Detectives Arrest Suspect for Murder in Fatal Shooting
On September 18, at approximately 11:18 PM, deputies were dispatched to 497 Sun Lake Circle in unincorporated Lake Mary in response to reports of shots fired. Witnesses reported hearing male voices arguing, followed by a gunshot. Upon arrival, deputies encountered a female screaming and located a male victim, later identified as Larreon Da'Quan Cosby (DOB 8/5/1992), with a gunshot wound laying in the porch area of the apartment.The Seminole County Fire Department responded and pronounced Cosby deceased at
Seminole County Chamber Recognized Nationally for EV Charger Leadership
For the past couple of years, the Seminole County Chamber has been at the forefront of working to try and improve the EV charger network in Florida. After all, Florida has the second-highest number of electric vehicles on the road of any state in the nation. And, as businesses and governments look for ways to offer charging services, the chamber offers free EV chargers to qualified members with our partner Optimus Energy Solutions. That's why when the Florida Division of Consumer Affairs came
Seminole County Community Health Promotes Community Health Needs Survey
The Seminole County Community Health Division has partnered with the Central Florida Collaborative to launch the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment to identify health needs across the region. The survey aims to collect information from residents regarding community resources, health services, access to care, and more. This feedback will help improve the County Community Health Initiative, which aims to provide direct and immediate access to essential resources such as medical and mental health care,
SCPS Students To Receive Breakfast At No Charge At Select Locations in 2024/25 School Year
(SANFORD, Fl) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS), in partnership with the School Breakfast Program, will provide breakfast at no charge to all students for the 2024-2025 school year at the following locations: Altamonte Elementary Midway Elementary English Estates Elementary Milwee Middle Goldsboro Elementary Pine Crest Elementary Hamilton Elementary Spring Lake Elementary Idyllwilde Elementary Wicklow Elementary Lake Orienta Elementary
Seminole County Public Schools Hosts Ribbon Cutting on Newly Renovated Academy of Health Careers
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) was thrilled to officially cut the ribbon for the newly renovated Health Academy at Seminole High School, marking the completion of the first phase of an extensive, nearly $3 million renovation project. The much-anticipated improvements were made possible thanks to a legislative appropriation championed by Senator Jason Brodeur, Representative David Smith, and former Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, as well as grants and donations by generous health care partners and
Altamonte Baseball Academy Makes History with Cal Ripken World Series Championship
Altamonte Springs, Fla. (August 12, 2024) – The City of Altamonte Springs is thrilled to announce a historic achievement for the Altamonte Baseball Academy (ABA). For the first time since its inception in 2015, the ABA has claimed the 2024 Cal Ripken 11U World Series Championship.The ABA 11U All-Star team showcased exceptional talent and determination throughout their remarkable journey in securing the District, Florida State and Southeast Regional Championships. By the time they reached Florence, AL for
Seminole County Government Television to Broadcast Canvassing Board Meetings
Seminole County, FL (August 11, 2024) — Seminole County Government Television (SGTV), the County’s official government television channel, will provide live coverage of Seminole County Canvassing Board meetings leading up to the August 20 primary election. The Canvassing Board is scheduled to meet:Wednesday, August 14, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., for canvassing of mail ballotsThursday, August 15, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., for canvassing of mail ballotsFriday, August 16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., for canvassing of mail
Seminole Chamber Urges Members to Support Penny Sales Tax
In just about every metric available, Seminole County leads the state as one of the top places to work, live, learn and play. One of the reasons for this is that 30 years ago, the community decided it was important to raise needed funds for critical infrastructure and educational improvements. Over that time, the penny sales tax has brought in nearly $2 billion in revenue for the county, the school district and all seven cities. Here are just a few projects that have recently been
Chairman Jay Zembower's Letter to Seminole County Citizens
Citizens of Seminole County, As we enter another election season it is my desire to ensure transparency and integrity in the election process. As a member of the County Canvassing Board, it’s paramount to me that every vote counts, and I will be performing my duties to the best of my ability on your behalf through this election season. The election process is a cornerstone of our great country. We all must have trust and confidence in the election process. Transparency is the single most important
Seminole County Public Schools Health Services Team Unveils Innovative Training Center and Simulation Lab
Sanford, FL: Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is excited to announce the grand opening of its Health Training Center and Simulation Lab, designed to equip school nurses and clinic assistants with advanced tools and education. This facility represents a significant step forward in ensuring the highest standards of health care for our students. The new Training Center and Simulation Lab are located at the SCPS Early Learning Center, and offer a unique and immersive learning environment, providing
How Does Seminole County Compare?
