“This is more than a meeting room, it’s an experience with purpose,” says Brandy Bennett, Pet Alliance Director of Development and Communications.  “Groups can use our professional space for their team building and meetings, with the added benefits of ‘cuddle time’— a proven stress reliever and morale booster—while also supporting our lifesaving mission.  The focus of Pet Alliance will always be the welfare and well-being of dogs and cats in our neighboring communities, and we are happy to have even more flexible space in our new shelter to welcome groups in to connect, collaborate, give back and de-stress with adoptable animals, and who knows, maybe even find their next furry family member.”

To learn more Pet Alliance meeting space, pricing and booking, contact bbennett@petallianceorlando.org and visit https://petallianceorlando.org/meeting-room.  Pet Alliance’s new Orlando shelter is located at 4311 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32839.  The shelter is open daily for adoptions from 12pm-6pm.  For more information on Pet Alliance and to view dogs and cats available for adoption at Pet Alliance Orlando and Sanford shelters, visit https://petallianceorlando.org/.

For photos and video of Pet Alliance meeting room, go to: Pet Alliance Media Assets.

Pet Alliance is just $176,335.00 away from reaching their $15 million fundraising goal for the new Orlando shelter and closing their Almost Home Campaign.  For naming opportunities and to make a donation, visit https://petallianceorlando.org/donate or contact development@petallianceorlando.org.   

Understanding your health care options can help you save time, lower costs, and get the right treatment faster

Florida summers aren’t just hot — they’re getting hotter. New research from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences shows the number of 91-degree days has steadily increased over the past six decades, with even more extreme heat expected in the years ahead.¹

Those longer stretches of high temperatures can take a toll on the body, increasing the risk of heat-related illness and potentially sending more people to the emergency room (ER). While the ER plays a critical role in life-threatening situations, it’s not always the best option for everyday health needs  — and it could mean a larger hit to your wallet.

In many cases, patients have other options. Estimates from the National Library of Medicine  suggest that 41 to 66% of ER visits may be preventable.² Choosing the right type of care — whether primary care, virtual care, or urgent care — can help you save time, reduce costs, and get treatment faster.

“When people understand their care options, they’re better equipped to make decisions that save time, reduce stress, and lower out-of-pocket costs,” said Jim Boyman, SVP, Care Delivery Solutions, GuideWell. “It’s not about avoiding care — it’s about choosing the setting that best matches your needs.”

The ER isn’t always the best choice

Emergency rooms are designed for serious or life-threatening conditions. For non-emergencies, care in the ER can cost significantly more than other options. Medline Plus reports that ER visits can cost two to three times more than a visit to a primary care doctor, depending on the condition and treatment.³

In addition to higher costs, ER visits often involve longer wait times and less personalized care. In Florida, patients wait an average of 156 minutes in the emergency room, according to Becker’s Hospital Review.⁴

Start with a primary care doctor

A primary care doctor is your main point of contact for health care throughout the year. They provide preventive care, treat common illnesses, and help manage chronic conditions. And your doctor may offer virtual visits or same-day appointments to help you avoid a visit to the ER.

“Seeing your doctor regularly — including scheduling an annual wellness checkup — can help detect health issues early, when they can be smaller and easier to treat,” said Dr. Thomas Graf, 
Florida Blue and parent company, GuideWell’s Vice President of Health Services and Chief Medical Officer.

Plus, many insurance plans cover an annual wellness checkup at no extra cost, making it an essential part of maintaining your health.

• They’re the best first call for: annual checkups and screenings, common illnesses and minor injuries, and managing ongoing health conditions

When to choose virtual care, urgent care, or the ER

If your doctor isn’t available, understanding your other options can help you make the right decision:

Virtual care (telehealth)

Use virtual care for convenient, fast treatment of minor conditions after hours or when your regular doctor isn’t available. Many providers offer 24/7 video visits where you can get diagnoses, treatment plans, and prescriptions without having to leave home.

• They’re best for: colds, rashes, allergies, medication refills

Urgent care

Urgent care centers are a good option for non-life-threatening issues that need prompt attention. They typically offer extended hours and walk-in availability.

• They’re best for: minor fractures, sprains, infections, cuts requiring stitches

Emergency room (ER)

The ER should be reserved for serious or life-threatening conditions only.

• It’s the best choice for: chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, head injuries, or loss of consciousness

Navigating the health care system with confidence

Many Americans are unsure about where to go for care.  A survey by The Harris Poll found that 3 in 4 U.S. adults feel their health care needs are not always met, often due to confusion about available options.⁵ To make more informed decisions:

• Know your insurance plan: Understand what services are covered and your potential out-of-pocket costs
• Choose providers in your plan’s network: Using doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies in your health plan’s network usually costs less
• If you don’t have insurance: See a primary care doctor once a year to get a baseline on your health and to have someone to turn to when you’re sick or hurt

Learn more

Understanding where to go for care is one of the best ways to take control of your health and avoid unnecessary costs.

Learn more about your options at FloridaBlue.com/KnowWhereToGo.

Sources:

1. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/2025/04/08/phew-florida-summers-are-sizzling-and-uf-ifas-research-shows-more-scorching-days-likely-in-the-next-25-years/

2. National Library of Medicine: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5945306/

3. MedlinePlus: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000593.htm

4. Becker’s Hospital Review: https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/rankings-and-ratings/ed-visit-times-by-state/

5. American Academy of Physician Associates: https://www.aapa.org/research/patient-experience

over the mall on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM for a full day dedicated to romance

books, passionate readers, and the growing bookish community in Central Florida.

The free event will bring together romance authors, readers, book lovers, and creative vendors for a

celebration of storytelling in all its forms. Guests can meet authors, discover new favorite reads, shop

unique bookish and handmade vendors, attend workshops and panels, and take part in interactive

activities throughout the day.

While romance is the heart of the festival, attendees will also find a selection of non-romance authors and

books represented, ensuring there’s something for every kind of reader.

Featured workshop speakers include authors Taylor Simonds, Diane Kann, Lara Zielinsky, and more,

with sessions designed to inspire both readers and writers alike. Topics will range from storytelling and

genre trends to writing craft and reader engagement.

Guests can also participate in a special event scavenger hunt throughout the mall for the chance to win fun

prizes during the festival.

“We wanted to create an event that feels welcoming, exciting, and community-driven for readers of all

kinds,” said Josh Gunderson, Marketing & Events Director for Oviedo Mall. “Book communities are

thriving right now, especially around romance, and it’s been incredible seeing how passionate and

supportive these readers and authors are. Summer Lovin’ is really about celebrating that energy and

giving people a fun place to connect.”

In addition to authors and panels, attendees can browse a curated vendor marketplace featuring bookish

merchandise, handmade crafts, art, accessories, themed gifts, and more.

Admission and parking for the Summer Lovin’ Book Festival are free.

For more information about upcoming events, visit: www.myoviedomall.com

ABOUT OVIEDO MALL: Oviedo Mall has been part of the Central Florida community for more than

20 years and is anchored by Dillard’s and Regal Cinemas. Oviedo Mall also includes an eclectic mix of

70 national, regional, and local retailers. Oviedo Mall opened in 1998 and is owned by IGP Business

Group. Oviedo Mall is located off Red Bug Lake Road/SR417 in Oviedo Florida. For more information

about Oviedo Mall visit our website at www.myoviedomall.com.

   Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park on SR 427 in Longwood hosted the FHSAA State Softball Championships for the second time and a trio of local teams located less than 10 miles from the complex stole the show.

   All three Seminole County-based teams that made it to the Final 4 advanced to the State Championship Game in their respective Classes and two of those teams kept the hardware at home.

   To display the dominance even more was that the two Seminole Athletic Conference entries _ Hagerty and Winter Springs _ not only won the Class 5A and Class 7A State Championships, they both did it without allowing a run in either the semifinals or finale.

   One more big note _ the Bears (24-6) went 7-0 in the Postseason (2-0 in District, 3-0 in Regions, 2-0 at State), outscoring their foes by an amazing, 71-0, in earning their second consecutive Class 5A State Championship.

   Here is a recap of the State Tournament:

Class 7A

Semifinal

Hagerty 7, Jupiter 0

   Bella Ortiz hurled a 2-hitter and the Huskies used a pair 3-run innings (the third and fourth) to pull away and earn a trip to the Championship Game.

   Ortiz helped herself, going 2-for-3, with a home run, run scored and two RBI, while Nisa Fatzinger-Rodriguez was 2-for-4 with a double and four RBI. Mattingly Klein (2-for-3, three runs scored), Alina Gallaher (2-for-4, double, RBI), Nikki Thompson (1-for-3, run) and Channing Uddin (run) also contributed.

Championship

Hagerty 4, Western 0

   Ortiz again was outstanding in the circle, allowing just two hits for the second straight game, and the Huskies plated both runs in the bottom of the sixth inning.

