Positively Osceola News Today, Osceola County's Leading and Trusted Source For Local News

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3 2024

Riding into History: Silver Spurs Quadrille Team’s Memorable Journey at the 135th Rose Parade Honoring the Dream: Kissimmee’s Martin Luther King Jr Unity Celebration, Saturday January 13 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington to Host Three Kings Day Toy Giveaway on Saturday, January 6th No Charges Filed by Grand Jury in 2022 Kissimmee Target Shooting Involving Osceola Deputies SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival to Set Sail on a Taste Adventure Friday February 2 – May 19, 2024 For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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Minutes from Home.

A Lifetime of Healing.

You’re not just our patient. You’re our neighbor. For more than 50 years, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has been honored to provide exceptional care for the Osceola County community we proudly call home. And because it’s your home, too, you deserve trusted healthcare within reach, so we can foster a partnership focused on health and wellness — together. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/StCloud

choose well.

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA LIVE with Osceola School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff as featured speaker at St. Main Steet’s Breakfast with the Pros!

LIVE at the Festival of Lights Parade in Kissimmee

LIVE for a very special announcement from a very special organization that you are about to hear a lot from in education in and around Osceola County

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IN & AROUND OSCEOLA LIVE at the St. Cloud Holiday Festival with Mary Cox of the Rotary Club of Kissimmee Bay

LIVE at the St. Cloud Christmas Parade

LIVE for the tree lighting in Downtown St. Cloud, kicking off the holiday season!

LIVE as the DKC presents its Beautification Award to the 1881 Restaurant & Bar in Historic Downtown Kissimmee

LIVE for the Tree Lighting Ceremony in Celebration Town Center!

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ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS LIVE with City of St. Cloud Flood Plain Manager Leigh Anne Tomaino December 11th, 2023

LIVE is featuring real estate brokerage icon and community leader Linda Goodwin- Nichols December 5th, 2023

LIVE with Ray Parsons, owner of 1881 Restaurant & Bar in downtown Kissimmee November 29th, 2023

LIVE with Keith Ronan and Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office November 22nd, 2023

LIVE with St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dirk Webb November 21st, 2023

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VIDEOS ON DEMAND City of St. Cloud’s Annual Tree Swap Instead of throwing your old Christmas tree to the curb after the holidays, swap it out for a beautiful new tree to plant at home on Saturday, January 13th from 9am to 1pm at the St. Cloud Civic Center during the City of St. Cloud’s Annual Tree Swap.

Positively Osceola, Making a Positive Difference in and Around Osceola County!

Stay informed and inspired with Positively Osceola, your 24/7 go-to news in and around Osceola County! Positively Osceola shares the latest updates on local events, community achievements, and inspiring stories. From heartwarming features to breaking news, PO has you covered. Experience the power of positivity with Positively Osceola!

Buckle Up for Action: Demolition Derby to return to the 80th Osceola County Fair in February!

Get ready for heart-pounding excitement at the Osceola County Fair, coming back from February 9-18, 2024! Mark your calendars for February 11, when the adrenaline-fueled Demolition Derby returns - it’s a crowd favorite you won’t want to miss!

Talent Tuesday at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Every Tuesday is Talent Tuesday at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital from 1-3pm.

Don Schmidt Roofing Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the finest materials and craftmanship.

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NEWS

Riding into History: Silver Spurs Quadrille Team’s Memorable Journey at the 135th Rose Parade

The Silver Spurs Quadrille team elegantly ushered in the new year as they brought Osceola County’s rich heritage to the streets of Pasadena in the 2024 Rose Parade.

Quadrille Marshal Ashley Fluke expressed the team’s pride, saying, “We are honored to have left our hoof prints in Pasadena as we represented Osceola County’s rich heritage in the Rose Parade. This team saddled up for the ride of a lifetime and definitely brought something unique to this quintessential New Year’s Day event.”

The team consisted of sixteen killed riders and their horses: Bear Kempfer & Sheila Kataif, Clifton Chapman & Summer Booth, Ricky Booth & Ashley Fluke, Chad Garmany & Laci Langford, Steve & Kaye Whaley, John Partin & Julie Soileau, Randy Booth & Amanda Yontz, Wade Kempfer & Natalie Booth, and Derrick Whaley & Courtney Kempfer.

