful of the cost of hiring a designer to get a new website – or fear it’s too complicated to build one on
Seminole County FL - JULY 1 COVID 19 UPDATE
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (July 1, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There have been 2,735 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 2,018 confirmed cases are currently active; there have been 17 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. SOCIAL DISTANCING AND FACIAL COVERING ORDER IN EFFECT TODAY Effective today,
Your AdventHealth News: Tips for Getting Toddlers to Wear Masks
If you’ve ever tried to persuade a willful toddler to wear sunglasses or a hat on a sunny day, you know how tricky it can be to get kids to do something they don’t want to. Convincing a young child to wear a face mask may feel like a similar struggle. But to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that nearly everyone ages 2 and older wear a face mask when they’re out in a public place, such as at the grocery store. But there are an few
Central Florida HCA Healthcare Hospitals Offer Hotline To Help Individuals And Families Find Health Insurance Coverage Amid Economic Impacts Of Covid-19
Orlando, FLA. – As Florida continues to experience a high unemployment rate amid the coronavirus pandemic, the loss of health insurance coverage is also a major concern of those who are unemployed. HCA Healthcare hospitals in Central Florida have made available a free insurance hotline to help individuals and families who have lost health insurance coverage find temporary coverage while they are unemployed. The Health Coverage Hotline is available to anyone needing assistance and is live Monday through
Seminole State Joins First Scholars To Serve First-Generation Students
SANFORD, Fla. (June 29, 2020) - Seminole State College of Florida has been selected to join the inaugural cohort of First Scholars Network institutions after demonstrating a commitment to advancing the outcomes of first-generation students through improving both student success initiatives and institution-wide approaches. First Scholars was created by the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation. The
On The + Side: Fireworks Shows, Virtual Camps and Journaling Tips
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about virtual 4th of July celebrations, delicious make-ahead cookout dishes, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Embrace Families Celebrates National Reunification Month
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 25, 2020) – In honor of National Reunification Month this June, Central Florida’s leading foster care nonprofit, Embrace Families, shared statistics that illustrate the importance of reunification programs in building stronger families and communities. Since its founding in 2004, Embrace Families has followed a reunification-first model. The nonprofit seeks to keep children out of foster care – and to limit the emotional and psychological harm of separation – by helping parents build
''The Match'' Golf Tournament Raises Much-Needed Funds for the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
SANFORD, Fla., June 26, 2020—On Wednesday, June 24, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens was presented with a check for $13,000 by former Sanford Mayor, Jeff Triplett, General Manager of Mayfair Country Club, Pete Sands, and Mayor of Longwood, Matt Morgan. During the Zoo's closure, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), Pete Sands of Mayfair Country Club challenged then-Sanford Mayor, Jeff Triplett to a 9-hole game of golf. The Match was promoted through social media and followers were
SHRM, LegalShield Partner to Launch New, Affordable Legal Product to Support Small Businesses: SHRM LegalNetwork
In response to growing demand, SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) today announced a new product offering for human resource professionals working for small businesses. SHRM LegalNetwork provides businesses with affordable, legal resources during a time when many are especially concerned about legal guidance, compliance, and liability issues. The product will be supported through LegalShield, a long-time provider of legal plans for small businesses.SHRM LegalNetwork is available to HR professionals
UCF Forum: A New Kind of Presidency
By Jeff KunerthUCF Forum columnistNobody asked, but I've become a speech writer: Thank you, thank you. I accept the nomination as your presidential candidate. Traumatic times are transformative times. The pandemic and protests have changed us, now and forever. These crises have exposed deep, systemic inequities within our economy, healthcare, education, criminal justice and race relations that will take decades, not years, to fix. But our tradition of electing a new president every four years doesn't
GuideWell Launches $100K Challenge to Address Health and Racial Inequities
-Health access challenge seeks solutions aimed at reducing health care and health literacy disparities - ORLANDO, Fla. – June 24, 2020 – GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (GuideWell), the parent to a family of forward-thinking companies focused on transforming health care including that state’s leading health insurer, Florida Blue, is launching Reshaping Health Access, a statewide challenge to identify solutions focused on addressing health access and literacy to underserved populations in
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LHC Group And Orlando Health Announce Joint Venture Agreement
Partnership to include home health and home and community based services in four Florida cities LAFAYETTE, La. (June 24, 2020) – LHC Group (NASDAQ: LHCG) and Orlando Health have announced signing a definitive agreement to form a new joint venture to enhance home health and home and community based services (HCBS) in the state of Florida. The joint venture will include six total locations – three current Orlando Health providers and three current LHC Group providers in Orlando, Clermont,
Panera Bread Announces #FREECOFFEE4SUMMER!