   The Champs made the most of just four hits, with a 2-run double from Campbell Downing driving in both runs. Klein, Thompson and Ortiz had the other hits, while Klein and Gallaher scored the runs.

   Hagerty was led by Head Coach Tom Kreahling, who was assisted by Wendi Acey-Seeman.

   Making up the roster were, Seniors: Abi Fitch, Alyssa Gutierrez, Rylee Oakleaf, Nisa Fatzinger-Rodriguez, Nikki Thompson; Juniors: Mikayla Beilenson, Addison Bell, Alina Gallaher, Tori Sambell; Sophomores: Addison Dilger, Campbell Downing, Sami Gartner, Ariana Hardman, Channing Uddin; Freshmen: Mattingly Klein, Bella Ortiz, Rylee Richards, Bri Rodammer and Emily Wilke.

Class 5A

Semifinal

Winter Springs 4, Pembroke Pines Charter 0

   Tiffany Seemann scattered three hits and the defending champion Bears used a 2-run second and a 2-run fourth to open the Final 4 with a 4-0 victory over Pembroke Pines Charter.

   Seeman helped her own cause, going 2-for-3 with an RBI, but Miranda Rinne led the way for WS, blasting a solo home run in the second inning and later scoring another run. Madison Barahona and Adison Pierce also singled in runs, while Abigail Hooper had a double and Kamylah Fermin scored the other two runs.

Championship

Winter Springs 6, Niceville 0

   For the second year in a row, Winter Springs and Niceville met in the Championship Game and for the second straight year it was the Bears coming out on top.

   And as it had done during the postseason, Winter Springs did not allow a run, rolling to the Back-to-Back titles, 6-0.

   The Bears slowly pulled away from top-seeded Niceville, scoring a run in the fourth, two in the fifth and three in the sixth to pull off the “upset.”

   Pierce led the way, going 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles, a run scored and an RBI and Hooper contributed in a big way, going 2-for-3 with a home run, two runs scored and two RBI. Lily Clark went 2-for-4 and scored two runs, Lauren Daugherty doubled in a pair of runs, Seeman and Katelyn Wassey both singled and Bubbie Mandigo scored a run.

   Seeman again started in the circle, going four innings and scattering seven hits to earn the win, while Christina Brisson came on to hurl three innings of hitless relief to earn a save.

   Winter Springs was coached by Farrah Gordon, while the roster was made up of, Seniors: Lilly Clark; Reese Fernandez; Adison Pierce; Bella Reed; Miranda Rinne; Katelyn Wassey; Juniors: Christina Brisson, Lauren Daugherty, Kamylah Fermin, Abigail Hooper, Bubbie Mandigo, Summer Mason, Tiffany Seemann, Adisyn Traughber; Sophomores: Madison Barahona; and Freshman: Emerson Wang.

Class 1A

Semifinal

The Geveva School 16, Evangelical Christian 15, 8-innings

   The Knights needed every one of their 23 hits, scoring four runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to walk Evangelical Christian, 16-15.

   TGS only has three high school aged players _ one junior, one sophomore and one freshman _ to along with 12 Middle School athletes.

   Of the 23 Knights hits, 10 went for extra bases, led by Eden Bastian (4-for-5, triple, three doubles, six RBI), Jazlyn Rodriguez (4-for-6, three runs, five RBI) and Dallas Esperas (4-for-6, triple, double, four runs, RBI). Addison Bono (3-for-3, double, three runs), Chloe Incinelli (3-for-6, triple, three runs, two RBI), Avery Bray (2-for-6, triple, two runs, two RBI), Molly Storms (2-for-4, run) and Alana Pagan-Luu (double, run, RBI) also contributed.

Championship

University Christian 4, The Geneva School 1

   Top-seeded University Christian jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning and never looked back in destine TGS, 4-1.

   The high-scoring Knights were held to four hits and a single run in the sixth inning.

   Providing the offense were Rodriguez (2-for-3, double, RBI), Esperes (1-for-3, run) and Pagan-Luu (1-for-3).

   TGS was under the guidance of Jared Incinelli, who was assisted by Randy Snodgrass.

   Making up the roster were, Juniors: Chloe Incinelli; Sophomores: Molly Storms; Freshmen: Eden Bastian; 8th-Graders: Avery Bray; Marietta Christy; Dallas Esperas; Lucy Hosman; Alana Pagan-Luu; Haly Morris; Abbigail Pramuk; Jazlyn Rodriguez; 7th-Graders: Addison Bono; Charlotte Collard; Blakely Futch; and 6th-Graders: Audrey Kim.

   Go to _ www.FHSAA.com _ and look under Sports and then Spring to look for the specific sport for more tournament information.

   Here are the results:

SOFTBALL

FHSAA State Championships

At Boombah-Soldiers Creek Park, Longwood

Class 7A

Semifinals

Tuesday, May 19

   Game 1 _ (1) Hagerty (27-4) 7, (4) Jupiter (22-4) 0.

   Game 2 _ (3) Western (24-6) 4, (2) East Ridge (27-3) 0.

Finals

Wednesday, May 20

   Game 3 _ Championship: (1) Hagerty (28-4) 2, (3) Western (24-7) 0.

Class 5A

Semifinals

Friday, May 22

   Game 1 _ (1) Niceville (24-7) 2, (4) Braden River (23-4) 1.

   Game 2 _ (2) Winter Springs (23-6) 4, (3) Pembroke Pines Charter (21-9) 0.

Finals

Saturday, May 23

   Game 3 _ Championship: (2) Winter Springs (24-6) 6, (1) Niceville (24-8) 0.

Class 1A

Semifinals

Tuesday, May 19

   Game 1 _ (1) University Christian (20-4) 12, (4) Schoolhouse Prep (16-12) 2, 5-innings.

   Game 2 _ (2) The Geneva School (16-4) 16, (3) Evangelical Christian (16-9) 15, 8-innings.

Finals

Wednesday, May 20

   Game 3 _ Championship: (1) University Christian (21-4) 4, (2) The Geneva School (16-5) 1.

   In addition, Ryan Ackerson of Seminole and Michael Goldenberg of St. Thomas Aquinas were named winners of the Girls’ and Boys’ Water Polo Coach of the Year awards.

   Swain helped her team to the state championship with 121 goals while adding 87 assists and 40 steals. The senior attack finished her four-year varsity career with 341 goals, 361 assists and 203 steals.

   Fox, who was the 2025 Florida Mr. Water Polo award winner, helped his team to a spot in this year’s state Final Four with 125 goals while adding 37 assists and 63 steals. Fox has signed to play college water polo with Pacific University.

   Ackerson led his squad to a 31-0 record and its second state title in the past three years after finishing as the state runnerup in 2025. In the past three years Seminole has posted a 90-2 record with 31-0 seasons in both 2024 and 2026.

   Goldenberg led his squad to a 26-4 record and the boys’ state title. For Goldenberg,  it was hierss seventh appearance in the state championship game since 2012 with two other title-game wins (2013 and 2023).

   The Florida Dairy Farmers Sports Awards program exemplifies Florida Dairy Farmers' commitment to the state's youth. This is the 34^th year of these unique awards as we honor the state's top athletes and coaches in FHSAA sanctioned sports. The program also emphasizes to young people the importance of keeping dairy products a primary part of their diet in their overall nutrition plan.

Wednesday, June 3

   No games scheduled.

Thursday, June 4

   DeLand Suns vs. Winter Park Diamond Dawgs at Rollins College/Alfond Stadium, 6 p.m.; Orlando Snappers vs. Winter Garden Squeeze at Horizon High School, 6 p.m.; Leesburg Lightning vs. River Rats at Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, June 5

   Orlando Snappers vs. Winter Garden Squeeze at Horizon High School, 6 p.m.; Winter Park Diamond Dawgs vs. DeLand Suns, Melching Field, Conrad Park, 7 p.m.; Sanford River Rats vs. Leesburg Lightning at Buddy Lowe Field at Pat Thomas Stadium, 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 6

   DeLand Suns vs. Winter Park Diamond Dawgs at Rollins College/Alfond Stadium, 6 p.m.; Orlando Snappers vs. Winter Garden Squeeze at Horizon High School, 6 p.m.;  Sanford River Rats vs. Leesburg Lightning at Buddy Lowe Field at Pat Thomas Stadium, 7 p.m.

Sunday, June 7

   No games scheduled.