They were accompanied by Quadrille Caller Heath White, guiding the team’s precision square dance from behind.

The Silver Spurs Quadrille, a demonstration of sixteen horses in a coordinated ‘square dance,’ was one of the highlights among groups showcasing equestrian skills in the parade.

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NEWS Honoring the Dream: Kissimmee’s Martin Luther King Jr Unity Celebration, Saturday January 13 On Saturday, January 13th, the City of Kissimmee and the community will come together to pay homage to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a Unity Celebration at the scenic Kissimmee Lakefront Park, from noon to 4 pm. This vibrant event, hosted by the City of Kissimmee, and sponsored by Kissimmee Utility Authority and Toho Water Authority, invites the community to embrace diversity and unity through a shared appreciation of culture, music, and engagement.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3RRYzon

Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington to Host Three Kings Day Toy Giveaway on Saturday, January 6th Osceola County Commissioner for District 3, Brandon Arrington will host The Three Kings Day Toy Giveaway on Saturday, January 6th, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m at Valencia College’s Poinciana campus on Pleasant Hill Road.

Attendees can look forward to an afternoon filled with joy and celebration including Live Music, Pony Rides, Incredible Giveaways, and Free Toys for the Kids.

It’s important to note that children must be present to receive gifts, ensuring that the joy of giving is experienced firsthand.

This event not only celebrates the Three Kings Day but also gives an opportunity for families to come together, enjoy festive activities, and create lasting memories.

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NEWS No Charges Filed by Grand Jury in 2022 Kissimmee Target Shooting Involving Osceola Deputies State Attorney Andrew Bain announced on Tuesday that two Osceola Sheriff Deputies involved in a shooting that resulted in one fatality and injuries when deputies converged on an Audi in the Target parking lot in 2022 would not face charges. Investigators say a number of teenagers were accused of stealing a pizza and some Pokémon cards from the Target before being confronted by Osceola Deputies.

During the press conference, Bain shared that a public grand jury decided against charging Deputies Scott Koffinas and Ramy Yacoub in the death of Jayden Baez or in connection with injuries suffered by Baez’s passengers.. He noted that the jury considered various testimonies and evidence before reaching their decision, but added that the grand jury would continue investigating in a “second presentment phase” to understand better how to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival to Set Sail on a Taste Adventure Friday February 2 – May 19, 2024

Oceans of flavor and fun are waiting at SeaWorld Orlando during its 2024 Seven Seas Food Festival.

From foodies to families, everyone will find tasty delights among more than 200 distinct offerings.

Revitalize your taste buds as you share this welcoming, open-air experience on select dates February 2 – May 19, 2024.

Explore more than 50 fresh global cuisine choices to pair with over 75 wine and cocktail selections and 75 craft beers. It will be easy to sample your way around the world with exciting flavors and local craft beers, plus live performances.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/479joAl For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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OSCEOLA WEATHER

Osceola County Weather: After a cool start to Wednesday temps will rise into the 60s and low 70s, rain and colder air to return this week Happy Wednesday Osceola! After starting off in the 40s, the sun will warm Osceola to a high of 69, a bit warmer than Tuesday. Osceola is set to experience the first in a series of weather fronts tonight, with a 50% chance of scattered showers and occasional storms lasting until Thursday morning’s sunrise. Temperatures will drop into the 60s on Thursday, followed by a mild increase to the low 70s by Friday. Expect a wet Saturday, as another front moves in during the morning, bringing a 70% chance of persistent rain and storms throughout the day.

Tonight A slight chance of showers before 1am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 1am and 4am, then a chance of showers after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. South wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 65. West northwest wind around 10 mph becoming north in the afternoon.