ORLANDO, Fla., June 24, 2020 – This week, Panera Bread announced #FREECOFFEE4SUMMER—anyone signed up for the MyPanera+Coffee subscription will enjoy free, unlimited premium hot coffee, hot tea and iced coffee until Labor Day. Sign-ups will be open until July 4. Guests can get any size, any flavor once every two hours with unlimited refills in the bakery-cafe—that means plenty of coffee to pair with your favorite bagel, sandwich or afternoon sweet treat. Panera’s drip and iced coffee offerings include
The Countess Group Congratulates Chamber Member Dan Lopez
Seminole County, Fla. — June 24, 2020 – The Seminole County Chamber recently held its annual meeting – this year, virtually. One of the prizes offered was a free month of The Countess Group’s “Marketing Made Easy,” a marketing training membership program which includes live, online, weekly classes via Zoom combined with a website containing archives of calls and resources. Winner of the free month of membership was Dan Lopez, a Seminole County Chamber. Dan is a broker with Legends Realty, a Central
Elevation Health Announces a Workshop on Building a Titanium Strength Immune System
Lake Mary, Florida: Elevation Health will be hosting an online event, the Titanium Immune System Workshop, July 20, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. EST. This online workshop will be focusing on how to support your immune system and protect yourself from deadly viruses and infections. The Titanium Immune System Workshop will be hosted, and facilitated live, by Dr. Dan Yachter. Dr. Yachter has 23 years of experience as a health and wellness expert and is the founder of Elevation Health, a state-of-the-art
Orlando Sanford International Airport Offers a Quicker, Safer Way to Park with Contactless Parking
Sanford, FL, June 23, 2020—Passengers at Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) can park and go with ease using the airport’s new contactless parking system through REEF Technology. REEF Technology is a revolutionary platform that takes the hassle out of parking. With the launch of the new system, the days of grabbing a ticket are over. REEF’s license plate recognition system captures and records a passenger’s plate upon entry of the lot and automatically raises the bar. When leaving the lot, the
Fireworks Safety: 9 Tips From ER Doctors
On the Fourth of July, people across the country will head outside to fire up the grill, cool off in the pool and have a delicious potluck picnic. And what better way to end a long, relaxing day in the sun than lighting up the sky with red, white and blue fireworks? But with those spectacular displays come some real dangers. It’s extremely important to have a safety plan with fireworks of all sizes, as an unexpected injury could mean a visit to your local emergency department. Many emergency doctors
Embrace Families: Graduation Parades
Embrace Families recently hosted three drive-by graduation parades in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties for 40 youths in foster care. All students honored with car honking, sign waving and “contactless” gift delivery either graduated from high school, college or vocational school. According to the National Foster Youth Institute, approximately 50% of youth in foster care complete high school. However, young adults in foster care in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties have a higher success rate of
On The + Side: Fog-Free Glasses, Healthy Recipes and Science Plays
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about workouts designed by Cirque du Soleil performers, healthy summer recipes, ways to keep your glasses fog-free while wearing a mask, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Bitman O’brien & Morat Announces Cajthaml As Of Counsel For Mortgage Service And Finance Department
Faron Cajthaml adds 30 years of legal expertise to the firm ORLANDO, Fla. (June 22, 2020) — Bitman O’Brien & Morat, PLLC welcomes Faron Cajthaml as of counsel for the mortgage servicing and consumer finance department. His 30 years of experience has been focused in financial services and the banking industry. Cajthaml served as general counsel for industry leaders including Bank of America, Select Portfolio Servicing, Inc., JP Morgan Chase Bank and USAA Federal Savings Bank. He also has
Orlando Magic and Florida Blue Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Baskets for Books Program with
-The Baskets for Books program has donated more than 50,000 books to Early Learning Coalition since program inception- Orlando, Fla. (June 22, 2020) — In a continuing effort to develop lifelong learners through literacy and education, the Orlando Magic and Florida Blue are teaming up to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Baskets for Books program by offering a virtual children's book, STUFF & SUNNY Take Flight. The children's book features the unique, encouraging friendship of STUFF the Magic Mascot
Seminole State Announces Plan For Phased Reopening For Fall 2020
Most classes will remain in online or remote format for Fall Term with limited exceptions. SANFORD, Fla. (June 22, 2020) – Classes at Seminole State College of Florida will continue in online and remote format for Fall Term 2020, but a limited number of classes and services will be offered in person as part of the College’s plan for a phased reopening. The College’s Safe Campus Reopening Task Force, representing all employee groups and the student body, presented the general recommendations to the
CareerSource Central Florida Reopens its Osceola County Career Center At the Valencia College Campus on June 24
Orlando, Fla., - Beginning June 24, CareerSource Central Florida’s (CSCF) Osceola County Career Center will reopen its doors to customers for in-person, by appointment only services between 10 AM to Noon and 1 PM to 4 PM Monday through Friday. The center is located on the third floor of the Careers in Industry & Technology (CIT) building on the east side of the Valencia College campus. CSCF will follow health and safety measures in alignment with the College and official state and local guidelines, ranging
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction starts Wendover’s new Hartland Station Apartments in Atlanta
For Immediate Release June 20, 2020 Contact: Ken Cristol, Cristol Marketing Company 407-774-2515(Authorized agency for Roger B. Kennedy Construction) ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (June 20, 2020) – Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction broke ground for Hartland Station Apartments in Atlanta, under an $18 million contract with an affiliate of Wendover Housing Partners. Located at 2060 Fleet Street SW, the three-story, 131-unit project was designed by Slocum Platts Architects,
Are You Shifting Gears with Your Voice?