Monday, June 8

   Sanford River Rats vs. Winter Park Diamond Dawgs at Rollins College/Alfond Stadium, 6 p.m.; Leesburg Lightning vs. Winter Garden Squeeze at Horizon High School, 6 p.m.; DeLand Suns vs. Orlando Snappers at The First Academy-Orlando, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, June 9

   Winter Park Diamond Dawgs vs. Winter Garden Squeeze at Horizon High School, 6 p.m.; Sanford River Rats vs. DeLand Suns, Melching Field at Conrad Park, 7 p.m.; Orlando Snappers vs. Leesburg Lightning at Buddy Lowe Field at Pat Thomas Stadium, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, June 10

   No games scheduled.

In other FCSL News:

   * Games streamed LIVE on Varsity Sports Nation PPV _ All Florida League games will once again be streamed live and archived for replays on Varsity Sports Nation PPV this season. For information about how to access this content go to _ https://varsitysportsnationppv.lightcast.com/.

   Go to _ www.floridaleague.com _ for more information.

   The weekly Rum Race on May 20 saw John Chamberlin guide NacraNA to a big win, claiming both the overall race and Multihull Boat wins by over 4-minutes over Rich Gailey and Wicklow Way (the Displacement Boat winner) and Ray Laguna on Sheet Show. Shame, with Tony Porterfield at the helm, was the Planing Boat winner.

   Wednesday, May 27, was supposed to be headlined by the Ladies on the Lake Championship Series May race, but it was Laguna directing Sheet Show to the overall victory ahead of three female piloted vessels _ Diane Forrest on Show Me, Patti Miller on Fleur de Mer III and  Ana Holstein on Black Jack. Trinity C on Last Call was the fourth lady sailor and she came home in sixth.

   There was great wind with tight racing and afterward a few did a little shrimping!

   The evening was just a whole lot of fun all around. Congratulations to the winners!!

   Here are the results:

Breezeway Rum Race

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

   1. (Multihull 1) NacraNA (John Chamberlin), 0:44:58.

   2. (Displacement 1) Wicklow Way (Rich Gailey), 0:49:22 (minus-0:04:14).

   3. (Displacement 2) Sheet Show (Ray Laguna), 0:50:48 (-0:05:37).

   4. (Displacement 3) Fleur de Mer III (Olivier Fleury), 0:54:39 (-0:09:10).

   5. (Displacement 4) Black Jack Bill (Bill Holstein), 0:55:21 (-0:09:50).

   6. (Planing 1) Shamu (Tony Porterfield), 0:55:50 (-0:09:45).

   7. (Displacement 5) Shajaira (Bob Fellingham), 1:00:00 (-0:13:38).

   8. (Displacement 6) Ladyhawke (Matt Sherren), 1:00:29 (-0:14:05).

   9. (Displacement 7) Last Call (Trinity C), 1:04:56 (-0:17:59).

   10. (Displacement 8) Show Me (Andy Forrest), Did Not Finish.

Breezeway Rum Race

Wednesday, May 27, 2026

   1. (Displacement 1) Sheet Show (Ray Laguna), 0:59:28.

   2. (Displacement 2) Show Me (Diane Forrest), 1:00:20 (minus-0:00:50).

   3. (Displacement 3) Fleur de Mer III (Patti Miller), 1:00:35 (-0:01:03).

   4. (Displacement 4) Black Jack (Ana Holstein), 1:02:17 (-0:02:40).

   5. (Planing 1) Bad JuJu (Jim White), 1:02:57 (-0:03:02).

   6. (Displacement 5) Last Call (Trinity C), 1:08:50 (-0:08:26).

   7. (Displacement 6) Shajaira (Bob Fellingham), 1:09:08 (-0:08:45).

   8. (Displacement 7) Castaway (Richard McFadyen), 1:09:21 (-0:09:02).

   9. (Displacement 8) Ladyhawke (Matt Sherren), Did Not Finish.

Ladies on the Lake Championship Series Rum Race

Wednesday, May 27, 2026

   1. (Displacement 1) Show Me (Diane Forrest), 1:00:20.

   2. (Displacement 2) Fleur de Mer III (Patti Miller), 1:00:35 (minus-0:0:15).

   3. (Displacement 3) Black Jack (Ana Holstein), 1:02:17 (-0:01:57).

   4. (Displacement 4) Last Call (Trinity C), 1:08:50 (-0:08:30).

   Upcoming:

   Today (June 3), 10, 17, 24 (Ladies on the Lake Championship Series) _ Breezeway Rum Racing. Anyone with a Portsmouth rated boat is welcome to attend the Rum Race, with cocktails, dinner and scores at The Breezeway afterwards.

   If you are looking to crew, be down at the ramp by 5:30 p.m. If you are sailing, the starting window will be between 6 p.m.-and-6:05 p.m.

   Saturday, June 13 _ LMSA Club Championship Series for the Hayden Cup, Skippers Meeting set for 4 p.m.

   Sunday, June 28 _ Sine Metu Jameson Irish Whiskey Race.

   For more information, visit _ www.flalmsa.org _ or call (321) 578-8364.

   UCF men’s basketball head coach Johnny Dawkins has agreed to a three-year contract extension that will keep him with the Knights through the 2029-30 season, Vice President and Director of Athletics Terry Mohajir announced Monday.

   “I want to thank President Alexander N. Cartwright and Vice President and Director of Athletics Terry Mohajir for their continued belief in our vision for UCF men’s basketball," said head coach Johnny Dawkins. "What we accomplished this season was a testament to the hard work of our student-athletes, coaches and staff as we continue establishing ourselves in the Big 12. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made and excited about where this program is headed. UCF has become home for my family, and I’m committed to continuing to build a program that our university and fans can be proud of.”

   This past season, Dawkins led the Knights to the NCAA Tournament, marking just the second at-large berth in program history. UCF opened the 2025-26 season with a 12-1 start, the best under Dawkins. The Knights continued their success by finishing Big 12 play with a 9-9 record, the program’s best conference mark since joining the league ahead of the 2023-24 season. The Black and Gold finished the year 21-12 overall, marking the second consecutive 20-win season under Dawkins.

   “Johnny has led our men’s basketball program with outstanding poise and class, said Vice President and Director of Athletics Terry Mohajir. "The stability and continuity he has provided have been, in my opinion, a major reason for the program’s growth. As a result, we’re excited to extend his contract. He is a strong leader and an outstanding role model for our young men. Johnny is highly deserving of this extension, and we’re excited about the future of UCF men’s basketball under his leadership.

   The 2025-26 campaign was one for the record books as the Knights averaged 80.7 points per game, the highest scoring average under Dawkins and the most by a Knights team in the Division I era. An 11-game winning streak, spanning from Florida A&M on Nov. 11 through Oklahoma State on Jan. 6, marked the longest winning streak of the Dawkins era and the program’s longest since the 2010-11 season.

   The Black and Gold also tied a program record with three Top 25 wins, defeating No. 17 Kansas, No. 11 Texas Tech and No. 19 BYU. Those victories brought Dawkins’ career total at UCF to 12 wins over ranked opponents.

   Those victories helped the Knights earn a No. 10 seed in the Big Dance where they faced No. 7 seed UCLA in Philadelphia, a narrow 75-71 loss to the Bruins. The NCAA Tournament berth was made even more impressive considering the unprecedented roster overhaul the Knights navigated entering the season. UCF was one of only two teams in the country, alongside Miami, to reach the NCAA Tournament without returning any scoring production from the previous year’s roster.

HIGH SCHOOL SPRING FOOTBALL

   Here are the results for the 2026 high school spring football games:

Thursday, May 14

At Oviedo

   Oviedo 35, Ocoee 8.

At The Master’s Academy

   The Geneva School 10, Faith Christian 6.

   The Geneva School 9, Trinity Prep 0.

   The Geneva School 7, The Master’s Academy 7.

   Trinity Prep 7, The Master’s Academy 6.

   Faith Christian 14, Trinity Prep 8.

   Faith Christian 14, The Master’s Academy 7.

Friday, May 15

At Lake Howell

   Bishop Moore 21, The Villages 14.

   Lake Howell 21, The Villages 21.

   Bishop Moore 26, Lake Howell 13.

At Palmetto

   Palmetto 38, Hagerty 7.

Wednesday, May 20

   Lake Mary 24, Jones 24.

   Lake Wales 48, Lake Brantley 35.

Thursday, May 21

   Orangewood Christian 28, Bishop John Snyder 13.

   Edgewater 35, Seminole 7.

Friday, May 22

   Mount Dora Christian 14, Lyman 0.

   Winter Springs 14, Orange City University 14.

ORLANDO SPEEDWORLD

   Coming up at Orlando Speed World Dragway:

   * Full Throttle Friday _ “All Welcome Test and Tune and Grudge Racing” with gates opening at 6 p.m. and racing from 6 p.m.-to-10:30 p.m. $20 General Admission or $30 to race. Kids 10-and-Under free.

   * Saturday and Sunday _ “The KING of Event (Imports)” with gates opening at 10 a.m. and racing from 10:30 a.m.-to-5 p.m.

