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

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.

LIVE at Harmony High School, first year Head Coach, Nick Lippert, looks to lead the Longhorns to victory in their home season opener

Introducing the soul of Friday Nights at Harmony, the 2023 Harmony High School Marching Band

Central Avenue Elementary School was the recipient of a huge school supply donation made by the Central Florida Indian Community

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

LIVE at the Downtown Kissimmee Councils Downtown Upate as Rick Lewellyan with Downtown Gather & Grow speaks

LIVE with Jurassic Jungle at the Kissimmee Civic Center

LIVE at the Downtown Kissimmee Councils Downtown Update as Deputy Chief Manager, Desiree Matthews, updates the community

LIVE at Bella Roma Pizzeria, voted Osceola’s Best Pizza

LIVE with Jude Smith of City of Life Church, whose wish was granted by the Nikolas Ritschel Foundation

ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS

LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office

August 16th, 2023

LIVE with District 46 State Representative Kristen Arrington

July 26th, 2023

LIVE with Michelle Incandela of Draper Law Office

July 19th, 2023

LIVE with new Osceola School District Superintendent, Dr. Mark Shanoff

June 26th, 2023

LIVE with Michelle Incandela of Draper Law Office

June 21st, 2023

VIDEOS ON DEMAND

The Mayor’s Minute with St. Cloud Mayor Nathan Blackwell

The Mayor’s Minute with Nathan Blackwell, Mayor of the City of St. Cloud, Florida. A free Movie in the Park at Hopkins Park featuring the movie “The Witches” will be held on Friday, Oct. 13th. St. Cloud’s annual Fall Festival is Oct. 14th and 15th at The Ranch. Pink Heals will be holding its annual Pinktoberfest at the Lakefront on Saturday, Oct. 21st.

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!

Kissimmee Utility Authority Hurricane Handbook

With the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season here, Kissimmee Utility Authority has released its 2023 Osceola Hurricane Handbook, a free, bilingual, comprehensive preparedness guide offered annually to Osceola County residents.

Talent Tuesday at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital

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

Country Thunder Florida

Tickets on sale now for Country Thunder Florida, the Southeast’s most kickin’ country music festival, October 20 - 22 at Osceola Heritage Park.

Osceola County Green Lights $3 Million for Hotel Conversion Affordable Housing Project in Kissimmee

On Monday, the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners approved a $3 million partnership with the City of Kissimmee to acquire and renovate a former hotel, which will be transformed into a new affordable housing project.

The project, known as the Haven Project, will convert the Super 8 Hotel located at 1815 W. Vine Street in Kissimmee, into affordable housing that will consist of a mix of 40 emergency/bridge housing units and 80 apartment units. The project is expected to be fully open to residents in March of 2025.

“With the rise in rental costs throughout the region, this project will address a critical need for the less fortunate in our community, who increasingly are unable to afford housing and basic living expenses,” said Osceola County Commission Chairwoman Viviana Janer. “This partnership with the City of Kissimmee will provide a lifeline for our residents who are in dire need of safe and affordable housing options.”

“I think we all recognize that a lack of affordable housing and homelessness extends beyond our city limits. We’re thankful Osceola County is contributing towards the purchase of the property and that they see and believe in the potential of the programs, housing options, and life-changing opportunities the City of Kissimmee will provide to those in need,” said Mayor Olga Gonzalez, City of Kissimmee.

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

Osceola County Weather: Sunny skies and lower rain chances continue in and around Osceola County

Happy Tuesday Osceola! We’ll see mostly sunny skies today with a high around 86, and 20% chance of showers in the afternoon hours. Rain chances will tick back up as the week progresses, but last week’s soggy weather is behind us for now with drier weather in the forecast through the weekend and into next week. We’ll feel a northeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph

Tonight

A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. North northeast wind around 10 mph.

Wednesday

A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. East northeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48FWpPo

Earns Prestigious 2023 Central Florida Top Workplace Award from Orlando Sentinel

KUA

Kissimmee Utility Authority received a 2023 Top Workplace award by the Orlando Sentinel’s Top Workplaces program. The list includes companies from ten Central Florida counties and is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC.