Protesters are yelling: “Black Lives Matter,” “I Can’t Breathe,” or “No Justice, No Peace”. They are raising their voices to amplify their message. But raising your voice is only one way to get your message across. Many of you are speaking to business audiences who are distracted at home and at work. You need more than one way to grab attention. Your voice is your greatest communications tool. To be heard, you need to master the fine art of shifting vocal gears. Many speakers get stuck in one gear and
Your Business Photographer is now FAA Licensed to Provide Drone Aerial Photography
As of December 31, 2019, there were approximately 160,302 drone certified pilots in the U.S., of those, only 10,818 or 6.7% were women. Erin Kamalzadeh, with Your Business Photographer, has joined this group of individuals and is now FAA licensed to operate a drone. Many are not aware that in order to operate a drone, for monetary purposes, the operator must be licensed through the FAA.Erin is born and raised a Native Floridian and understands the importance of economic growth and development in local
Sweet Bites & Bikes
Sweet Bites & Bikes is a virtually converted event from our annual fundraiser, Sweet Charity to help raise the necessary funds to continue providing essential resources to our neighbors in need. Participants are invited to pledge to bike 34 miles or run/walk 3.4 miles in recognition of the 34 years The Sharing Center has supported our community. Funds raised during this event will help provide urgently needed financial assistance, such as rent and utilities, as well as help our homeless neighbors experience
Seminole County FL - June 19: COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 19, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are have been 1,117 confirmed cases in Seminole County, and 521 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 14 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. INCREASE IN POSITIVE CASES Over 40 cases populated in the last 24 hours as a
A Safe Place to Receive Care that Can't Wait
Central Florida Regional Hospital and Oviedo Medical Center are staffed with experienced clinicians who are ready to assist patients with health emergencies, whether COVID-19 related or not. As part of their larger network, HCA Healthcare, Central Florida Regional Hospital and Oviedo Medical Center are proactively engaged in the safe management of COVID-19, and have put a strong emphasis on ensuring that protections are in place at all of their ERs and sites of care. This means that the emergency
GuideWell, Florida Blue and Florida Blue Foundation Pledge Support to Tackle Systemic Racism
Launch of Equity Alliance with commitment of $25 million in investments over five years to address racial injustice and health inequities in Black communities ORLANDO, Fla., June 19, 2020 – GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (GuideWell), the parent to a family of forward-thinking companies focused on transforming health care; Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer; and Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Florida Blue, today announced $25 million in investments over five years
Free Patient Education Virtual Seminar
Free Patient Education Virtual Seminar Do you feel like you are always running to the bathroom? Bowel dysfunction can affect people of all ages but has an increased prevalence in older adults. Patients are generally embarrassed to discuss bowel accidents, leakage, urgency and frequency issues with their healthcare provider. We Can Help, call us at 407-644-4014 for a consultation
Seminole County FL - June 18: COVID-19 Update
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 18, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are have been 986 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 972 of which are Seminole County residents and 498 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 14 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. INCREASE IN POSITIVE CASES After a
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Seminole State’s Emil Buehler Planetarium Co-hosts Nationwide Virtual Solarbration on Saturday
One trip around the cosmos is never enough, that’s why the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium at Seminole State College of Florida is teaming up with astronomers and planetariums from all over the country to host a Solarbration. Telescopes from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, the Central Florida Astronomical Society, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association and the Feynman Observatory will all point to the sky on Saturday, June 20, 2020
Rest in Peace, Mary I. Johnson, VSC's Founder
It is with deepest regrets we share the news of the recent passing of VSC Founder, Commissioner Mary I. Johnson who died earlier this month in her home. Commissioner Johnson was the first Hispanic to be elected to the Orlando City Council where she served three terms between 1980-1992. Then, in 1992 she became the first Hispanic to be elected to the Orange County Board of County Commissioners where she served another 12 years (3 terms) until retiring from public service in in 2004. During her 24 year tenure
Kids House Wayne Densch Children's Advocacy Center Announces New Leadership
SANFORD, Fla., June 17, 2020 – Kids House Wayne Densch Children's Advocacy Center is pleased to announce that Juliette Kong has been named as chief executive officer by the organization’s board of directors, effective last month. Kong previously served as associate executive director and interim executive director. She is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization, overseeing the executive leadership team and providing oversight, guidance and strategic planning for the organization. “I
Sheryl Mays, CEO of Rise and Shine CF, Speaker at Empowering Women in Industry Conference 2020
“I’m excited to be asked to serve, as a speaker, for the Empowering Women in Industry Conference 2020. Empowering women is a life-long mission of mine. Helping women look inside and realize they have exactly what it takes to sit at the table; and, be accepted on merit and treated with fairness is a role we must all take part in. Leadership is based on empowering, motivating and inspiring. My past has been a woman on an all-male team with a male supervisor. My past has been feeling undeserving of the
84 New Videos and a Free Trial
“Marketing Made Easy” Expands Seminole County, Fla. — June 17, 2020 – The Countess Group today announced availability of 84 more videos on its “Marketing Made Easy” online learning platform. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, also announced a free 3-day trial of the class. Ongoing membership is month-to-month with no contracts. “Our goal is to give Seminole County Chamber members the tools to be better marketers,” said Countess. “What better way than to offer a 3-day free
UCF Forum: The World is Changing — and I'm Ready to Evolve With It
By Lillian M. Hernández Caraballo UCF Forum columnist “What a long year this week has been,” someone I know posted to Facebook. I’m guessing she had an exhausting day. One so draining that she felt as if she had given more time than she had available to give in a single day. She is not alone. Many people have expressed how emotionally spent they feel lately. Some say they feel hopeless. Even memes have grown rather dark, as each day we wait for the next bout of disastrous events to be announced. A
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction starts UNICORP’s The Avenue on Oakland apartments under a $47M contract