   The Dragway information Hotline is at (407) 568-5522 and the website is at _ www.raceosw.com/dragway/.

   SpeedWorld is located 17 miles east of Orlando in Bithlo at 19164 East Colonial Drive, between Orlando and Titusville on Highway 50 at the 520 Cocoa Cutoff.

SANFORD ADULT SOFTBALL

   Here is the schedule for this week in the City of Sanford Parks and Recreation Department Adult Softball Spring League.

      The Semi-Co-Ed/Fun League on Wednesday has The West End Trading Company vs. Parkway Punishers at 6:30 p.m. and Throwbacks vs. Longhorns at 7:30 p.m. Pat's Liquor, FedUp and Bucks will have the Bye.

   Everyone is invited to watch the games for free at Pinehurst Park on West 24th Street.

   For more information contact Dominic Pascuzzo, City of Sanford Recreation Supervisor, at the City of Sanford Parks and Recreation Department at 407-688-5120, extension 5004; Fax _ 407-688-5121; facebook.com/SanfordFLCityGovt; instagram.com/cityofsanfordfl; visit the city website _ www.sanfordfl.gov _ or email: dominic.pascuzzo@sanfordfl.gov.

UCF FOOTBALL

   UCF football, the Big 12 Conference and its TV partners have announced game times and networks for the first three weeks of the 2026 college football season, along with additional weeknight games.

   Five of the Knights’ 2026 contests, including four at home, had kickoff times and networks announced in Wednesday afternoon’s release.

   The 10th edition of the Space Game will air on ESPN as the Knights, better known as the Citronauts for the annual mission, host Baylor on Friday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m.

   The home slate wraps up on Friday, Nov. 20 with a 6 p.m. kickoff against Iowa State on FS1 for Senior Knight. It will be the Cyclones’ first visit to Acrisure Bounce House. Iowa State has been to Orlando once before, earning a 42-41 victory over then-No. 15 Miami in the 2024 Pop-Tarts Bowl.

   UCF’s non-conference road game at Pittsburgh on Saturday, Sept. 12 will air nationally on ESPN2 at 3:30 p.m. from Acrisure Stadium, which doubles as the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. It will mark the first time since 2023 the Black and Gold suit up inside an NFL stadium.

   The Knights’ two non-conference home games against Bethune-Cookman on Thursday, Sept. 3 and Georgia State on Saturday, Sept. 19 will both kick off at 7 p.m. on ESPN+.
 

UCF SOFTBALL

   After helping lead her squad to the most prolific offensive season in program history, junior second baseman Sierra Humphreys, already duly-recognized for her efforts this season, has now brought to Orlando an honor accomplished just once before by a Knight.

   Humphreys, an All-Big 12 First Team and NFCA All-Region First Team selection in 2026, has now become the second player in program history to earn NFCA All-America recognition, as announced by the organization Wednesday evening.

   The Corona, California, native was added to the NFCA’s All-America Third Team, cementing her place in program lore alongside UCF Hall-of-Famer Shelby Turnier, who earned NFCA All-America First Team status in 2015.

   Humphreys, in just her first year as an everyday second baseman after spending her first two collegiate seasons at third base, enjoyed the strongest year of her standout UCF tenure thus far, starting each of the Knights’ 61 games as the Black and Gold marched toward the second NCAA Super Regional berth in program history.

   She set single-season career bests in average (.379), on-base percentage (.454), slugging percentage (.712), runs scored (48), total hits (67), doubles (15), home runs (14), total bases (126) and RBI (57), and matched her previous season best in walks (26).

   Among the program’s all-time single-season leaderboards, Humphreys this year ranked fourth in RBI, fourth in double plays turned, fifth in average, fifth in slugging percentage, sixth in total bases, seventh in on-base percentage, seventh in runs scored, seventh in home runs, and tied for ninth in doubles.

   She also enters her senior season next spring representing the program’s second-leading hitter by average all-time, as her career .359 batting average trails only Knights Hall-of-Famer Stephanie Best’s .384 mark, and she also ranks among career program leaders in on-base percentage (3rd, .431), slugging percentage (.4th, .582), double plays turned (7th, 35), assists (9th, 311), and home runs (10th, 21).

   She finished her season ranking among Big 12 Conference leaders in defensive assists (5th, 124), total bases (7th, 126), doubles (8th, 15), RBI (9th, 57), slugging percentage (13th, .712), total hits (14th, 67), and home runs (15th, 14).

ORLANDO CITY

   Orlando City SC (4-9-2, 14 points) dropped a 6-2 result to FC Cincinnati (5-5-5, 20 points) on Saturday night at TQL Stadium in its final match before the MLS season pauses for the FIFA World Cup2026™.

   Goal Highlights:

   * 16’ - Martín Ojeda (Penalty Kick) – ORL 1, CIN 0.

   * 42’ - Kenji Mboma Dem (Evander) – ORL 1, CIN 1.

   * 45+3’ - Evander (Pavel Bucha) – CIN 2, ORL 1.

   * 48’ - Martín Ojeda – ORL 2, CIN 2.

   * 52’ - Kenji Mboma Dem (Evander, Kévin Denkey) – CIN 3, ORL 2.

   * 58’ - Evander (Matt Miazga, Obinna Nwobodo) – CIN 4, ORL 2.

   * 77’ - Kevin Denkey (Evander, Bryan Ramírez) – CIN 5, ORL 2.

   * 90+1’ - Tom Barlow (Ender Echenique, Pavel Bucha) – CIN 6, ORL 2.

   Next Match:

   Orlando City will now enter a two-month break as MLS pauses its season for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, with the Club’s next match taking place on July 22 against the San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park. Kickoff from PayPal Park is set for 10:30 p.m. on Apple TV. The Lions will next be home on July 25 against Nashville SC.

   For more information on Orlando City SC, visit OrlandoCitySC.com or follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

ORLANDO PRIDE

   Nicole Payne scored her first career goal as the Orlando Pride (4-5-2, 14 points) defeated San Diego Wave FC (7-4-1, 22 points) on Sunday (May 24) evening at Snapdragon Stadium.

   Scoring Summary:

   * 45+3’ - Nicole Payne – ORL 1, SD 0.

   The Orlando Pride (5-5-2, 17 points) defeated Bay FC (3-6-2, 10 points) 3-1 on Friday night in their final match before the NWSL pauses while the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup is staged across North America. Orlando remains unbeaten against Bay FC all time, now holding a 4-0-1 record against the 2024 expansion side.

   Goal Highlights:

   * 4’ - Barbra Banda (Luana) – ORL 1, BAY 0.

   * 7’ - Caroline Conti – ORL 1, BAY 1.

   * 51’ - Barbra Banda (Summer Yates) – ORL 2, BAY 1.

   * 55’ - Cori Dyke (Barbra Banda) – ORL 3, BAY 1.

   Next Match:

   The Pride will now enter a month-long break as the NWSL pauses its season for the Men’s FIFA World Cup 2026™. Following the June international break, the Pride will travel to California to face Angel City FC on July 3 at BMO Stadium at 10 p.m. on Prime Video.

The End is Near

Putin is finished, if he lasts more than two months more, it will be a miracle. What he has done to the former Russian Empire is tragic.

The old add-ons, the Stans, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan were all part of the Soviet Union. They were cemented to Russia by a minority of that country in their population. The Russians were the ones that had the guns.

Now, they are pulling away, the Russian minorities are going home. The Stans true love is Turkey! Some are getting rid of the Cyrillic Alphabet and going back to the Latin Alphabet. They are establishing a new route for their oil and mineral resources to get to the West without going through Russia. It goes across the Caspian Sea to Azerbaijan then through pipelines to Turkey. Russia is not involved. The Azeris did not like it when Russia shot down one of their airliners and Putin initially would not acknowledge Russia's guilt.

Ukraine now has one of the most powerful and dangerous armies in the world because of their leap ahead in drone technology. They have fought Russia to a standstill, they are destroying Russian trains and trucks before their supplies of ammunition, food and medical needs can get to the front lines. Crimea is basically cut off because it can't be resupplied. They are destroying the oil refineries, the plants that make the rockets and drones that Russia has been raining down on Kiev, and other strategic targets important to the Russian war effort.

It looks like Russia will have to give up within the next month or so as its soldiers surrender or starve.

This will cause a problem for the United States of America. We cannot afford a Russian collapse. China and Japan covet the Russian far east. Eastern Siberia only has a population of about ten million but lots of oil. We want it. We have been there before. At the end of World War I, we had troops in Siberia from 1918 to 1920. 

Russian Intervention, 1918-20. Hospital Car operated by the American Expeditionary Forces at Khabarovsk, north of Vladivostok. American Red Cross Collection.