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February 3 , 2024 8:30 am – 11:00 am Lakefront Park

1104 Lakeshore Blvd.

Saint Cloud, FL US 34769 3RD ANNUAL

Entry Fees

PRIZES

$30: Adult 18 and up Fee includes: T-shirt $30: Virtual option Finisher Medal $28 8: Child 4-17 AGES

16 + (male/female) 1st place (Amazon $100) 2nd place (Amazon $50) 3rd place (Amazon $25)

AGES

4-16 (male/female)

1st place (Amazon $100) 2nd place (Amazon $50) 3rd place (Amazon $25)

Race Registration: 7:45 AM Opening Ceremonies: 8:10 AM Race Start: 8:30 AM Runners, Walkers, Strollers and WALKUP REGISTRATIONS WELCOME

GRAHAM J. COWAN

• F O U N DAT I O N • Founded 2019

Register AND LEARN MORE ABOUT the race LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FOUNDATION and sponsorship opportunities

NEWS KUA to host free Movie in the Park featuring ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem’ Friday January 5 at Kissimmee’s Lakefront Park Kissimmee Utility Authority, in partnership with the City of Kissimmee, will continue its 2023-2024 Movie in the Park series on Friday, Jan 5, 2024, at Kissimmee Lakefront Park.

The hugely popular ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem” movie will be shown on a giant 50-foot screen. Activities begin at 5:30 p.m. including free admission, free popcorn, free inflatables, free crafts, a free photo booth, and prize giveaways. The movie will begin at 7 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket and be prepared to have a positively awesome time at KUA’s free community event!

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3NFadka

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NEWS Get Ready to Rock: ‘Burn the Jukebox’ Band to Take the Stage at 2024 Osceola County Fair in February!

Get ready to rock, as the sensational young band, ‘Burn the Jukebox,’ is set to take the stage at the 2024 Osceola County Fair this February. Comprising four immensely talented teenagers with an unwavering passion for music, Burn the Jukebox promises to deliver an electrifying performance that will leave the audience begging for more.

This powerhouse ensemble, with members aged 15 to 16, has dedicated countless hours to perfecting their craft and mastering a wide range of musical hits spanning the last five decades. From classic tunes to modern anthems, Burn the Jukebox knows how to captivate a crowd, get them moving, and keep them on their feet all night long.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3RRPYCq

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NEWS

Braving the Cold: Manatees’ Winter Journey in Florida Waters As the chill of winter descends upon Florida, manatees in and around Brevard County face a critical challenge. In these colder months, particularly as 2023 gives way to 2024 with predicted lows in the low 40s, these gentle giants seek refuge in warmer waters to survive.

Manatees, often called sea cows, are particularly susceptible to cold stress due to their low metabolic rate and lack of insulating fat. In response to the dropping temperatures, they migrate to warmer habitats, often congregating in natural springs or near power plant outflows where the water remains a constant, warmer temperature.

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Tree-cycle This Holiday Season: Participate in the ‘Don’t Curb It, Swap It’ Annual Tree Swap Join the City of St. Cloud for their inspiring annual Don’t Curb It, Swap It event. This unique tree swap initiative offers a sustainable solution for your post-holiday needs. Instead of leaving your old Christmas tree on the curb, the city invites you to swap it for a new one. It’s more than just an exchange; it’s an opportunity to contribute positively to the environment.

Each participant will receive a new tree, ready to be planted at home, continuing the cycle of life and growth.

Remember to bring your old tree free of all decorations to swap.

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NEWS Draper Law Highlights the Importance of Sober and Undistracted Driving During the Holidays in and Around Osceola County The holiday season, particularly around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, is a time for joy and celebration.

However, it also marks a significant increase in road traffic and, unfortunately, a rise in drivingrelated incidents in and around Osceola County. This period typically sees a large spike in accidents due to impaired, drunk, or distracted driving, making it crucial to emphasize the importance of driving sober and undistracted.

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NEWS Elevate Your Child’s Learning Experience With Pre-K through 8th Grade Creative Inspiration Journey School in St. Cloud As the educational landscape continues to evolve in and around Osceola County, parents are seeking more than just a conventional schooling experience for their children. They seek environments that foster individual growth, creativity, and a sense of community. Creative Inspiration Journey School (CIJS), a tuition-free Pre-K through 8th grade public charter school located in St. Cloud, has emerged as a beacon of innovative education, offering an unparalleled learning journey for students.