For Immediate Release June 16, 2020 Contact: Ken Cristol, Cristol Marketing Company 407-774-2515(Authorized agency for Roger B. Kennedy Construction) ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (June 16, 2020) – Altamonte Springs-based Roger B. Kennedy Construction broke ground in June for The Avenue on Oakland apartment community under a $47 million contract with UNICORP National Developments, Inc., Orlando. Marking Kennedy’s fifth major project for UNICORP, the upscale 342-unit complex will be located at 17210
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Announces Sustainability Campaign
SANFORD, Fla., June 16, 2020—The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens announced a new sustainability campaign to help combat financial losses in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. The "There Is No Zoo Without You" sustainability campaign launched today with a public plea for support. Though the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has reopened to the public, following a two-month closure to help stop the spread of COVID-19, community support is being sought to bridge the gap of more than
Your Orthopedic Visit at AdventHealth - Protecting You and Keeping You Safe During
Muscle, bone and joint problems might have seemed less important lately — you may have even had an appointment or procedure rescheduled — but your whole health and mobility matters just as much now as it ever has. We’re here to serve all your health care needs safely, and we want to assure you that we’ve taken extra safety measures when you get in-person care. In some cases, you’ll need care that can only be provided in person. We understand if you have questions about coming in for a visit or
Join us to uncover strategies to help you “Structure Your Financial Life”
Join us to uncover strategies to help you “Structure Your Financial Life” where we will be providing valuable information, tips and tools to help you achieve financial security. Attendees will learn how to build a strong financial foundation.Topics covered will address common questions such as:Am I saving enough?Am I covered for that?How can I keep more of what I earn? All while striving to protect against risk and life’s unexpected
On The + Side: Comfort Pies, Baby Koalas and Wellness Sessions
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about free online wellness sessions, children’s books to empower our youth, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
New Cath Lab and Lobby Open at South Seminole Hospital
Orlando Health Continues Investment into Seminole County Orlando, FL (June 15, 2020) – The construction fencing was the first clue that something big is happening at Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital. Now, the fencing has come down to reveal a new cardiac catheterization lab that places South Seminole Hospital among the best in the area for patients seeking top-notch cardiovascular services near their home, along with a new lobby welcoming patients and guests. With the new state-of-the-art
Cutting Edge Signs and Visuals Equips Businesses and Citizens with PPE As the State Continues to Open
The Company Offers Masks, Hand Sanitizers, Sneeze Guards, Social Distancing Signs and Floor Decals to Help Workers Fight the Epidemic. Florida, USA, June, 2020 -- Covid-19 is waging war on social norms and behaviors. It seems difficult to interact with others in markets, offices, theatres, malls and playgrounds. Social distancing is a guideline universally acknowledged by experts. Man, being a social animal, can hardly avoid visiting markets, offices and playgrounds. Cutting Edge Signs and Visuals is a
Talking to Kids About Injustice and Anxiety
As a parent, it can be hard to know what to say to your kids about the civic unrest and protests sweeping our nation. Like many adults today, I never had conversations about police brutality or discrimination with my own parents. But as a biracial woman, as the wife of a black man and the mother of a black child, I need to equip my four-year-old daughter with the information she needs to be safe. I do so with the knowledge that, even if I raise her to be a model citizen, she will face injustice,
Goodwill To Host Job Networking Webinar On June 26
Free Session Will Help Build Connections and Professional Relationships WHAT: On Fri., June 26, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida will help job seekers learn virtually how to use networking to find their next job. The nonprofit’s free informational webinar will teach viewers how to connect professionally and build relationships to help land the job they want. Interested participants can register by visiting https://bit.ly/3hkVPvr. With unemployment remaining at record highs,
Florida Blue triples COVID-19 community investments to over $7 million
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 12, 2020) – Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, announced today it is more than tripling its COVID-19 community investments to over $7 million. In March, the insurer provided an initial $2 million to organizations across the state to address urgent health and safety needs. Florida Blue will invest an additional $2.5 million to provide access to testing and health care, food security and other essential needs for Floridians. Additionally, the insurer plans to contribute more
Florida Blue lowers bills to 22,000 Florida businesses
Florida Blue is helping Florida businesses continue to provide health insurance to more than 600,000 employees by reducing the amount businessowners pay. The July invoices sent out this month to approximately 22,000 Florida-based companies will reflect a 15% reduction in health insurance premiums for the month as well as a 50% reduction in dental plan costs for July. The insurer is also providing businesses with free virtual doctor’s visits through Teladoc as well as waiving costs for virtual behavior
Chamber Members Save 50%
Special benefit for Seminole Chamber members Seminole County, Fla. — June 10, 2020 – Today’s marketing is continually evolving, and it’s tough to stay ahead of the curve. If marketing is not something you do every day, you need a helping hand to get maximum results out of your time and money. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, recently launched “Marketing Made Easy,” a live, online, weekly class combined with a website containing archives of calls and resources. Membership in the
MLS is Back Tournament | Starts July 8th in Orlando
MLS today announced the league’s plan to restart the 2020 season with all 26 MLS clubs competing in the MLS is Back Tournament. Housed in The City Beautiful, the tournament will take place at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort in neighboring Lake Buena Vista beginning July 8. For the MLS is Back Tournament, teams will be drawn into one of six groups during a live draw that will take place tomorrow, Thursday, June 11 at 3:30 p.m. EDT. As the host club, Orlando City SC will be
Pam Hargis Receives the FocalPoint International Inc. 2019 Kaizen Award
SANFORD, Fla. - June 10, 2020 - PRLog -- During its 2020 Annual Conference, FocalPoint Business Coaching awarded its annual Kaizen Award to Pam Hargis, a FocalPoint Business Coach based in the Florida area. Kaizen is the Japanese word for constant and never-ending improvement. The Business Coach who wins this award has shown personal tenacity and discipline by consistently working on their knowledge and skills. "Pam has worked diligently to establish herself in her community and add value to every
Recovered by Oils announces new product!