Contributed

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is expanding its efforts to address a root cause of hunger with the launch of Career Pathways, an enhanced workforce training program designed to better prepare and connect more job seekers with in-demand careers, reducing the number of people who need food assistance.

Building on the success of its long-running Culinary Training Program, Career Pathways introduces a second professional track focused on customer service – broadening access to employment opportunities across multiple industries. Since launching in 2013, the Culinary Training Program has helped more than 535 adults develop the skills needed for careers in food service, creating financial stability and economic mobility.

The newly structured program prepares participants for employment through skills training, career readiness support, and direct connections with local employers. Each cohort includes foundational workplace skills such as time management, teamwork and communication, financial literacy and conflict resolution. The culinary track will continue to offer hands-on, specialized training in a commercial kitchen.

“Career Pathways reflects how we’re evolving to meet both our neighbors’ needs and the realities of today’s shifting job market,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest. “Not every job seeker is pursuing a career in culinary, but everyone deserves access to meaningful work. By expanding beyond a single industry, we can meet people where they are and connect more individuals to quality employment opportunities while helping them build the skills and confidence needed for long-term stability.”

Applications for Career Pathways are now open; the first customer service cohort begins on July 7. The next culinary cohort begins on August 3. For more information or to apply, visit FeedHopeNow.org/CareerPathways.

Contributed

The Seminole County Fire Department and the Sanford Fire Department recently presented Lake Mary High School junior Lincoln Sharpe with a Citizen’s Award and Honorary Firefighter badge for his quick thinking in getting his family out of their home fire.

On the evening of Thursday, February 12, 2026, a call was received at 11:27 p.m. on Long Pond Drive in Longwood, FL reporting of flames on a screened-in porch patio.

16-year-old Lincoln Sharpe’s room was right by the pool patio. The other five bedrooms were on the complete other side of the house. Lincoln saw a flicker of light that looked like a spark or something electrical and immediately looked out his window and saw the danger.  He quickly helped get all of his eight family members out of the house by pounding on each door and yelling, “fire.” The dogs also made it out safe. Lincoln lived in the home for all of his life with his family for the past two decades.

Within four minutes, fire units were on scene fighting the fully engulfed fire that was spreading rapidly. Unfortunately, the home was not salvageable, but a crew from the Sanford Fire Department helped recover some sentimental family valuables (e.g., mother’s wedding ring, teddy bear, military flag and an urn).

“As we all know, property can be rebuilt, but our number one priority is saving lives,” said Battalion Chief Chris Baker of the Seminole County Fire Department. “We are so glad that everyone is safe thanks to Lincoln’s help, but understand your sense of security is shaken and the disruption the fire it has caused in your life. We are here to honor Lincoln for his bravery in helping get all his family members quickly out of the house and safe.”

In addition, Lincoln expressed interest in becoming a firefighter in the future as he has relatives in the fire service.

By Lesley Keays

Herald Columnist

Entrepreneurs Anonymous is a free, monthly meetup for budding and current small business owners who may benefit from a physical space to talk shop without pitch decks or performative networking.

Facilitated by Christina Hollerbach at her new office, 112 Sanford Avenue is now a place where attendees are encouraged to vent, to obtain feedback, to ask for help, and most importantly, to remind oneself that while sole entrepreneurship can be a lonely vocation, no person with adequate support is alone.

Each gathering, attended by approximately 10 business owners, is lightly mediated and shaped by the needs of the room, with time for open conversation and a short leadership takeaway to help attendees think differently about the work they complete.

Whether attendees are exploring an idea, newly launched in a field, or preoccupied in the day-to-day tasks of running a business, all are welcome. Snacks and beverages are provided. 

“In our personal lives, sometimes it’s a challenge to talk business with our partner, family members, or friends,” Hollerbach notes.

“The goal of Entrepreneurs Anonymous is different from traditional networking events, and intentionally so,” she states. “This effort is not simply pitching businesses or collecting contacts. It is about creating a place where entrepreneurs show up without ego, listen as much as they speak, and talk honestly about both what is working and what is lagging in their respective businesses.” 

During its first few meetings, Entrepreneurs Anonymous shared recent wins and current challenges. Hollerbach used a whiteboard to capture common themes that entrepreneurs experience in real-time. “It was fascinating to see how many struggles overlap across completely different industries,” Hollerbach observed. 

She shared a simple visual about knowledge that helped frame the discussion. “Imagine a pie chart that represents all the knowledge in the world,” Hollerbach suggested. “Each of us holds only a tiny sliver of the pie through our own experiences. Even the collective knowledge of the people in a room is still only a small portion of the total pie. However, when we share openly and learn from each other’s successes and mistakes, we expand the knowledge each of us take away. That exchange of experience makes us stronger as business owners and effective contributors to our community. “

The group name “Entrepreneurs Anonymous” was chosen intentionally as well. The goal is to remove the pressure of posturing or self-promotion; instead, creating a safe environment where business owners speak candidly about challenges, ask critical questions, and support one another.

Based on the strong response and enthusiasm from attendees, Ms. Hollerbach will continue to host Entrepreneurs Anonymous meetings on the first Wednesday of every month, in an effort to continue building a local community of honest conversation and shared learning among local businesses owners. 

For further information about Entrepreneurs Anonymous, feel free to email Christina Hollerbach at Christina@hwpconsult.com.

By Jeremy Gottschalk

Herald Intern

Central Florida native and marketing consultant Clayton Pritchard has recently acquired Olivine Marketing, a global B2B product marketing agency.

A Sanford native, Seminole High school alumni and UCF College of Business graduate, Pritchard now lives and works in Jacksonville Beach, an hour and a half from his Central Florida roots.

Pritchard’s family has lived in Sanford for generations. Until recently, his parents had resided in the home his grandfather built in the 1930’s. For Pritchard, his childhood interests included marching band both in high school and with the UCF Marching Knights for his college freshman year.  As a marketing major, Pritchard was part of the inaugural Blackstone Launchpad program, part of UCF’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership.

Pritchard attributes his connections through Google’s student ambassador program, networking with UCF alums and his multiple internships through the Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership with getting his “foot in the door”.

Upon graduating in 2014, Pritchard moved to San Francisco and worked ad sales for Twitter, the former name of social media platform X. He has since worked with LinkedIn, Meta and multiple tech startups.

Founded in 2016, Olivine Marketing is a business-to-business, software-as-a-service, product marketing agency specializing in positioning, messaging, product launches, sales enablement and go-to-market strategy. Olivine reports more than 60 products launched and an annual revenue of more than $2 million.

Pritchard previously worked with Olivine as a contractor and alongside co-founder Ashley Wilson at Momentum, a sales AI platform acquired by Salesforce in February 2026. After stepping into a trial leadership role in fall 2025, Pritchard's acquisition was announced on April 21.

“Olivine has an exceptional foundation - deep client trust, a strong reputation in B2B SaaS product marketing and a team of talented people who care deeply about doing excellent work,” Pritchard said. “AI is changing the landscape, but it only raises the bar for clear positioning, differentiated messaging and smart go-to-market strategy. Companies still need real expertise and strategic thinking. That’s the work Olivine has always done well, and my goal is to build on that foundation while continuing to take great care of the team and clients.”

According to the April press release, Olivine Marketing founders Ashley Wilson and Raechel Lambert have strong confidence in passing the torch to Pritchard.

“We didn’t want to hand Olivine to someone who would optimize for short-term extraction at the expense of people, quality, and culture,” said Lambert.

“When I asked Clayton, almost on a whim, if he’d want to buy Olivine, it quickly became clear that he was exactly the right person,” explained Lambert. “He crushed the trial run. The team loves him, the clients love him, and he understands the work at a very deep level.”

“Olivine meant a lot to us, and we always hoped that if we ever passed it on, it would be to someone who truly understood the work, the people, and the legacy,” said Wilson. “Clayton is sharp, calm, and leads with integrity. He’s not an outsider; he’s a practitioner who already understands what made Olivine special. I couldn’t be more excited about what he’ll build next.”

For Sanford community members, the acquisition marks a success story of a hometown graduate whose strong work ethics and connections built a career in Silicon Valley and now operates a global product marketing firm back in the Sunshine State. 

Proceeds support the Zoo’s mission through animal care, conservation work, education programs and future growth

What: The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is turning back the clock for one unforgettable night of disco fever, dancing and dazzling ‘70s style as it celebrates 50 years at its current location with the Zoodio 50 Disco Party.

Guests are invited to step into 1975 and celebrate the Zoo’s golden anniversary during this adults-only evening fundraiser filled with retro vibes, delicious food, drinks and plenty of opportunities to hit the dance floor. From bell bottoms and sequins to platform shoes and funky prints, partygoers are encouraged to come dressed in their best disco-inspired attire for a groovy night at the Zoo.