“We’re extremely honored to be recognized with this prestigious award,” said KUA President and General Manager Brian Horton. “It’s particularly rewarding since this acknowledgment was a direct result of feedback from our dedicated and talented workforce.”

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

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

U.S. Postal Service Commemorates Legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

The United States Postal Service has released a new Forever stamp honoring the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The stamp’s unveiling took place at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery during a first-day-of-issue dedication ceremony that was open to the public.

Designed by Ethel Kessler, an art director for USPS, with a Michael J. Deas oil painting based on a photograph by Philip Bermingham, the stamp captures the 107th U.S. Supreme Court justice in her black judicial robe and favorite white-lace collar.

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

Powerball Jackpot Climbs to $1.2 Billion, 3rd Largest Prize in Game History

The Powerball jackpot will continue its ascent through billion dollar territory, after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn Monday night – white balls 12, 26, 27, 43, 47 and red Powerball 5. The Power Play® multiplier was 2X.

The Powerball jackpot now stands at an estimated $1.2 billion for the next drawing on Wednesday night. The jackpot has a cash value of $551.7 million.

Wednesday’s estimated jackpot ranks as the third largest in the Powerball game and seventh largest among U.S. lottery jackpots.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3F1GTzu

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

KUA Seeks Student Art Entries for 2024 Energy Conservation Calendar

Kissimmee Utility Authority invites Osceola County students to showcase their artistic expression to promote energy conversation in the utility’s 30th Annual Calendar Art Contest.

The annual contest is open to Osceola County students enrolled in kindergarten through fifth grade, including public, charter, private, and homeschooled students.

In their entry, students are asked to use crayons, markers, or paints to depict an energy conservation message. A panel of local judges will select the 12 best entries to be used for each calendar month, which will be featured in the utility’s 2024 calendar.

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

KUA Celebrates Public Power Week, Showcases Monster Detective Learning Lab in Osceola County Schools

Kissimmee Utility Authority is celebrating Public Power Week, Oct. 1-7, along with 2,000 other community-powered, not-for-profit electric utilities that collectively provide electricity to 49 million Americans.

As part of the celebration, KUA is bringing an energizing educational lesson to local schools with the help of the Monster Detective Collective Learning Lab. During this one-hour Learning Lab, the Monster Detectives will teach students how energy is made, how it’s used, and how they can reduce their energy use. Students will be empowered to lead their families in making wise energy use choices, and, they’ll receive a free engaging activity book to continue their learning at home.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/46yr2nN

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

Don’t panic when your phone sounds an alarm Wednesday afternoon, it’s a FEMA emergency alert system test

Every smartphone that’s powered on in the United States within range of a cell tower will receive an alert around 2:20 p.m. EDT this Wednesday, Oct. 4, as FEMA conducts a nationwide test of its Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, or IPAWS. Televisions and radios will also receive a test at the same time, which means just about everyone in the country near a connected device will receive a version of the alert message “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” READ

Walt Disney World Offers Ticket Deals for U.S. Military Families

Disney is saying thank you to military families for their service to the U.S. by offering exclusive discounts on various offerings within its theme parks, including tickets, accommodations, and cruises.

Active and retired members of the U.S. Military, as well as their spouses with valid and active U.S. military IDs, can take advantage of these special offers. Until the end of the year, military families planning a visit to Walt Disney World can choose between a four, or five-day ticket.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ZFu7jV

Breaking the Silence in Osceola County: Domestic Violence Awareness Month Sheds Light on a Silent Epidemic

October is not just about falling leaves and pumpkin spice lattes; it’s also a month dedicated to raising awareness about an issue that often remains hidden behind closed doors: domestic violence. Domestic Violence Awareness Month, observed every October, serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address this pervasive problem that affects millions of individuals and families across the globe.

The Unseen Epidemic

Domestic violence is a silent epidemic that affects people of all genders, ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It knows no boundaries and thrives in silence and secrecy. In homes where abuse occurs, victims often suffer in silence, fearing the consequences of speaking out or seeking help. Domestic Violence Awareness Month seeks to break this silence and provide a voice for the voiceless.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3F1n7Em

Driving Dreams: Osceola Council On Aging’s 4th Annual Car Raffle Fundraiser

The Osceola Council On Aging has revved up its highly anticipated 4th Annual Car Raffle Fundraiser, an exciting event that promises to make dreams come true for both the lucky winner and the local senior community.