June 9 2020 Recovered by Oils Announces new ProductOviedo— June 9 2020— Today at the Seminole County Chamber Zoom Meeting, Recovered by Oils announced immediate availability of Healy, a Frequency Specific Microcurrent device, and brand new to the US. “Bioenergetic medicine has been widely used for decades in Europe. Electromedicine is truly the wave of the future,” said Laurie Harrington, manager at Recovered by Oils. Innovative TechnologyHealy is a frequency specific microcurrent medical device
Limited Time Left for Youth to Apply to Earn $1,000 and Discover College, Career Pathways
Orlando, Fla., – CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) is calling on youth, ages 15-19, to now apply to join the Explore and Accelerate tracks for its 2020 Summer Youth Program starting July 6, 2020. Explore helps youth demystify college as CSCF partners with local state and technical colleges to help prospective students explore their options and make an informed choice. With the ability to gain industry experience, build a marketable resume and begin their job search, Accelerate provides youth the power
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Feel So Good at SoFLo
Breathe, Flow, Let Go at SoFLo’s Opening Weekend Lake Mary, Fla (June 10, 2020)—SoFLo Hot Yoga will open its doors to the public for the first time at 8:00 am Saturday, June 13, 2020, in the Crystal Lake Business Center at 187 E. Crystal Lake Ave., Lake Mary, Fla. Given the COVID pandemic, the studio is needed now more than ever since yoga has been proven to improve immune systems and decrease inflammation. Psychological stress can impact many systems in the body, including weakening the immune system
2020 Dream Cup Challenge Golf Tournament Raises Over $44k For Scholarships
SANFORD, Fla. (June 10, 2020) - This year’s Dream Cup Challenge golf tournament players braved the summer heat and worked to stay safe with social distancing measures for the 37th annual tournament on June 1. Thirty-one teams participated and showed their support for programs, scholarships and other areas of need at the College, raising over $44,000. “I’m so grateful that our community and business leaders, as well as our donors, were able to attend and show their support during these unprecedented
UCF Forum: Life Lessons From Baking My Own Bread
By Emma Gisclair UCF Forum columnist No matter where I go on the internet right now—Tik Tok, Instagram, Reddit—I can’t escape it: images of delicious, fresh-baked bread. It seems like everyone is baking during stay-at-home orders. Maybe it’s merely a way to fill the time or the result of bread shortages early in the pandemic. Maybe the methodical tasks of measuring, mixing and kneading give people a sense of comfort or control or accomplishment that is sorely needed at this moment in time. All I know
Summer Internships Are A Win-Win
Elevate your business through our Summer Youth Experience. CareerSource Central Florida invites your business to partner with us and host summer interns for up to 5 weeks at no cost to you. Students participating in CareerSource Central Florida’s Summer Youth Experience track earn wages funded by CareerSource Central Florida, network with professionals and gain hands-on experience working in their field of interest. Rebuild your business and our Central Florida community, while inspiring young
Florida Blue's COVID-19 Resources and Support
Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, is taking additional actions in response to the pandemic, having already made several policy adjustments to combat the spread of COVID-19 while minimizing barriers to testing and treatment. $100 Million in health care cost relief to Florida Blue membersTo continue to support our Florida Blue members during this difficult time, we recently announced programs and policy adjustments to provide $100 million in health care cost relief including extra time to
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Duke Energy pledges $1 million in grants to support social justice and racial equity
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy, through its foundation, is pledging $1 million to nonprofit organizations committed to social justice and racial equity. Grants will be distributed across seven states where the company has electric and gas customers – North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. In a first for the company, employees of Duke Energy and subsidiary Piedmont Natural Gas will help identify opportunities and direct grants to their local communities. The
Florida Blue hiring 150 bilingual member care specialists to work from home
Are you bilingual? Do you want to work from home? Would you like to have your summers off with full pay and benefits? Florida Blue has 150 member care specialists roles currently open for bilingual candidates. These positions can work remotely anywhere in Florida and offer a teacher-like schedule where you work nine months and are off for three months during the summer with full pay and benefits. At the end of the three months, you would return for another nine-month rotation. The offer paid training,
Avon - A Beautiful You Announces
Your Local Avon Man is approaching Covid-19 very seriously. When delivering products, I will be wearing a mask and placing products at your door-step. I am asking that all customers leave payment under the front mat, pay by Zelle, or pay by Venmo. Here is Avon’s Answer to Covid-19 Avon Senses Fresh Cucumber & Melon Antibacterial Hand Gel Use it at home or keep it in tow for when you’re on the go. Germs won’t stand a chance. 2.5 fl. oz. Benefits: • Kills 99.99% of bacteria in 15 seconds •
Seminole County Fire Department Firefighter Recruit Class Graduation of 2001
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL - June 5, 2020 - The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) is pleased to announce the graduation of Firefighter Recruit Class 2001. The 17 recruits graduated today after 10 weeks of orientation training. The firefighter recruits began their career with SCFD on March 30th, 2020. Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, they were temporarily reassigned for 5 weeks to meet CDC guidelines and to assist with the pandemic response. Temporary assignments included logistics, technology, emergency
Seminole County FL - COVID-19 Update and Virtual Hurricane Expo Launches
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 8, 2020)- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management has been under a Local State of Emergency (LSE) since March 2, 2020, and continues to monitor COVID-19. There are currently 544 confirmed cases in Seminole County, 536 of which are Seminole County residents and 462 confirmed cases have been completed; there have been 12 COVID-19 deaths in the County. Updates can be found at prepareseminole.org and on the County’s social media channels. POP-UP COMMUNITY TEST SITES Seminole