“This is more than just a party, it’s a celebration of 50 incredible years of connecting our community with wildlife and conservation,” said CEO Richard Glover. “We’re excited to invite guests to relive the spirit of 1975 while helping support the future of the Zoo.”

Space is limited. Don’t miss this once-in-50-years celebration!

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/event/zoodio-50/.

Oviedo High School to Implement Additional Safety and Security Enhancements for 2026-2027 School Year - 

As part of Seminole County Public Schools’ continued commitment to school safety and campus security, Oviedo High School will implement safety enhancements ahead of the 2026-2027 school year that you will need to be aware of.

The gate on King Street will be closed during the instructional day from 7:40 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 7:40 a.m. to 1 p.m. on early-release Wednesdays, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. This change helps to better manage campus access and reinforce perimeter security during school hours. Students, families, and visitors will continue to access the campus through the main campus entrance located on Pine Street.

These updates are designed to strengthen campus access procedures, improve visitor management, and support a safe and secure learning environment for students, staff, and visitors.

Additional information regarding traffic flow, visitor access, and campus procedures will be shared with families and the community prior to the start of the school year.

As always, we appreciate the partnership and support of the Oviedo community as these important improvements are implemented. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the Seminole County School Board.

Oviedo High School Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Regarding New Traffic Safety Measure 2026-2027

Q: Why are we making changes to parking and traffic procedures?

A: Schools must continually adapt to meet evolving safety and security needs. These updates are designed to enhance the safety of all students, staff, and visitors. By improving how vehicles enter, exit, and move throughout campus, we can better monitor traffic flow, reduce congestion, and strengthen our ability to respond efficiently during the school day. While adjustments may take time to get used to, these changes support a safer and more secure campus environment for everyone.

Q: Why is King Street closed during the school day?

A: King Street has increasingly been used as a cut-through route, with vehicles traveling at unsafe speeds near areas where students walk between the main campus and the stadium field for classes and activities. Closing King Street during school hours enhances student safety by reducing traffic volume and vehicle speeds while also limiting public access to student areas during the school day.

Q: What time is King Street closed near Oviedo High School?

A: King Street near Oviedo High School will only be closed during school hours.

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 7:40 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Wednesday: 7:40 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Q: How do I pick up my student and check them out through the front office if King Street is closed?

A: Parents and guardians should enter campus through the school’s main entrance at the intersection of Aulin Avenue and West Broadway Street. Visitor parking will be available along the car ramp near the flagpoles, adjacent to the front office. Once checked out, students will exit through the front office.

Q: Will King Street be open for night events (chorus concerts, drama productions, games, etc.)?

A: Yes. King Street will only be closed during school hours and will remain open for evening activities and events.

Q: Will King Street be open for football games?

A: No. During home football games, the gate will remain closed to support safer and more efficient traffic flow. This process was successfully implemented during the 2025 football season, with visitors utilizing Pine Street for entry and exit. The adjusted traffic pattern reduced congestion and improved safety during high-attendance events.

Q: Can I park in the parallel parking on King Street?

A: No. The parallel parking spaces are the property of Oviedo High School and will be designated for faculty and staff parking. On April 7, 1997, the City of Oviedo transferred the property extending from King Street through Aulin Avenue to the School Board in exchange for the land and facilities that now comprise Lawton House and Friendship Park. Designating these spaces for faculty and staff allows the car ramp area to remain available for visitor parking, creating greater convenience for parents, guardians, and guests.

Q: Will senior and junior parking locations change? 

A: No. Senior and junior parking assignments will remain unchanged.

Q: How will students enter the parking areas?

A: All student drivers will enter campus via Pine Street.

Q: How will students exit the parking areas?

A: All student drivers will exit campus via Pine Street.

Q: Is there a change to the senior parking gate?

A: No. The senior parking gate will continue to be locked each school day at 7:40 a.m. After that time, seniors will enter and exit the senior lot using Pine Street.

Q: What does this mean for seniors leaving campus during the school day?

 A: Seniors leaving campus during school hours will exit through Pine Street, as the senior gate will remain locked throughout the school day.

Q: Does this affect morning arrival before 7:40 a.m.?

A: No. The senior gate will remain open during morning arrival and will close at 7:40 a.m

The City of Altamonte Springs launched a landmark partnership with TSG Transportation Advisors (TSG Advisors) to establish a new Center of Excellence (COE) through the Altamonte Global Innovation Lab (AGīL). The COE will help international companies understand, navigate and achieve the policy and regulatory compliance necessary to participate in the U.S. marketplace — the only platform of its kind in Florida that combines federal procurement expertise, Buy America compliance advisory, a living government laboratory and workforce development in a single, unified resource for companies ready to compete in the American market.

 Each year, the federal government invests hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure and technology programs subject to the requirements of the Build America, Buy America Act. For companies seeking to participate in these opportunities, compliance is essential. Failure to meet federal standards can result in disqualification from projects representing billions in potential economic activity, while successful compliance provides access to one of the world’s largest and most stable procurement markets.

Until now, Florida has lacked a single organization capable of delivering the combined regulatory expertise, government engagement and operational deployment infrastructure necessary to support companies in successfully navigating these requirements. Through this strategic partnership, AGīL and TSG Advisors are establishing a new model designed to help organizations compete, comply and succeed.

"Altamonte Springs has always believed that local government can be a platform for innovation, not just a customer of it. This partnership advances that mission. Companies will gain direct access to regulatory guidance, connectivity and go-to-market support,” said Frank Martz, City Manager of Altamonte Springs. “It is not enough to say we are open for business. We are now providing the guidance, the infrastructure and the connections that give companies a genuine path to success in the American market — and in doing so, we are bringing new investment, new technologies and new jobs.”

Through this partnership, companies working with the COE will have:

• Access to TSG Advisors’ nationally recognized expertise in structuring products, partnerships and supply chains for domestic content compliance
• Direct engagement with federal, state and local procurement networks
• Small Business Administration guidance
• Go-to-market strategy and buyer introductions
• Early visibility into grants and public-private partnerships
• Connections to fundraising strategy

 Every one of these services is delivered against the backdrop of AGīL’s most powerful differentiator: its living laboratory where technologies can be deployed, tested, validated and proven in real-world government operations before a company approaches the broader market.

"The United States government invests hundreds of billions of dollars annually through programs that require domestic content compliance,” said Joe Moye, Managing Partner, TSG Advisors. “This COE turns that barrier into an advantage, allowing companies to better position themselves to thrive while also bringing new industry and jobs to the state of Florida and our Country.”

AGīL’s network encompasses every Seminole County city, two Orange County cities, Seminole County Public Schools, Seminole State College and the Orlando-Sanford International Airport, which administers one of Florida’s Foreign Trade Zones providing significant advantages for AGīL’s global innovators to bring materials, products and supply-chain to the United States.

AGīL is a regional market of governments, institutions and agencies ready to receive, test and deploy new technologies. As an AGīL advisor, the National Entrepreneur Center is part of the AGīL network to bring small business support to start-ups.

Additionally, AGīL and TSG Advisors are jointly creating workforce development programs for businesses building technology pipelines; assisting local governments to adopt emerging technologies; and providing innovators and investors with a skilled local workforce to allow them to scale. For companies entering Florida, AGīL is actively building the human infrastructure needed to sustain what they bring.

Altamonte Springs maintains a history of excellence as a completely debt-free City, holds one of the lowest property tax rates in Florida and has deployed an innovation portfolio that has drawn recognition nationally and internationally: the pureALTA water purification system, winner of the International Water Association’s global Market-Changing Water Technology Award in Tokyo, Japan; CraneRIDES, the nation’s first autonomous micromobility launched by a city; HERMAN Resources, an AI-powered HR tool; and a wastewater surveillance system the CDC recognized as a national model.

AGīL continues to be a testbed for innovation and technology solutions. The City’s partnership with TSG Advisors through AGīL helps international companies enter the U.S. market while connecting U.S. companies with new supply-chain and workforce development opportunities backed by TSG Advisors’ global expertise and Altamonte Springs’ culture of innovation.

Together, the City of Altamonte Springs and TSG Advisors share a vision that is both ambitious and grounded: To position Altamonte Springs as the destination of choice for the world’s most innovative companies — a gateway through which they can enter the United States, grow and thrive.

At Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), safety is the cornerstone of our commitment to customers and employees. It is not a matter of if, but when the next hurricane will hit our state, which is why it’s important to be proactive in planning for the six-month-long hurricane season.

 Whether you're a longtime Floridian or new to the state, having a plan in place is the best way to stay safe this storm season. Below is a list of what you can do before, during and after a storm.

What is a Hurricane Emergency Plan?