Did you know that at any given time, you can find out how Seminole County is doing in a wide range of statistics that affect your business and your community? Located on the homepage of our website, you'll find a link to The Florida Scorecard. There you can find information on things like: Economic growthUnemployment levelsHigh school graduation ratesThird-grade reading levels. One of the truly unique features is the ability to compare these statistics with all 67 Florida counties in one
Seminole County Public Schools Unveils the Student Success Express
Sanford, FL: Today, Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) held a ribbon cutting for the newest addition to their fleet of service vehicles geared for student achievement. Dubbed the “Student Success Express,” this mobile registration and family resource vehicle is designed to bring essential services directly to the communities we serve. This innovative initiative will enhance our efforts to provide convenient access to educational resources, support services, and employment opportunities within SCPS. The
Seminole County Public Schools Remains A-rated District for 2023-2024
(Sanford, FL) Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) is pleased to announce that it has once again earned an “A”-rating as a district for the 2023-2024 school year as reported in the July 24, 2024, Florida Department of Education School Grades release. In addition, SCPS is ranked #1 when compared to Central Florida Districts, second when compared to the 14 largest districts in Florida, and 12th out of all Florida’s 67 Districts. SCPS continues to be an academically high-performing district and we are very
The Hob Nob Winners Are...
Last night, we held another successful Seminole Hob Nob. Since 1982, the Seminole County Chamber has held this event to allow voters and our members the opportunity to meet and interact with candidates running for office at all levels of government in our county. Hundreds of people participated in our event and our straw poll. While not an official result, it is a tremendous gauge of the issues and the contests that will shape our community and stand by our businesses for the next few
Collective Bargaining Tentative Agreement Reached Joint Statement Between SECA and NIPSCO
In the spirit of cooperation, the School Board of Seminole County and the Seminole Educational Clerical Association, Inc. and Non-Instructional Personnel of Seminole County Board of Public Instruction Association, Inc. are pleased to announce that the parties have tentatively agreed to contract language and compensation. Recurring salary increase for the 2024-2025 school year as follows: 3% increase per stepA one-time bonus for all returning employees of $500.00 to be paid on August 16th (excluding
NFPA Donates 500 Comfort Bears to Orange and Seminole County Fire Departments
Orlando, Fla. (July 8, 2024) – The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) recently hosted its 127th annual conference and expo at the Orange County Convention Center. As part of a community outreach partnership, NFPA donated 500 comfort bears to the Orange County Fire Rescue Department and the Seminole County Fire Department with the goal of supporting the local Central Florida community. NFPA officials delivered the plush stuffed animals at a joint event held at Orange County Fire Rescue
Collective Bargaining Tentative Agreement Reached Between The School Board Of Seminole County And The Seminole Education Association, Inc.
In the spirit of cooperation, the School Board of Seminole County and the Seminole Education Association, Inc. are pleased to announce that the parties have tentatively agreed to contract language and compensation. Recurring salary increase for the 2024-2025 school year as follows: Highly Effective - $2,149.80Effective - $1,253.43Grandfather - $1,679.40Beginning teacher salary increased to $50,000.00.A one-time bonus for all returning teachers of $500.00 to be paid on August 16th (excluding probationary
Seminole County Firefighter Earns Florida Hero Recognition From Governor Desantis
Firefighter Chris Martin of the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) and his wife, Christina Martin recently received an honorary Florida Heroes recognition by Governor Ron DeSantis at the second annual Florida Heroes’ Reception. This distinction is given to those who have made impactful contributions to others and have displayed exceptional courage, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity. The Martins were two of 70 recipients in Florida to receive this distinguished recognition.