Duke Energy Continues STEM Support for SCPS Students
Thank you to Duke Energy for their $35,000 grant to support critical STEM opportunities for students attending Seminole County Public Schools next year! Their support enhances a number of Foundation and district projects including: Grants for Great Ideas, which is a competitive grant program that funds teacher-led STEM, Literacy, and Art projects; the 2nd SCPS Physics Bus, which will travel to each elementary school to deliver hands-on physics lessons; and the Engineering Program at Lyman High School,
On The + Side: Mr. Rogers, Curator Chats and Free Hugs
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about resources for talking to your children about social justice, self-care tips for even the busiest among us, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Enters ?Phase 2 of Reopening
SANFORD, Fla., June 8, 2020—As part of Florida’s Phase 2 reopening of the state, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has made updates to their modified operations. Zoo operations will continue to be modified, following federal and local guidelines, to ensure the safety of Zoo visitors, annual pass holders, staff, and animals. Modifications will include limiting in-park attendance to 50% capacity, required online timed ticketing for all guests, additional barriers around certain animal habitats, and
WELBRO Transports More Than 25,000 Pounds of Fresh Produce to Local Food Pantries
WELBRO – Making a Difference The past two months have been quite an adventure for all of us. COVID-19 has affected all aspects of our lives. It has changed the way we do things but it has not changed who we are. Knowing that there were some trucks not on jobsites, WELBRO’s leadership team made the decision to utilize the vehicles to support the community. WELBRO partnered with SoSA, the Society of St. Andrew, a non-profit agency that gleans farm fields after the harvest, through the help of
Embrace Families, Inc. Applauds Congressmen Davis and Bacon for Recognizing National Foster Care Month by Helping Foster Youth Gain Independence with Driver’s Licenses
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 4, 2020) - The end of Foster Care Awareness Month brought with it a new beginning for thousands of foster children across America. Embrace Families enthusiastically supports the Foster Youth and Driving Act (H.R. 7042) recently introduced by Congressman Danny Davis (D-IL) and Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE) to promote access to driver’s licenses for foster youth. Modeled on the successful Keys to Independence, or K2I program in Florida, the Foster Youth and Driving Act would create
Fertilize With Summer Blends Through September 30
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (June 4, 2020)-- Seminole County Watershed Management advises residents to utilize “summer blend” fertilizers from June 1 to September 30, Central Florida’s rainiest months, in an effort to mitigate pollution in natural water bodies. Fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorous cannot be applied to turf during the restricted season from June 1 to September 30. Fertilizers containing iron, manganese and other "micronutrients" also referred to as "summer blends" can be applied during
Facebook Ads Generate More Visibility For New Client
Business owner benefits from greater visibility at lower cost Seminole County, Fla. — June 3, 2020 – Facebook is well known for its ability to reach new prospects for businesses. But like anything else, you have to know what you’re doing – otherwise it’s like flushing money down the toilet. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, was recently contacted by an attendee of one of his recent webinars. The business owner, who has been in business for 10 years and has a big store on Amazon,
Axiom Bank CEO Appointed To Florida Bankers Association Board
As a Member, Dan Davis Will Help Define Banking Standards in Florida ORLANDO, Fla. (June 3, 2020) – Dan Davis, president and CEO of Axiom Bank, N.A., was recently appointed to a two-year term on the Board of Directors of the Florida Bankers Association (FBA). The Board is made up of representatives from both national and community banks. As a member of the FBA Board of Directors, Davis will be responsible for setting policy and overseeing the general operation of the Association. Board members are
Florida Blue Parent Company Hiring 1,200
GuideWell, the parent company the state’s leading health insurer Florida Blue, is hiring 1,200 licensed health insurance agents in preparation for fall open enrollment. These are full-time temporary contractor positions will allow agents to work from home starting between June and September and continuing through December. The roles include a $17/hour wage as well as commissions. Candidates must have an active state health insurance sales license (the 215 or 240 license in Florida). Bilingual candidates are
Cookies for Heroes
Thank local heroes for all they do to help our community cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. ORLANDO (June 3, 2020) – With just a few weeks left in the 2020 Girl Scout Cookie Program, girls and troops across Central Florida suddenly found themselves facing an unlikely dilemma. The spread of COVID-19 had led the local council, Girl Scouts of Citrus (GSC), to cancel all Girl Scout activities until further notice – including cookie booths. It was a difficult decision, one that impacted nearly 18,000 girl and
When Your Loved One Receives a Diagnoses of Alzheimer’s Disease: 10 Tips for Family Caregivers
Are you providing care for a loved one who is liv- ing with Alzheimer’s disease or another cognitive impairment? If so, you are not alone. Today, more than five million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and 16 million family mem- bers and friends are serving as their unpaid care- givers.These caregivers share your experiences and concerns, and they are a fountain of valuable information. Here are a few things they can tell
CareerSource Central Florida Receives $20,000 Grant From Dr. Phillips Charities For Summer Youth Program
Orlando, Fla., — CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) announced that it has received a $20,000 grant from Dr. Phillips Charities for championing opportunities tied with CSCF Summer Youth Program, a workforce development program designed to fuel young adult’s career opportunities and educational growth potential. “CareerSource Central Florida is honored to receive this grant that will be very advantageous to our youth recipients. We believe this endeavor perfectly aligns with Dr. Phillips Charities’ areas
City of Debary's Continuing Professional General Engineering Services