• Determine whether your home or business is located in a flood or evacuation zone and review local evacuation routes.
• Determine your backup power source or make arrangements to relocate if a storm warning is issued.
• The Division of Emergency Management recommends that drivers keep their gas tanks at least half full throughout hurricane season. Electric vehicle (EV) owners should aim to maintain a charge between 50% and 80% at all times.
• Reach out to your local emergency management office if you or anyone you know has special medical needs, in case of evacuations. Apply for our Medically Essential Service designation if someone in your home relies on electric-powered equipment.

What Should a Hurricane Emergency Kit Contain?

• Build an emergency kit with non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlights, batteries, medications, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget phone chargers, power banks, and a waterproof container for important documents.
• Don’t forget information such as include insurance policies, health cards, birth certificates, Social Security cards, a list of emergency contacts, and a recent copy of your FPL bill.

How to Prepare Your Home for a Hurricane?

• Install approved hurricane shutters over windows and doors or using alternate covering such as plywood.
• Move patio furniture and outdoor items indoors, fasten doors and windows, and cover valuables and furniture with plastic and move away from windows.
• Turn off and unplug unnecessary electronics, including pool equipment, and set your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings to keep food fresh longer during an outage.
• DO NOT attempt to trim trees or vegetation near overhead power lines yourself – only hire qualified professionals to trim trees and other vegetation near power lines. Visit FPL.com/trees for more information on our tree trimming policies.
• Look up and note the location of power lines before you begin working on a ladder. Be sure that any ladders or scaffolds are far enough away so that you – and the ends of the tools you're using – don't come within 10 feet of power lines.

 What are Important Safety Steps After a Hurricane?

• If you're planning to use a portable generator, read and follow all the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to set it up outside – not in your home or garage – and connect appliances directly to it. Do not wire your generator directly to your home’s breaker or fuse box, as the power you generate may flow back into power lines and cause injuries.
• Stay far away from and do not touch any downed power lines or flooded and debris-laden areas that may be hiding downed power lines.

How Can Floridians Stay Informed After a Storm?

• Bookmark FPL.com and save 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243) to your cell phone to report and check the status of your restoration.
• Stay informed by following your local news and @insideFPL for updates on storm conditions and heed warnings.

FPL works year-round to be ready for severe weather and urges customers to prepare by making safety a priority this storm season. For more tips, visit FPL.com/storm.

By Lesley Keays

Herald Columnist

National Water Safety Month is upon us. Both state and local groups wish to remind individuals that water safety is a critical public safety issue, especially at this time of year. 

The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole) is educating the community on drowning prevention and how to enjoy safely the state’s many lakes, rivers, beaches, and pools.  

Water safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether a parent, caregiver, neighbor, or community group member, everyone plays a role in drowning prevention. 

A few sobering statistics: 

• Last year, 112 children died by drowning in the state of Florida, with the majority of those being children under age 4.
• Young children ages 1-4 are most likely to drown in a home swimming pool.
• Children ages 5 and older are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water.

DOH-Seminole highlights the importance of following the water safety tips below: 

 - Never leave a child alone or unattended around water. Always monitor children in and around water, including bathtubs, pools, and open bodies of water.

- If a child is missing, immediately check pools and surrounding bodies of water.

- Use barriers such as fences, self-closing/self-latching gates, and secure doors with alarms to prevent children from entering bodies of water.

- Always keep a phone nearby in case of a 9-1-1 emergency.

- Avoid swimming in water with an open cut or wound. To avoid skin infection, the wound should be washed with clean, running water and soap and covered with a clean, dry, bandage.

Even the strongest swimmer can encounter risk swimming in open water vs. a pool.  Follow these tips when swimming specifically at a beach or lake: 

• Swim It: Always swim with a friend, and only swim when safety flags and signs give the all-clear to do so.
• Shore It: If you have a weakened immune system, a cut on your skin, or don’t have a person to swim with, stay on dry land.
• Dodge It: If you encounter animals that live near or in the water, stay away. Also, do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts or come into contact with waters where there are visible algal blooms, like red tide and blue-green algae.

Wasting no time to remind locals of water safety precautions, the City of Oviedo recently invited curious learners to its Riverside Park Pool for a swimming safety refresh.

Formal swimming lessons help reduce the risk of drowning, especially in children, who learn critical skills should they accidentally fall into water.  Such lessons can teach children calmly how to float, tread water, and exit a pool safely, while building their confidence in the water.

“Swimming lessons are available here from children aged six months to adults and seniors,” stated Kristen Stansell, Aquatics Supervisor at City of Oviedo. “We invited parents and kids in preparation for children starting their swimming lessons next week.”

This past April, the City’s Aquatics Team began offering swimming lessons for all ages. Additionally, Oviedo manages a Special Needs Activity Program (SNAP) with Starfish Academy Institute (SAI)-certified instructions. These lessons in particular are crucial for children with special needs who will be in the vicinity of water this summer.

The Aquatics Team, including StarGuard Elite-certified City Lifeguards, spoke candidly about the importance of teaching children how to swim. 

Bodies of water exist everywhere we go in Florida,” notes Stansell. “In Oviedo, we teach our youth not just swimming lessons, but water safety skills, in the event something unexpected happens,” she explained. 

City of Oviedo Communications Manager Lisa McDonald was available on location to field questions. Additionally, The Wesley Seth Foundation was present to discuss installing life-saving alarms on windows and doors, should an unattended child accidentally slip out of watchful sight. 

“Our theme is ‘Aquatics for All’,” declared Stansell. “Oviedo offers one-on-one swimming lessons for individuals on the spectrum. We offer lessons for low-income families. Our goal is for everyone to become trained so they can enjoy their time in the water safely and comfortably.”

In Winter Springs, the WSPD offers additional tips for staying mindful while at the pool, beach, or local waterways. Such activities are a terrific way to stay cool, however they also come with serious risks. Even brief distractions can lead to serious consequences.

1. As a Parent or Guardian, learn how to swim and ensure your children know how to swim as well.
2. Always designate a responsible “water watcher” who is actively supervising and not distracted by phones or conversations.
3. Avoid alcohol when swimming or supervising children.
4. Make sure your body of water matches your skill level. Currents and conditions can change quickly.
5. If caught in a current, remain calm. Float if needed, and swim parallel to shore until you are out of the current.
6. Do not dive into unfamiliar water.
7. Learn CPR. In an emergency, it can save a life before first responders arrive.
8. Install a barrier at least four feet high around spas and pools, including portable pools, in accordance with local safety requirements. If your home serves as one side of the barrier, install and use door or pool alarms.
9. Keep pool and spa covers in good working condition. Ensure drains have compliant safety covers to reduce the risk of entrapment.
10. Whenever possible, swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present.
11. Pay attention to posted warnings, flags, and changing weather conditions.
12. Be aware of rip currents and follow all local safety guidance.

A few simple precautions can make all the difference. Stay aware and prepared.

partnered with Summer BreakSpot to provide free, nutritionally balanced meals to children and teens during

summer break. All children, 18 years old or younger, are welcome to join us at any Summer BreakSpot location

to enjoy a free meal.

Children can receive breakfast and/or lunch. There is no application necessary. Information including

menus, ingredients, locations, dates, and service times are available on our website at Red Apple Dining - Summer

BreakSpot Menus & Map. As a reminder, meals must be eaten onsite, there is no drive thru.

“Ensuring children have access to nutritious meals during the summer break is something we take very seriously

at Seminole County Public Schools. We are so thankful for our continued partnership with Summer Breakspot

that allows us to give food security to children 18 and under regardless of whether they are SCPS students or not” said Jamie DeVivo, Director of Red Apple Dining.

What: Guests can beat the heat this summer at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens as the Zoo transitions to new summer operating hours beginning Monday, June 1.

The Zoo will now be open daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., giving guests the opportunity to enjoy cooler morning temperatures while strolling along shaded boardwalks, exploring animal habitats, botanical gardens, animal encounters and the splash pad. Guests can also cool off inside while visiting the herpetarium or experience the indoor VR attraction.

“Summer mornings at the Zoo are a great way to create memorable experiences while staying comfortable during the summer months,” said Richard Glover, CEO. “We want our guests to be able to make the most of their visit while enjoying cooler temperatures and seeing the animals during some of their most active times of the day.”

Guests are encouraged to plan ahead, stay hydrated and take advantage of the earlier hours throughout the summer season.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/.

Story time at DeBary Hall: 9:30 a.m. Friday, June 5. Children are invited to Kids Corner, a free series featuring stories, songs, and activities. The program is designed for preschoolers, but children of all ages are welcome.

National Trails Day: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 6. Celebrate National Trails Day with a morning of outdoor adventure, hands-on activities, and family fun at DeBary Hall. Discover and celebrate Florida’s trails while enjoying interactive activities, meeting local vendors, and learning new ways to explore the outdoors. Hop on the Spring-to-Spring Trail for a guided bike ride to Lake Monroe and back at 9:30 a.m. At 10:45 a.m., continue the adventure with a guided stroll through DeBary Hall’s scenic grounds to discover the native plants that make Florida’s landscapes unique. The Volusia-Flagler Transportation Planning Organization will give away free bike helmets while supplies last.