The 4th Annual Car Raffle Fundraiser is a testament to the OCOA’s commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of seniors, and brings together the community, local businesses, and philanthropic individuals in a spirit of generosity and camaraderie. This year’s lucky ticket will be drawn 30 minutes prior to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 29, 2023.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3rWR6tE

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3PFL0Yf

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!

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Z7O8iK

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3EpG6YY

By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola

Tohopekaliga Tigers Look for 5th Win, Orange Belt Conference Titles Contested This Week

Week seven of the high school football season rolls on this week with several interesting games; while the first two Orange Belt Conference team championships will be contested this week. Take a look around high school sports in Osceola County this week.

FOOTBALL

Five of the county’s eight public high school teams will be in action this week, with three others hitting their “bye” weeks.

The most intriguing game will occur when Tohopekaliga (4-1) hosts Orlando Christian Prep (6-0), a small school currently ranked #8 in the state in Metro 1. Prep and Tohopekaliga have played two common opponents this year, with very similar results. Orlando Prep defeated Liberty (52-6) and Foundation Academy (32-14) earlier this season; as did Tohopekaliga by similar margins — (Liberty, 56-6) and Foundation (49-21).

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Q0xUFd

100th Edition of ‘The Game’: Osceola Kowboys Celebrate Historic Win

Over St. Cloud Bulldogs

Osceola High School’s Markus Paul Stadium was filled fans from the two oldest high schools in Osceola County Friday night as they met for the 100th time. It was a night of pride, memories, hope, and loyalty as the Kowboys, who were winless coming into the game, fought to keep their position as county powerhouse, taking home the 49-3 win over St. Cloud, for the 13th straight on-field win in the series.

Officially, it was Osceola 19th consecutive win over the Bulldogs, after St. Cloud had to forfeit its 2010 win (41-35) due to player eligibility issues. Overall, the Kowboys now lead the all-time series 68-28-4.

Osceola went to 1-5 with the win, St. Cloud dropped to 2-3.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ZDU437

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

‘Osceola On

the Rise,’ Financial Report for

Fiscal Year 2022 Now Available from Osceola Clerk of Court, Comptroller Kelvin Soto

Kelvin Soto, Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, has released the second edition of Osceola on the Rise, the county’s Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2022. Osceola on the Rise serves as a summary of the financial information presented in the Osceola County Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and offers citizens a clearer understanding of Osceola County’s financial trends. New to this edition is “Helpful Chirps,” designed to provide insights into the PAFR presented by “Mocki,” the mockingbird from the office’s seal. Osceola on the Rise also includes statistics about the county’s rapidly growing and diverse community.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44OoKj0

Osceola School District Announces No Early Release Students On Four Wednesdays During Testing During 2023-2024 School Year

The Osceola County School District has announced that students in all grade levels will have a full day of school on the Wednesdays when testing will be administered this current school year. There will be no early release of students on the following Wednesdays:

• October 11, 2023

• March 20, 2024

• May 8, 2024

• May 15, 2024

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

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

Pinktoberfest 2023: A Day of Unity, Hope, Faith, and Love in St. Cloud

Mark your calendars for October 21st from 10 am to 2 pm, and prepare to immerse yourself in the heartwarming spirit of Pinktoberfest 2023 at the picturesque Lakeshore Park in St. Cloud. The inspiration annual event, hosted by Pink Heals St. Cloud, is a celebration of unity and hope, aimed at raising awareness and providing support to those valiantly battling cancer in our beloved community.

Explore an array of unique gifts and treasures created by local artisans and crafters. Satisfy your craving for sweet and savory with mouthwatering food options from local food vendors, and experience one of the highlights of Pinktoberfest, the annual Pink Firetruck Pull, where teams from businesses and organizations across the community come together to show their support.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44IpDK6

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.