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NEWS New Florida ‘Protect the Panther’ specialty license plate now available to Florida motorists A new Protect the Panther license plate is now available to Florida motorists, and features a striking photograph taken by Carlton Ward in 2018 of the first female panther documented north of the Caloosahatchee River since 1973, along with her kitten. The new license plate can be purchased at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles or by checking with your local tax collector office for availability.

The FWC is reminding the public that purchasing a Protect the Panther license plate isn’t the only way motorists can help panthers, drivers can also help by following all posted speed limits, particularly in panther zones, which are in place in several counties across south Florida to coincide with areas where panthers are known to cross. Panther speed zones help protect both Florida panthers and motorists from vehicle collisions and potential injury.

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NEWS Start the New Year with Savings: Florida’s Backto-School Tax-Free Days Begin January 1st As the festive season winds down, Florida gears up for yet another exciting shopping event: the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday. This year, the holiday begins on New Year’s Day and extends until Sunday, January 14, 2024. It’s a perfect opportunity for families and students to make significant savings on various essentials.

During January 2024’s Florida Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, a wide range of items will be exempt from sales tax. This includes personal computers and related accessories priced at $1,500 or less, ideal for students and home offices. Additionally, clothing, footwear, and accessories priced at $100 or less per item, along with school supplies at $50 or less per item, are also tax-free. For younger learners, even learning aids and jigsaw puzzles priced at $30 or less are included.

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NEWS FWC Announces Updated Snook Fishing Rules for 2024 At its October meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved new management regions and regulations for snook in state waters following the final rule hearing.

These regulations, which go into effect Jan. 1, 2024, will: • Establish nine snook management regions.

• Establish open seasons as well as bag and slot limits for each region, which are detailed below:

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OSCEOLA’S BEST

The Cup Diner: Osceola’s Best Breakfast Award Shines Spotlight on St. Cloud’s Culinary and Community Gem In a heartwarming ceremony on Saturday, September 16, ‘The Cup Diner,’ a beloved restaurant nestled in the heart of St. Cloud, was presented with the prestigious “Osceola’s Best Breakfast” Award by Positively Osceola, marking a well-deserved recognition of their dedication to crafting exceptional dining experiences for their community.

The Cup Diner, a cozy family-owned eatery, has been a cherished part of St. Cloud’s culinary landscape for years, and is certainly more than just a local restaurant; it’s a home away from home for countless members of the community.

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Mutt’s on 13th in St. Cloud: Osceola’s Best Burger Award Winner, Celebrating 13 Years of Excellence

In the heart of St. Cloud, culinary excellence meets community spirit at Mutt’s on 13th, a vibrant local eatery that recently achieved the highly esteemed “Osceola’s Best Burger Award” from Positively Osceola. This accolade signifies not only their commitment to crafting mouthwatering burgers but also their dedication to creating a gathering place where residents and visitors can enjoy both excellent food and a sense of community. As if this achievement weren’t enough, Mutt’s on 13th is also celebrating its 13th year in business, making this recognition Positively Delicious!

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OSCEOLA’S BEST Granny’s Southern Smokehouse Does It Again: Voted ‘Osceola’s Best Barbecue’ by Community, Positively Osceola Nestled in Downtown St. Cloud, there’s a barbecue joint that has been turning heads and igniting taste buds for years. Granny’s Southern Smokehouse, a beloved local eatery, has recently received the prestigious ‘Osceola’s Best Barbecue Award’ for the second time, an honor presented

by Osceola County’s leading source for news, Positively Osceola. Behind the smoky goodness and fingerlicking flavors stands a true barbecue virtuoso, Jay Brown, owner and pitmaster extraordinaire.

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NEWS Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital doctor performs first laparoscopic nephrectomy – kidney removal surgery Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital’s Dr. Sarat Sabharwal performed the hospital’s first laparoscopic nephrectomy this month, a milestone for patient care.

Nephrectomy, or removal of a kidney, may be necessary when a patient has recurrent kidney infections, irreversible damage, long-term obstruction or tumors that indicate kidney cancer.

Laparoscopic nephrectomy – a minimally invasive approach – uses tiny incisions in the abdomen that result in decreased blood loss, less pain, plus a shorter hospital stay and recovery. Many patients are able to return to full activity within 3-4 weeks after surgery.