Sheriff Dennis Lemma Announces the Appointment of Captain Ronald Hopper as New Undersheriff
Seminole Co. Fla., (June 19) - Sheriff Dennis Lemma is pleased to announce the appointment of Captain Ronald (Ron) Hopper as the new Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Undersheriff, effective immediately. Hopper will work closely with current Undersheriff Lou Tomeo during a transition period until Tomeo’s retirement later this year.Undersheriff Hopper brings over 31 years of extensive policing experience to his new role. His career began at the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office from 1993 to 1998,
Seminole County Public Schools Launches Inaugural Middle School Cyber Camp
Seminole County Public Schools is excited to announce the launch of its inaugural Cyber Camp for middle school students, a new initiative provided by the district’s ePathways Department under the Pathways to Careers Opportunities Grant (PCOG). The camp aims to spark interest in cybersecurity through a dynamic educational experience. This unique summer program, leveraging the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot curriculum, is tailored for students who are either new to cybersecurity or looking to
Seminole County's One Pill Can Kill Campaign Aims to Educate Residents
In recognition of Revive Awareness Day, Seminole County Community Services has partnered with local agencies to shine a spotlight on the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) One Pill Can Kill (OPCK) initiative. In April 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law “Victoria’s Law,” also known as Revive Awareness Day, to be proclaimed annually on June 6. This day is intended to raise awareness of the dangers of opioid overdose and the availability of life-saving Naloxone, a lifesaving opioid antagonist that can
Seminole County Public Schools Announce Dividends of the Year
Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) proudly announced the recipients of the 2024 Dividends of the Year in the categories of Youth, Adult, and Senior. These awards recognize exceptional volunteers who have made significant contributions to their school community. Youth Dividend of the Year: Rhys Durity, Keeth ElementaryRhys is a student at Indian Trails Middle School who sets aside time daily to volunteer at Keeth Elementary. He volunteers in the front office and helps with whatever task the
2024 ESTIMATES FOR TAXABLE VALUES ANNOUNCED BY SEMINOLE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER DAVID JOHNSON
2024 ESTIMATES FOR TAXABLE VALUES ANNOUNCED BY SEMINOLE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER DAVID JOHNSON (Sanford, Florida) Seminole County Property Appraiser David Johnson has provided the 2024 Estimate of Taxable Values to the taxing authorities for budget planning purposes. The values include real and personal property per Florida Statute 200.065(7). The estimates will be finalized prior to July 1st and submitted to the Department of Revenue for approval and taxing authorities will then receive their
Seminole County Fire Department Teaches Nearly 500 9th and 11th Grade Students at Winter Springs High School Students Hands-Only CPR
Seminole County, Fla. (May 21, 2024) – Florida House Bill 157 (approved in 2021 Legislative) requires school districts to provide basic training in first aid, including CPR for all students in 9th and 11th grades. For the second year in a row, the Seminole County Fire Department’s trained all 9th and 11th grade students at Winter Springs High School over two days in hands-only CPR – this was nearly 500 students. The initiative is through SCFD’s Save-a-Life Seminole program. Hands-only CPR has been shown
It's Time to Be Educated - Tickets on Sale Now for Seminole County State of Our Schools
As you know from being a part of the Seminole County community, the quality of our schools is a tremendous driver for economic development. When companies look to expand, move or open, one of the key things that is reviewed is the quality of the schools. And when people are hired throughout the region, they choose to live in Seminole County because of our schools. For the first time, Seminole County Chamber and Seminole County Public Schools are partnering to bring you the State of Our
‘Bring the Heat’ Classic Girls Gymnastics Competition Raises $10,000 to Support Cancer Preventative Initiatives for Firefighters
Seminole County, Fla. – January’s Meet Expectations’ ‘Bring the Heat’ Classic Girls Gymnastics Competition fundraised nearly $10,000 to help support cancer preventative initiative’s for Firefighters. The meet was in honor of fallen Orange County Fire Department Rescue’s firefighter Stephen “Shakey” VanRavenswaay, and Shakey’s daughter Brittney VanRavenswaay was part of the organizing committee for the gymnastics meet. Shakey died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 44 in 2015. 72% of Firefighter
Seminole County Announces 2024 Sports Hall of Fame Inductees
The Seminole County Sports Hall of Fame Committee is pleased to announce the induction class of 2024. These eight individuals represent a wide range of sports including basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, and youth sports refereeing. The inductees will be honored on Thursday, May 16 at Hagerty High School in Oviedo during the annual Seminole County High School Night of Champions ceremony. Attendance at the ceremony will be limited to inductees, their family members, and invited guests. Learn more
Mayor for the City of Longwood 2024-25
At the first meeting of May each year, the Commission shall elect from among its members officers of the City who shall have the title of Mayor. At the City Commission Meeting this evening, the Commission elected Matthew McMillan as the new Mayor. He will serve as the Mayor of the City of Longwood until May 2025. Please note the following changes: Matthew McMillan, Mayor Toni Boni, Commissioner
Seminole County Sheriff's Detectives Investigating Shooting Incident at Cabana Live Event Venue
Seminole County (April 29, 2024) - Seminole County Sheriff's Detectives are currently investigating a shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours on April 28 at the Cabana Live event venue, located at 4380 Carraway Pl., in unincorporated Sanford, that left multiple people injured.Deputies initially responded to the venue just after midnight to establish an area patrol due to a large crowd, estimated at around 200 individuals. The event was promoted as "No One Leaves Sober" and did not have
Seminole High Senior Selected as US Presidential Scholar Semifinalist
SANFORD, FL: Seminole County Public Schools is pleased to share that Pranav R. Eada, a graduating senior at Seminole High School has been named one of 625 semifinalists in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The semifinalists were selected from over 6,000 candidates expected to graduate from US high schools in the year 2024. lnclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 60th year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected
The Survey Says...