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

Nine Osceola Students Named Semifinalists In The National Merit Scholarship Program

Nine Osceola County students have been named as Semifinalists in the 69th annual 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. The academically-talented students will now go on to compete with 16,000 other students for some 7,140 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $28 million that will be offered in the spring.

The students from the Osceola County School District are:

–Matthew Cardenas – NeoCity Academy

–Katelyn Hornak – NeoCity Academy –Noah Illick – Osceola High

–Aiden Dai – Celebration High

–Noah Fermin – Celebration High

–Joshua Haines – Celebration High –Noah Lingo – Celebration High

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/46aHieG

A Hauntingly Beautiful

Affair: Osceola Clerk of

& Comptroller Kelvin Soto Announces 2nd Annual Halloween Wedding ‘Scare-A-Mony’

Court

Join Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq. for a Spooktacular Evening of ‘I Dos’ at its 2nd Annual Halloween Group Wedding ‘Scare-AMony’ and Reception! This ‘enchanted’ event guarantees an unforgettable experience for 25 lucky couples.

The Halloween Group Wedding Scare-AMony and Reception will take place in the idyllic setting of the Historic Osceola County Courthouse, the oldest continually operating courthouse in Florida. Couples will pledge their love and commitment in the midst of history, with the charm of the courthouse adding to the magic of the occasion.

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

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

Parkinson’s Support in Action: Orlando Health Advanced Rehabilitation Institute offering free community exercise classes for Parkinson’s patients

Local patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease now have access to free fitness classes tailored to their medical needs, thanks to the Orlando Health Advanced Rehabilitation Institute and grant funding from the Parkinson Association of Central Florida. Patients do not need a physician referral to join the classes.

The fitness classes meet every other Monday from 3:30 pm-4:30 pm near the Orlando Health Neuroscience Institute, with Orlando Health neurologic physical therapists providing the exercise instruction. The classes include aerobic exercise, strength training, balance training, and more. Attendees should wear active clothes and bring water. They are also asked to have a care partner attend with them if they require additional physical assistance.

Please register for each class session you plan to attend by emailing parkinsonsclass@orlandohealth.com. Attendees can also call 321-841-4490 with any questions.

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

FDOT Announces Timelines to Widen I-4, Add Express Lanes Near Champions Gate in Major ‘Moving Florida Forward’ Projects in Osceola County

If you’ve ever driven on I-4 near Champions Gate in Osceola County, you understand the significance of the Florida Department of Transportation unveiling schedules for the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative, expected to reduce traffic congestion along the stretch from Champions Gate to Osceola Parkway, as well as on I-4 between U.S. 27 and Champions Gate.

Proposed to the Legislature in January 2023, Governor Ron DeSantis’ Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative will accelerate priority infrastructure projects across the state through an allocation of $4 Billion from the General Revenue Surplus starting in the 2023-2024 budget year. These projects are slated to address congestion, improve safety, ensure a resilient transportation system, enhance the supply chain and economic growth, and address future needs as the state continues to experience rapid growth.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Culture, Contributions, and Community

Each year from September 15th to October 15th, the United States proudly observes Hispanic Heritage Month. This month-long celebration is a time to honor the rich and diverse cultural tapestry woven by Hispanic and Latino communities across the country. It provides an opportunity for everyone to learn about, appreciate, and celebrate the heritage, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latin Americans to the nation’s history and society.

Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off on September 15th, marking the anniversary of the independence of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively. These historic milestones serve as a reminder of the enduring spirit of freedom and selfdetermination that is at the core of Hispanic and Latinx cultures.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3LrA51X

Osceola Prosper Initiative Continues to Advance Opportunities for Osceola County Graduates

Osceola County’s groundbreaking initiative, Osceola Prosper, continues to redefine the educational landscape in Osceola County. The program, which went into to effect last year for 2021 Osceola County graduates, has already begun to revolutionize the way students approach post-secondary education in Osceola County with 2500 students participating in the first year, 133 students obtaining associate degrees, and 108 students acquiring certifications. That means about 10% of “Osceola Prosper students” have already received some type of credential.

In December of 2022, Osceola County officials announced plans to expand the Osceola Prosper program for another year, offering the funding to 2022 Osceola County graduates.