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VISIT OSCEOLA Exploring Osceola County’s Natural Trails and Spaces: A Paradise for Avid Runners, Walkers, and Kayakers Osceola County is a hidden gem for avid runners, walkers, and kayakers seeking a combination of physical fitness and natural beauty.

Although the county is one of the fastest growing regions in Florida, its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and wellmaintained trails, offer a haven for those who want to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through ten of Osceola County’s finest locations where you can experience invigorating runs and leisurely walks amid breathtaking natural landscapes.

• Shingle Creek Regional Park: Shingle Creek Regional Park, often referred to as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. This vast park offers a network of scenic trails suitable for running and walking. The trails wind through lush forests, along the banks of Shingle Creek, and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an intense trail run, Shingle Creek has something for everyone.

• Celebration Lakeside Park: Celebration, a charming community in Osceola County, and known to many as the ‘Town that Disney built,’ boasts Celebration Lakeside Park, a beautiful destination for runners and walkers. The park features a loop trail around Lake Rianhard, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The flat terrain and wellpaved paths make it an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or a brisk run.

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NEWS

Positively Osceola Unveils Dynamic Business Support Initiative, ‘Positively Osceola Plus’

In a move set to revolutionize local business growth and community engagement, Positively Osceola, the leading hub for local news, sports, and events in Osceola County, has unveiled an innovative initiative known as ‘Positively Osceola Plus.’

‘Positively Osceola Plus’ is designed to extend a helping hand to businesses, organizations, and individuals in and around Osceola County, fostering their capacity to connect with target audiences and achieve their marketing and promotional aspirations.

Recognized as Osceola County’s foremost source for trusted information, Positively Osceola is leveraging its extensive reach and credibility to provide an enhanced platform for businesses looking to expand their marketing presence and connect meaningfully with their communities.

Positively Osceola Plus offers a comprehensive suite of support services tailored to meet the diverse needs of local enterprises. From strategic marketing guidance and targeted advertising to community outreach initiatives, the program aims to empower businesses and organizations in amplifying their visibility and achieving their goals.

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NEWS

Mecum Kissimmee, World’s Largest Collector Car Auction to Return to Kissimmee January 2-14 Mecum Kissimmee 2024, the 25th anniversary celebration of The World’s Largest Collector Car Auction is returning this January 2-14 at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida, and according to Mecum officials, there will be more vehicles, more road art, and more exhibits to view, than ever before!

The car count for the anniversary of the world record-setting event is poised to outpace that of previous years, with the diverse selection including American muscle cars, ‘50s classics, Corvettes, exotics, trucks, Hot Rods, customs and more. Live coverage of the auction will be available for viewing on MotorTrendTV and MotorTrend+.

Admission to Mecum Kissimmee is $30 per person, per day or $75 for a three-day pass; children 12 and younger receive complimentary admission. Gates open daily at 8 a.m. for previewing, with the auctions taking place Tuesday, Jan. 2 through Wednesday, Jan. 10 at 10 a.m., and Thursday, Jan. 11 through Sunday.

Road Art exhibits will be open Tuesday, Jan. 2 through Wednesday, Jan. 10 at 9 a.m., and Thursday, Jan. 11 through Sunday, Jan. 14 at 8:30 a.m.

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OSCEOLA BUSINESS REFERRAL SERVICE

Making Business Better, Together

OBRS.NET

HEALTH

Maxim Olivier, MD Cardiology Orlando Health

Orlando Health: Caffeine-Packed Drinks May Be Dangerous to Your Heart

Energy drinks and other caffeine-packed beverages have become increasingly popular, particularly with teens and young adults. While most people can drink them safely, they can be a health threat if you have heart issues or high blood pressure.

It is not uncommon to find energy drinks that contain 200 mg of caffeine – or roughly the equivalent of six cans of soda or two cups of coffee. The average person should drink no more than 400 mg of caffeine each day, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Even more troubling: It might not always be obvious that a beverage is highly caffeinated. You should always read labels.

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INJURY LAW Draper Law: Which vehicles are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents?

Sadly, serious and fatal accidents take place on a daily basis in Central Florida. These crashes can happen in a number of ways and can be caused by not following traffic laws, inexperience, intoxication, distracted driving, fatigue, and medical issues.