A few months ago, we asked you to share your opinions about the state of business conditions in Central Florida. Thank you to everyone who responded. The information compiled by Orlando Economic Partnership is impressive. Some of the key takeaways are: Local business confidence surged in the first quarter of 2024, despite declining optimism in the national economy.Strong performance across all metrics is behind the surge, driving future revenue expectations to a survey high.Cost
Seminole County Fire Department and HCA Florida Partner to Teach All Keeth Elementary Students Hands-Only CPR
Recently, the Seminole County Fire Department partnered with HCA Healthcare to teach all 550 Keeth Elementary School students (kindergarten – 5th grade) lifesaving hands-only CPR. Hands-only CPR was taught by Keeth staff, the Seminole County Fire Department and HCA Florida Healthcare. The initiative is part of “Keeth has Heart,” which includes teaching students how to live a healthy life, learning hands only CPR, and participating in the Kids Heart Challenge jump rope fundraiser to benefit the American
Seminole County Applauds as State of Florida Adds Yarborough Ranch to Florida Forever Program
Seminole County, FL (March 26, 2024) — The Seminole County Board of County Commissioners celebrated today as the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Board of Trustees approved the addition of the Yarborough Ranch property in Geneva to the Florida Forever list to be acquired by the State for conservation. This the first addition of a Seminole County property to Florida Forever. Formerly a cattle ranch, the property's 1,361 acres will serve as an important component of the Florida Wildlife
Seminole County Fire Department Partners With Pure Barre Lake Mary And Raises Money For St. Baldrick
Seminole County, Fla. (March 26, 2024) – In an effort to support the fight against childhood cancers, the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) was recently crowned the winner for the 6th straight year in a row for fundraising for the Central Florida’s St. Baldrick’s Foundation event. Seminole County Fire Department’s team raised a total of $15,0095.14 and Engineer/Paramedic John Loria raised the most individual amount with $5,796. SCFD also proudly partnered with Pure Barre Lake Mary to host a
Spring Break Camp for Seminole County Children Impacted by Hurricane Ian
Seminole County, FL (March 20, 2024) — The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management, Seminole HEART, the YMCA of Central Florida, and the American Red Cross have partnered to provide Project:Camp, a free spring break day camp to children of families impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022. The week-long camp, staffed by trained personnel from Project:Camp and the YMCA, offers critical social and emotional support and trauma-informed programming. Fifty registered campers who were impacted by flooding
Accreditation Assessment Team Invites Public Comment
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office is scheduled for an annual assessment by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®), for our Communications Center and are Law Enforcement programs as part of our review process to achieve reaccreditation by verifying we meet best practice professional standards. The annual assessments will take place between May and July 2024. CALEA® accreditation is a four-year cycle during which the agency must submit annual reports and participate in
The City Of Altamonte Springs Announces New Partnership With One.Network Harnessing The Power Of Technology And Collaboration
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (March 15, 2024) – The City of Altamonte Springs, known for its commitment to innovation and excellence, has announced a new partnership with one.network under the Altamonte Global Innovation Lab (AGīL) to enhance public safety, inform the traveling public of work being done in the right of ways, connect real-time information to vehicles and drivers and serve as a model for local government deployment of one.network’s technology. Altamonte Springs has a long history of
Seminole County Public Schools Names District Teacher of the Year
SANFORD, FL: Seminole County Public Schools proudly announces Vita Holguin, a dedicated middle school science teacher at Indian Trails Middle School, as the esteemed Teacher of the Year for her unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student success. Mrs. Holguin has a deep passion for fostering a love of science and instilling curiosity in her students while making learning engaging and fun. Holguin has become a pillar within her campus educational community, inspiring both her colleagues and
Seminole County Partners With Sanford’s Swim Life For National Pool Safety Grant To Provide Free Survival Swim Lessons To Seminole County Youth
Seminole County, FL (March 8, 2024) — Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages one to four in Florida. In an effort to combat this statistic, the Seminole County Community Health Division received a two-year Pool Safely Grant from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission totaling $194,535. Seminole County recently awarded $115,000 of the grant funds to the Swim Life swim school in Sanford to provide free survival swim lessons to Seminole County residents as well as drowning prevention
Join Us For Legislative Update