The City of DeBary, Florida, hereby announces that it is accepting written proposals from all qualified firms or individuals interested in providing the services generally described herein and as specified in the “Scope of Services”. The successful proposer(s) must demonstrate their qualifications, experience, availability, approach and work plan which will best serve the overall needs of the City.Sealed proposals on forms prepared by the City will be received by THE CITY OF DEBARY at CITY HALL located at
VSC COVID-19 Procedural Changes for Your Safety
VSC has been and will continue to be open to clients and those that need our free and confidential services. VSC continues to provide virtual telehealth services and going forward may provide in-person services on an as-needed basis when it is safe to do so as appropriate. To make in-person visits as safe as possible we are instituting a few new procedural changes:All clients coming to VSC offices in-person must have a scheduled appointment where an advocate will explain to you what to expect when
On The + Side: Sea Turtles, Drive-In Movies and Crossover Episodes
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about free virtual relationship workshops, how to care for your houseplants, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
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Roger B. Kennedy Construction Ranks 6th Largest Among OBJ’s 2020 Top 25 Construction Companies-Local
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (June 1, 2020) - Roger B. Kennedy Construction prominently ranks 6th largest among Orlando Business Journal’s 2020 Top 25 Construction Companies/General Contractors-Local, based on 2019 revenues of $134.45 million. The Altamonte Springs-based company also currently ranks as Central Florida’s 4th largest Family-Owned Business and 27th largest among OBJ’s Golden 100 top privately-held companies in Central Florida.The Kennedy organization has been in continuous operation as a
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Orlando Health Hospitals Receive “A” Grades From Leapfrog Group
Orlando, FL (May 27, 2020) – The Leapfrog Group has released its hospital Safety Grades for the Spring 2020 rating period and three Orlando Health hospitals earned A Grades: Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital received a B and Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital received a C. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care
CareerSource Central Florida Reopens its Career Center Locations on June 3, Virtual Services Continu
May 29, 2020, Orlando, Fla., - As the government eases lockdown and the economy begins to rebound from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) is reopening its doors to customers beginning June 3 for in-person, by appointment services only, between 10 AM to Noon and 1 PM to 4 PM Monday through Friday at its Seminole County, Southeast Orange County and Lake County Career Center. The Osceola County Career Center will reopen when Valencia College opens sometime this summer, and
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Addition Financial Gives Back in LSCU Credit Unions Care Challenge
Lake Mary, Fla. (May 28, 2020) – To support small businesses and give back to local non-profits, Addition Financial recently participated in the “Credit Unions Care Challenge,” presented by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions (LSCU). Through this initiative, Addition Financial purchased lunches for its employees throughout the month of April, encouraging branches and departments to choose takeout options at locally-owned restaurants. In response, LSCU matched these funds to donate back to the credit
A Laugh a Day Keeps the COVID Away
It seems like there’s nothing to laugh about anymore. But maybe we should start. By Peter Telep UCF Forum columnist It’s easy during this global pandemic to become depressed. I’ve watched my daughter reduced to tears because she couldn’t attend her college graduation ceremony at UCF. I’ve heard from friends struggling to teach their kids at home, while other family members and friends lose their jobs. Even worse, I’ve watched news stories about critically ill patients who are denied final moments with
Seminole State Arts, Planetarium partner to present ‘Silent Sky’
SANFORD, Fla. (May 28, 2020) – The Center for Fine and Performing Arts at Seminole State College of Florida will present a live reading of the play “Silent Sky,” in partnership with the College’s Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium, June 4, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. “Silent Sky” tells the true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt. In a time of immense scientific discoveries, Leavitt and her female peers work at Harvard Observatory, but find their ideas and theories pushed aside or ignored
Emergency Small Business Grant and Antibody Testing
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (May 27, 2020)- Seminole County continues to respond to COVID-19. Two key takeaways from today’s press conference include the advent of the Emergency Small Business Grant, as well as the upcoming partnership between Seminole County and OneBlood to provide easily accessible antibody testing. Details on both as follows: EMERGENCY SMALL BUSINESS GRANT Seminole County Government announced today that small businesses impacted by COVID-19 can now apply for a one-time grant to help offset
Plans Unveiled for the Phased Reopening of Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Resort Hotels and Disney Stores
Throughout these past few months, we’ve been touched by the outpouring of support from our guests and fans around the world who’ve shared their favorite Disney memories and even replicated their favorite attractions at home. Everyone who has ever visited a Disney theme park has their own special connection to these magical worlds and the amazing cast members who bring that magic to life. Following the recent reopening of Shanghai Disney Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, we’re
Seminole County Sheriff's Office - May Dispatcher
1. Our Six Heroes - In case you missed it, earlier this month we launched a documentary program, “Our VI Heroes," which salutes our six brave deputies who’ve sacrificed their lives while wearing the SCSO badge. Two years in the making, get to know them and their families who’ve also sacrificed so much and help us to honor that sacrifice. We will never forget. 2. Lab Worker Charged - The SCSO Financial Crimes Task Force has charged a local lab worker, 36-year-old Marystely Ortiz of Sanford, with
On The + Side: Blanket Forts, Olympic Workouts and Gratitude
Addition Financial is back with another edition of On The + Side, your weekly serving of positive stories, ways to stay healthy and of course, adorable animal footage. Our goal is to shine some light in the world during a time that can sometimes feel very dark. Tune into this week’s blog to learn about virtual tours of Machu Picchu, how Olympic athletes are working out at home, and more! To read the latest edition, click here.