Books, Balls, and Blocks at DeBary Hall: 9 a.m. Friday, June 26. Children are invited to a morning featuring fun, free activities and developmental screenings provided by the Early Learning Coalition of Flager and Volusia. The event will also feature Kids Corner, a free story time program where children can enjoy books, sing songs, dance, and make a craft together. The program is designed for preschoolers, but children of all ages are welcome.

DeBary Hall, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is managed by Volusia County’s Parks, Recreation and Culture Division. It’s open from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at 198 Sunrise Blvd., DeBary. For more information, contact Lisa Perez at 386-668-3840 or lperez@volusia.org. 

Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

• Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts, or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom.
• Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have any contact with algae, or discolored or water that smells unpleasant.
• Keep pets and livestock away from the area to avoid any contact with water. Waters where algae blooms are present are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should use an alternative source of water when algae blooms are present.
• Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate toxins.
• Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts, and cook fish thoroughly.
• Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and partners collect algae samples from reported bloom locations. After samples are analyzed at their laboratory, the toxin results can be viewed on the Protecting Florida Together or on DEP’s Algal Bloom Dashboard.

What is Blue-Green Algae?

Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria that is common in Florida’s freshwater environments. A bloom occurs when rapid growth of algae leads to an accumulation of individual cells that discolor water and often produce floating mats that emit unpleasant odors.

Blue-green algae blooms can also appear as scum, foam, or paint on the surface of the water in various colors. To learn more about the appearance of algae blooms, visit Protecting Florida Together.

Some environmental factors that contribute to blue-green algae blooms are sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions, and excess nutrients. Blooms can appear year-round but are more frequent in summer and fall. Many types of blue-green algae can produce toxins. Blue-green algae may not always be visible as a bloom, but it can still be present in the water. 

Is Blue-Green Algae Harmful?

Blue-green algae can produce toxins, which can be harmful to human and pets as well as ecosystems, including fish and otheraquatic animals. Sensitive individuals (e.g., children, the elderly and those who are immunocompromised) may still be at risk even at low concentrations and should avoid any exposure.

For additional information on potential health effects of algae blooms, visit the Florida Department of Health’s harmful algae blooms webpage.

Where Can I Find Current Water Status Information?

Current information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications for harmful algae blooms and beach conditions is available at Protecting Florida Together.

You can subscribe to receive notifications when water quality changes in your area.

Where Can I Report Issues Related to Algae Blooms?

• Algae Blooms: DEP monitors algae blooms and collects samples for analysis. Blooms can be reported to DEP online or by calling toll-free at 1-855-305-3903.
• Human Health: Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algae bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center by calling 800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist.
• Animal Health: Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with blue-green algae contaminated water.
• Fish Kills: Dead, diseased, or abnormally behaving fish or wildlife should be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission online or at 800-636-0511.

If you have other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae, please call DOH-Volusia at 386-274-0694.

La Frances was a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, Class of 1968, where she majored in pharmacology. She dedicated more than 30 years as a licensed registered pharmacist with CVS before becoming a mortician and owner of Toston LaFran’s Funeral Home in Jacksonville.

She was also a member of the Eastern Star and the Florida Morticians Association. Known for her faith, compassion, elegance, and mentorship, she touched countless lives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Colonel Roosevelt Hestle Jr., and sisters Regina Hestle-Graham and Dorothy Hestle-Oldom. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, LaRoya Hestle; grandchildren T’Kyra, Tracy, and Zhane; siblings; nieces; nephews; and many relatives and friends.

Viewing and funeral services will be held June 5, 2026, at Hickory Avenue Church of God, 503 Hickory Avenue, Sanford, Florida 32771. Viewing: 10 to 11:45 a.m.; funeral service: 12 noon.

p.m. Professional services entrusted to Charles A. Lewis Funeral Home, with Betty L. Brown, L.F.D., in charge. Floral arrangements may be sent directly to the church.

   And it felt so good, they decided to do it again.

   It wasn’t quite as easy as last year, but the Silverhawks refused to let go of their title, using a couple of big rallies and a never say die attitude to bring the Class 2A State Championship trophy back to Seminole County again last Saturday (May 16) at the FHSAA Boys Volleyball State Championships at the Winter Haven Health Center on the campus of Polk State College in Winter Haven.

   The SAC ended up with the split for the weekend as the Lake Brantley boys dropped a rubber match with Horizon in the Class 3A State Semifinals.

   The powerful Patriots (26-4) had split a pair of regular season matches with Horizon (27-4), and while the locals were competitive, it was really all Hawks in the Thursday Semifinal as they rolled to a 3-0 sweep by the scores of 25-23, 25-18 and 25-20.

   Diego Afu led Lake Brantley with eight kills and eight digs, while John Gomez-Garcia also had eight kills and Kody Mazzoni chipped in with four kills and eight digs.

   Lake Howell (27-5) got off to a quick start in its semifinal with Archbishop McCarthy (20-9), winning the first set, 25-19, but the Mavericks turned the tables in the second set, evening the match at 1-1 with a 25-21 victory.

   The roller-coaster match went the other way again in the third set as the Silverhawks won 25-20 to take 2-1 lead in the Best-of-5 Match.

   It looked like the contest was going to go to a fifth and deciding set as Archbishop McCarthy raced out to leads of 18-8 and 22-14 before Lake Howell rallied to within 24-20, but that put the Mavericks within one point of tying up the match.

   The Hawks then really came to life, winning the next four points to even the set at 24-24.

   McCarthy would regain the lead at 25-24, but Lake Howell would win the final three points win the set, 27-25, and the match, 3-0, by the scores of 25-19, 21-25, 25-20 and 27-25.

   Jayden Rivera led the way with 13 kills, nine digs and two blocks and he got plenty of help from Xavier Borges and Julien Rogers with nine kills each and William Colon Tyson with 18 digs.

   The Championship Match with top-seeded Belen Jesuit (25-7) was not quite as exciting, as far as a decision hanging in the balance, but all three sets went to extra points with the Silverhawks winning, 3-0, by the scores of 27-25, 26-24 and 31-29.

   The third set nearly saw the Champs give one away, as they had several match point serves, but then saw the Wolverines battle back to take he lead and have a couple of set points, before Lake Howell pulled out the victory.

   Borges had a huge match with 14 kills, six digs, three service aces and two blocks, while Rivera had 10 kills, nine digs and three blocks and William Colon Tyson added 12 digs.

   Lake Howell was led by Head Coach Dr. Scott Leman, who was assisted by Henry Shehu (Tactics and Player Development) and Manny Castro (Player Development).

   The Silverhawks roster was made up of _ Seniors: Cesar Alvarado, Kason Bardsley, Shaun Bojko, Xavier Borges, Angel Jones, Kaiden Mezalon, Isaac Riedy, Jayden Rivera, Julien Rogers, Ethan Tipton; Juniors: Lucas Bodine, William Colon Tyson Alejandro Leon; Sophomores: Diego Cruz Berger and Jacob Thurston.

   Lake Brantley was under direction of Head Coach Charlie Negron and he was aided by assistant coaches Alfredo Nieves and Edwin Vega and statistician Steven Winters.

   Making up the Patriots roster were _ Seniors: Diego Afu, Amal Battiata, TJ Cullinan, Juan Dorta, John Gomes-Garcia, Antonio Dantas-Leblanc, Efrain L. Rivera Rodriguez; Juniors: Kaliel Caraballo, Charlie Colon, Tristan Horwath, Kody Mazzoni, Efrain L. Rivera Rodriguez, Noah Rogers, Armando Vancini, Michael Winters; and Sophomores: Carter Green.

   Here are the results:

BOYS VOLLEYBALL

FHSAA State Championships

At Winter Haven Health Center, Polk State College

Class 3A

Semifinals

Thursday, May 14

   Match 1 _ (3) Horizon (27-3) defeated (2) Lake Brantley (26-4), 3-0 (25-23, 25-18 and 25-20).

Class 2A

Semifinals

Friday, May 15

   Match 1 _ (2) Lake Howell (26-5) defeated (3) Archbishop McCarthy (20-9), 3-1 (25-19, 21-25, 25-20 and 27-25).

   Match 2 _ (1) Belen Jesuit (25-6) defeated (4) Gulf Breeze (21-6), 3-1 (25-23, 21-25, 25-18 and 25-22).

Finals

Saturday, May 16

   Match 3 _ Championship: (2) Lake Howell (27-5) defeated (1) Belen Jesuit (25-7), 3-0 (27-25, 26-24 and 31-29).