Statistics show that fatal car accidents can often occur based on the type of vehicle.

You may think that sports cars are most likely to be in crashes due to their speed and performance. However, according to the NHTSA, it’s the everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs on the roadways that are involved more frequently in serious or even deadly accidents, with sedans and pickup trucks accounting for more than three-quarters of fatal accidents. If you drive out on the roadways, here’s what you need to know about which vehicles have been involved in many of the crashes.

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NEWS Beware of online scams when searching for home weatherization assistance programs The Osceola Council on Aging is warning the community to beware of fraudulent websites while searching for home weatherization programs. These websites ask people to fill out online forms, which are then used to steal the applicant’s personal information.

Unfortunately, when a victim of this malicious fraud attempts to contact the company, they receive no response or support.

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HEALTH

Coral Candelario-Velazquez, MD Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Orlando Health

Orlando Health: Is TENS Right for Your Child?

Relieving your child’s pain doesn’t always mean taking medicine or having surgery. Simple TENS units, which have become more popular in recent years, offer a safe, noninvasive alternative for many kids.

WHAT IS A TENS UNIT?

endorphins in the body to dull pain.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses a mild electrical current to block or mask the transmission of pain signals to your child’s brain and to stimulate the release of

The electrical impulses are sent to the nerves through electrodes placed on your child’s skin near the painful areas and connected with wires to a small battery-operated unit. The electrical impulses cause a tingling sensation, which should be pleasant. It should be at a level that feels comfortable, causes no muscle contractions and produces pain relief.

PAIN RELIEF FROM TENS A TENS unit can provide short-term pain relief for many children with chronic and acute muscle and joint pain, allowing them the time they need to complete an activity or to get to sleep. It usually is the most beneficial at the end of a child’s day after pain has built up.

Sometimes the use of TENS also can reduce the amount of pain medicine a child needs. You should discuss with your child’s doctor how this therapy can be incorporated into your child’s daily treatments.

Always supervise your child when a TENS unit is being used. A child can experience more pain if the TENS unit is used incorrectly.

SAFETY OF TENS For most children, TENS is a safe treatment with no side effects. However, you should always consult your child’s doctor before beginning any treatment. There are some patients, such as those with epilepsy or heart conditions, who should not use a TENS unit.

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NEWS City of St. Cloud Offers Small Businesses Community Development Block Grants Up to $30,000 The City of St. Cloud is investing up to $328,100 through its Community Development Block Grant program, funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, to assist any small businesses in the City with financial assistance for eligible economic development activity, including job creation and/or retention.

“There was some confusion caused by an error on the application form, but we want to reassure our local businesses that these grants are available to any local business, not just those in the downtown area,” said Economic Development Director Antranette Forbes. “We remain committed to helping all our businesses prosper as our city continues to grow.”

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Heads Up. We’re Here.

We know emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. With 14 ER locations throughout Central Florida, we’re ready to provide expert emergency care if you’re facing one. No matter which one you choose, you’ll find a place where chaos meets calm and uncertainty finds answers. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/ER

IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS Experience the Excitement of Universal Mardi Gras 2024: A World of Flavors and Fun! Universal Orlando Resort guests can once again experience the flavor and flair of Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, returning to Universal Studios Florida from February 3 through April 7, 2024.

The wildly popular celebration features mouthwatering menu of eclectic cuisine inspired by New Orleans favorites and iconic Carnaval traditions around the globe, a spectacular Mardi Gras parade complete with tons of colorful beads, dazzling floats and energetic street performers, and – on select nights – live concerts by top-name talent to cap off the festivities.

Guests can experience all the excitement of Universal Mardi Gras with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida or a valid Universal Orlando Pass (blockout dates apply).

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SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival to Set Sail on a Taste Adventure Friday February 2 – May 19, 2024

Oceans of flavor and fun are waiting at SeaWorld Orlando during its 2024 Seven Seas Food Festival.

From foodies to families, everyone will find tasty delights among more than 200 distinct offerings.

Revitalize your taste buds as you share this welcoming, open-air experience on select dates February 2 – May 19, 2024.