SCPS Graduation Plan B in Effect (July)
Due to the current and continuing social distancing guidelines, we will not be able to hold the planned June 11 High School Dances or June 12 (June 13 for Crooms) stadium graduations for the class of 2020. We are, however, still releasing our virtual graduation on or about July 1 and moving forward with our stadium graduation backup date of July 17 (July 18 for Crooms) with High School Dances on July 16th. Graduation Plan #2 *(provided social distancing rules have not been lifted by June) July 16th -
Seminole State’s Virtual Graduation Honors Spring 2020 Graduates
SANFORD, Fla. (May 21, 2020) - Though it may not have looked like how they always imagined it would, graduating students from Seminole State College of Florida had the opportunity to celebrate with family and friends through a virtual graduation on May 20, 2020. On top of their virtual graduation, qualifying Spring 2020 graduates will be invited to participate in the Fall 2020 commencement as well. More than 2,100 degrees and certificates were awarded during the ceremony with students, family and friends
Summer Tips for a Successful Transition to Middle School in the Fall
By: Carmen Malca, Middle School Math Teacher at Seminole Science Charter School After an unexpected switch to distance learning amid the ongoing pandemic, many students are more than ready to complete the 2019-2020 school year and begin their well-deserved summer break. While the fall may seem like a long way off, parents should begin considering how they can assist any children making the transition from elementary to middle school. Think back to your own middle school years and you’ll likely
IMPOWER Granted $600,000 to Provide Telehealth Services for Mental Health/Substance Abuse Treatment
LONGWOOD, Florida, May 21, 2020 – Longwood, FL-based IMPOWER, Inc. has been selected by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) to receive a $600,000 emergency grant to provide Telehealth services for individuals across the state that address mental health and substance use disorders brought on my COVID- 19.. The funding is part of a $1.9 million total award, announced Monday, May 18, by First Lady Casey DeSantis, and received by DCF from the United States Department of Health and Human
Axiom Bank, N.A. Donates $10,000 To Hunger Relief Efforts During Covid-19 Pandemic
ORLANDO, Fla. (May 22, 2020) – Axiom Bank, N.A. donated $10,000 to two nonprofits committed to fighting hunger across Central Florida and Tampa. Feeding Children Everywhere, headquartered in Longwood, and Feeding Tampa Bay were each gifted $5,000 to aid in their mission of providing meals to families in need. With the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to stagger the region, both hunger relief groups have reported increased need at levels never seen before. “As a community bank, we
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Sportzcast Graduates from UCF Business Incubator in Winter Springs
Leading sports technology company stays in the city after doubling its size during time in the Incubation program Winter Springs, Fla. (May 22, 2020) – After two years at the UCF Business Incubator in Winter Springs, Sportzcast is graduating the program. The company will remain in Winter Springs, signing a lease for office space in the same building as the incubator for its eight full-time, and one part-time, employees. “Our time at the Incubator has been very productive for our business and we truly
Tech Rage IT Releases Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Businesses
Company provides a plan that includes remote workers ahead of hurricane season Winter Springs, Fla., May 21, 2020 – Businesses in Central Florida are used to the routine of preparing for a hurricane strike after several close calls the past few years. But, are you positive you’re ready for the big storm, particularly with so many people working remotely? Tech Rage IT is here to help you. With hurricane season starting June 1, Tech Rage IT has released its Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Businesses:
Now More Than Ever We Need to be Vigilant for Symptoms of Distress
By Syretta Spears UCF Forum columnist We’ve all heard “April showers bring May flowers,” a favorite quote that reminds us that a new season is upon us and the possibilities of brighter days are just around the corner. But this year is different. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and during this unprecedented time we should all take assessment of our mental well-being and that of those close to us. Living through a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic with so many uncertainties, people may
The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program Announcement A Higher standard of Clean!
SERVPRO of North Seminole & West Volusia Counties has announced the launch of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned—a cleaning and disinfecting program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When businesses choose SERVPRO, their employees, customers, and community can rest assured that they’ve selected a “higher standard of clean”—Certified: SERVPRO
LegalShield Appoints Arnold Blinn as Chief Architect
May 19, 2020 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time ADA, Okla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LegalShield, the world’s leading provider of legal and privacy protection plans, today announced the appointment of Arnold Blinn as Chief Architect, effective immediately, reporting to Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bell. “In now our 48th year, LegalShield continues to serve more people with legal and privacy management services. Arnold brings a tremendous amount of technical and large-scale web services expertise, dedicated to meeting
Ken Countess Launches “Marketing Made Easy”
Weekly online class available for business owners Seminole County, Fla. — May 20, 2020 – It helps to have a friend in marketing. Ken Countess, managing director of The Countess Group, has launched “Marketing Made Easy,” a live, online, weekly class combined with a website containing archives of calls and resources. Membership in the class is month-to-month with no contracts. “We’ve had great demand for help with marketing,” said Countess. “During these classes, we answer questions and provide
Majority Of Goodwill Stores And All Donation Xpress Centers Now Open
ORLANDO, Fla. (May 20, 2020) – As of today, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida has reopened 90% of its retail stores and all Donation Xpress Centers across a six-county region. By the end of May, the nonprofit will have rehired approximately 800 of the 1,000 employees who were laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Goodwill’s mission is to ‘build lives that work,’ so we feel fortunate to not only reopen so many of our stores, but also to rehire so many of our employees,” said Kim Praniewicz, senior
Central Florida Business Brokerages adds new Business Broker
Altamonte Springs, Fl. – Central Florida Business Brokerage is pleased to announce that Jayne Santucci is now a Business Broker covering the Central Florida area. Jhayne received her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting in 1992 and started her career in Tax with the Big 4 CPA firms – PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and Arthur Andersen LLP in Chicago, IL. In 2006, Jhayne relocated to Central Florida to join a CPA firm specialized in International Taxation. In 2009, she joined the largest reseller and
Seminole County 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
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
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
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
New York Life and Cigna Announce the Brave of Heart Fund
NEW YORK, April 21, 2020 – New York Life today announced that it has partnered with Cigna to launch, through their foundations, the Brave of Heart Fund. The Fund will provide financial and emotional support to the families of healthcare workers and volunteers nationwide – including doctors, nurses, technicians, orderlies, cafeteria workers, custodians, and others – who lose their lives to COVID-19. The Fund is launching with initial contributions of $25 million each from the New York Life Foundation and
Seminole County 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
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
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:
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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
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
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.
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
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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
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
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
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
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
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
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: •
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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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
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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
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
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
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
“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
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
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,
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
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
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
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