State Sen. Arrington remote office hours
Kicking off the new year with a focus on accessibility and service, District 25 State Sen. Kristen Arrington (D– Kissimmee) has announced January Remote Office Hours.
Staff from Arrington’s office will be on hand to help constituents navigate issues like Medicaid, housing, SNAP, unemployment benefits, consumer services, and other state-related concerns. The days and times are: Monday, Jan. 19, 9-11:30 a.m.—Poinciana Library, 101 N Doverplum Ave. (In partnership with Congressman Darren Soto) Thursday, Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.—Kissimmee City Hall, 101 Church St.
“Every conversation matters,” said Senator Arrington. “These office hours give residents a chance to sit down with our team, share their concerns, and get help navigating state services without unnecessary barriers.”
Constituents are encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance by visiting https:// bit.ly/RemoteOfficeHours or emailing Villalobos.Ana@flsenate.gov, though walk-ins are welcome during office hours.
St. Cloud Hospital President Wetzel celebrates 30th anniversary
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital celebrated President Brian Wetzel’s 30th anniversary with the healthcare system this week. Team members gathered around a cake to congratulate Wetzel, who was hired by Orlando Health on Jan. 8, 1996. He returned to his hometown to become St. Cloud Hospital president in July 2022 after serving as president of Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital.
“Brian is an exceptional leader whose heart is truly woven into the St. Cloud community,” said Philip Koovakada, senior vice president of Orlando Health’s South Florida Region, which includes Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “For 30 years, his dedication to compassionate, high-quality healthcare has strengthened our organization and positively impacted the lives of many patients, families and team members.”
Michael Mewhirter named CEO of AdventHealth Celebration
AdventHealth has named Michael Mewhirter as CEO of AdventHealth Celebration, effective Feb. 2, following Amanda Maggard’s appointment as chief people officer for the health system’s Multi-State Division.
“It’s an honor to return to AdventHealth Celebration and serve alongside such a dedicated team,” he said. “As I step into this new role, I look forward to supporting our teams and working with our physicians and community partners to continue advancing wholeperson care for the families who trust us every day.”
Mewhirter previously served as vice president and chief operating officer of AdventHealth Celebration before accepting his most recent role as AdventHealth East Orlando CEO.
“Michael’s return to AdventHealth Celebration marks a meaningful homecoming,” said Doug Harcombe, CEO of AdventHealth Central Florida Division’s South Market. “Having previously served on the campus, he brings both a deep understanding of our faith-based mission and a strong connection to the communities and families we serve across Osceola County and the South Market. His commitment to whole-person care will continue to strengthen how we serve those who place their trust in us.”
Local Orlando Health ER earns award
Orlando Health Emergency Room—Osceola was one of three facilities in the Orlando Health chain to earn a 2025 Human Experience Guardian of Excellence Award from Press Ganey, a leader in healthcare experience solutions and services. Press Ganey’s annually ranks top hospitals and health systems in the country, using its performance metrics in patient experience. Press Ganey works with more than 41,000 healthcare facilities, with an eye on improving the overall safety, quality and experience of care.