Explore more than 50 fresh global cuisine choices to pair with over 75 wine and cocktail selections and 75 craft beers. It will be easy to sample your way around the world with exciting flavors and local craft beers, plus live performances.

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IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS Experience the Thrill of Racing with LEGO: Ferrari Build & Race Coming to Legoland Florida in 2024 Legoland Florida Resort is set to rev up excitement in Spring 2024 with its newest addition, the LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race Experience. This innovative attraction is designed to ignite the imaginations and adrenaline of both young and old enthusiasts, offering a unique interactive experience.

At the heart of this new attraction is the opportunity for guests to build, test, and race their own Ferrari creations. It’s more than just an amusement ride; it’s an immersive experience that combines the thrill of racing with the creativity and fun of LEGO® building. The LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race Experience promises to be a highlight for families and LEGO® fans, offering a hands-on approach to learning and enjoyment.

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SeaWorld Orlando Continues to Gear Up for ‘Penguin Trek,’ A Thrilling New Antarctic-Themed Roller Coaster for 2024 SeaWorld Orlando is continuing to work on an exhilarating new experience for its visitors, ‘Penguin Trek,’ a roller coaster slated to open in 2024. This soon-coming addition to SeaWorld’s lineup of attractions promises to blend thrilling rides with the enchanting theme of the Antarctic.

“Penguin Trek” is poised to capture the imagination of guests, offering a unique journey that mirrors the adventures of its namesake creatures. SeaWorld has already given a sneak peek of the coaster’s ‘snowmobile’ vehicle, indicating a design that’s both innovative and thematic, aligning with the park’s commitment to combining entertainment with education about wildlife.

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POSITIVELY DELICIOUS A Taste of Florida’s Finest: Positively Delicious Strawberry Stuffed French Toast Embark on a delightful culinary journey with Stuffed French Toast using fresh Florida Strawberries, a sumptuous breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of Florida’s freshest strawberries with the comforting, classic flavors of French toast. This recipe transforms your morning meal into a decadent experience, featuring fluffy slices of bread soaked in a rich, vanilla-infused egg mixture, filled with a luscious strawberry and goat cheese blend. It’s positively delicious!

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Sunshine in a Cup: Florida’s Positively Delicious Orange-Cinnamon Cider Savor the essence of Florida with Orange-Cinnamon Cider, a harmonious blend of sun-kissed Florida oranges and aromatic cinnamon. This simple yet exquisite drink balances the zesty freshness of citrus with the warm, sweet spice of cinnamon, creating a comforting and delightful experience. Enjoy a taste of Florida’s warmth and cheer with each sip of this positively delicious cider.

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Sunshine in a Bowl: Florida Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Florida Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a positively delicious dish that captures the essence of wholesome, home-cooked comfort. Made with the freshest chicken and a vibrant array of locally-grown vegetables, this soup embodies the natural bounty of Florida. It’s a simple, yet delightful way to bring a taste of Florida’s heartwarming cuisine to your table, making it a perfect choice for family meals or when you need a little culinary sunshine.

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POSITIVELY DELICIOUS Flavors of Florida: A Positively Delicious Chicken Tortilla Soup Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Florida with Florida Chicken Tortilla Soup, a dish brimming with the vibrant flavors and freshness synonymous with the Sunshine State. This soup is a delightful fusion of tender, seasoned chicken, ripe Florida produce, and a harmonious blend of spices that come together to create a comfort food experience like no other.

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Local Flavor, Spicy Wings: Florida Buffalo Chicken Wings Florida Buffalo Hot Chicken Wings are a positively delicious choice for any celebration. Combining the zesty kick of buffalo sauce with fresh, locally-sourced Florida chicken, these wings are a surefire hit. Crispy, flavorful, and infused with just the right amount of spice, they’re not only a crowd-pleaser but also a festive and easy-to-make dish that adds a burst of excitement to your holiday menu.

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Garden Fresh: Florida Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs

Florida Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs is a positively delicious dish that elevates the humble potato to new culinary heights. Infused with the aromatic blend of fresh garlic and a selection of herbs, these potatoes showcase Florida’s fresh, local produce. The unique Hasselback cut allows each slice to crisp up perfectly while absorbing the flavors of garlic and herbs, creating a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes.

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