A week from today, the 2024 Florida Legislative Session is expected to end. Over the past two months, our Seminole County Legislative Delegation has passed a bunch of new laws and our state budget. Those laws will affect you personally and your business in some manner. It's important you know about them early so you can prepare. To help you, we've assembled a panel of some of the top government affairs leaders in Central Florida, those people who represent a wide range of business interests in
U.S. Navy And Seminole County Fire Department & Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Conducted Joint Training Exercise During Daytona Beach Navy Week
Seminole County, Fla. (February 19, 2024) – The United States Navy recently collaborated with the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) for a joint training exercise during Daytona Beach Navy Week. This cooperative effort aimed to foster a meaningful exchange of knowledge between active-duty Sailors and first responders, strengthening the bond between military and civilian emergency services.The scenario, carefully crafted for training purposes, facilitated a
Our Region Needs Your Input
One of the things our chamber is trying to help provide you with is insight into key metrics showing the state of our business community. That's why when you visit our home page, the first thing you see is a link to the Florida Scorecard, presented by the Florida Chamber. There, you will see how Seminole County specifically compares to the rest of the state in several factors, such as job growth, unemployment, third-grade reading and more. You can find all that information by clicking
Seminole County Animal Services Launches Pets For Patriots
Seminole County, FL (February 1, 2024) — Seminole County Animal Services is launching a new adoption program for our military veterans in partnership with Pets for Patriots. By joining forces with Pets for Patriots, Seminole County Animal Services will offer a free pet adoption to veterans who adopt program-eligible dogs and cats. Animals eligible for adoption through the Pets for Patriots Program include;Dog or cat, at least 2 years of age ORDog or cat with special needs ORDog or cat in the shelter with
Seminole County Chamber’s Support for Local Funding Appropriations
Every year, communities across Florida depend on funding from the Florida Legislature to help so many facets of our state. The impact of appropriations on local non-profits, government and other entities is significant.Over the past few weeks, the Seminole County Chamber looked for ways to ensure the members of the chamber can find funding to meet their critical missions. As such, the Seminole County Chamber encourages state legislators to push for the following appropriation requests and for Governor Ron
City of Altamonte Springs Places in the Top 10 in Nationwide Public Holiday Lights Display Contest
Altamonte Springs, Fla. (December 8, 2023) – The City of Altamonte Springs has reason to celebrate as our “Light Up the Holidays” event has been ranked No. 8 in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest for Best Public Lights Display. This recognition is a great indication of the trust that residents and visitors have in the City to deliver a cherished and heartfelt community tradition. "This is a tremendous honor for our City,” said Frank Martz, City Manager of Altamonte Springs. "Light
City of Altamonte Springs Honored with the 2023 FMIT Partnership Innovation Award
Florida Municipal Insurance Trust Recognizes the City for Proactive Approach to Risk Management Altamonte Springs, Fla.– On December 5, 2023, the City of Altamonte Springs was presented with the Partnership Innovation Award from the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT). This award recognizes the innovative practices that help reduce costs, turn challenges into opportunities and ensure the safety of staff and the community. Altamonte Springs was honored for its proactive approach to governing,
Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Expands Professional Opportunities, Welcoming Young Talent as Detention Deputies
Seminole Co. Fla., (November 16, 2023) – - The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office is excited to announce a fundamental change in its hiring policy, now opening doors for qualified candidates as young as 18 years old to join the organization as Detention Deputies at the John E. Polk Correctional Facility, including the opportunity to become certified through the organization’s sponsorship program, once reserved exclusively for candidates with college degrees.Recognizing the importance of engaging the younger
Hope Now Donates 50 backpacks for students at Longwood Elementary
In a heartwarming display of philanthropy, the Hope Now Foundation, led by its founder Michael Radka, extended its mission of making a lasting and meaningful impact by donating 50 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to Longwood Elementary School, 840 Orange Avenue, Longwood, FL this Wednesday morning, October 11. This act of generosity exemplifies the organization's commitment to uplifting communities and nurturing a better future for children in need. For over a decade, the Hope Now
City of Altamonte Springs Launches First Automated AI-Powered Site Plan Review Partnership in Florida with AutoReview.AI
The City of Altamonte Springs is launching a partnership with AutoReview.AI to perform AI-powered, automated site plan review for development plans and landscaping plans. Altamonte Springs is the first city in Florida to implement automated review of site plans and landscape plans. The partnership will be a part of the Altamonte Global Innovation Lab, or AGīL (pronounced, “agile”) deploying the software through the City’s development review process. Using a highly-advanced artificial intelligence