Making Business Better, Together

Kirbie Whitaker, MS, RD, LDN Clinical Oncology Dietitian

Orlando Health: A World Without Bacon? What You Need To Know About Nitrates

Even for Americans who consciously consume less meat these days, a crispy rasher of bacon or a flame-grilled steak still rank among the splurge-worthy. But would your enthusiasm dampen if you knew each came with a significant cancer risk?

Bacon and charred meats each contain nitrates, which are under the microscope as researchers find links to increased disease risk and the European Parliament debates a total ban. A naturally occurring substance that historically allowed humans to preserve precious proteins, nitrates also are labeled a Class 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization, right up there with tobacco and asbestos.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3RpVw7k

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.

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44DSoZo

HEALTH

Christine E. Jablonski, MD Orlando Health Internal Medicine

Orlando Health: Best Exercises To Slow Osteoporosis

Exercise can help slow osteoporosis. But before you start working out, it helps to know which bone-strengthening exercises deliver the greatest benefit.

Osteoporosis — bone-density loss — affects one in three women older than 50, and one in five men will experience osteoporotic fractures in their lifetimes.

Osteoporosis slowly weakens your bones to the point where they easily break. It’s referred to as a “silent disease” because you often don’t know it’s happening until you break a bone. Osteoporosis commonly causes fractures in the hip, spine and wrist.

WHY WE LOSE BONE MASS

As a living tissue, bones continually rebuild themselves to maintain strength. How? Your body breaks down existing bone and then restores it with new bone tissue.

It also helps to understand “the bone turnover cycle.” When you’re young, you build more bone than you lose. But as you age, you start to lose more bone than you build.

For women, bone loss increases after menopause as they lose hormones, causing a precipitous decline in bone mineral density. For men, especially those with low testosterone, osteoporosis usually happens a bit later — generally around age 65 or 70.

The development of osteoporosis is accelerated during this natural aging process and causes the bones to become thinner, more brittle and subject to breaks during a fall.

Besides age, other risk factors for osteoporosis include some medical conditions and lifestyle choices,

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48ME8jo

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

Valencia College Awarded Grant to Help Students with Child Care Costs

Valencia College has been awarded a U. S. Department of Education grant totaling more than $1.3 million to subsidize child care for low-income parents attending college.

The new Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program will help low-income Valencia College students with the cost of child care through a network of quality, licensed child care providers in Orange and Osceola counties.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: A Spooktacular Disney World Celebration

As the Florida air begins to chill, well, hopefully it drops from the 90s to the 80s, there’s a special kind of magic that descends upon the Walt Disney World Resort when pumpkins light up with mischievous grins, ghosts and ghouls come out to play, and beloved Disney characters trade in their usual attire for enchanting costumes. This can only mean one thing – it’s time for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, an annual event that combines the enchantment of Disney with the thrills of Halloween on select nights through Nov.1 from 7 p.m. to midnight.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/480Q5Sf

Universal Orlando announces lineup for January 2024 Rock the Universe Concert

Universal Orlando Resort has announced its anticipated lineup of Rock the Universe, Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, taking place January 26 and 27, 2024.

The rocking weekend kicks off Friday night with performances by GRAMMY-nominated rock band, We The Kingdom, GRAMMY award-winning rapper, LECRAE and more. The festival continues Saturday night with performances by Dove award-winning band, Casting Crowns, GRAMMY-nominated singer, Phil Wickham, GRAMMY award-winning singer, Brandon Lake and more. For the full weekend lineup, visit www.RocktheUniverse.com.

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

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

SeaWorld Orlando to Launch All-New Penguin Trek Family Coaster in Spring 2024

SeaWorld Orlando, known as Orlando’s Coaster Capital, has officially announced its next exciting roller coaster, Penguin Trek!

SeaWorld says that the unforgettable family launch coaster adventure will take guests through the breathtaking vastness of Antarctica. After boarding a snowmobilelike vehicle, riders will race along with their “expedition team” at up to 43 miles per hour, navigating twists and turns and narrowly escaping the crumbling hazards of an icy cavern.

When riders reach the end of the expedition they will arrive at a real penguin habitat, filled with SeaWord Orlando’s amazing penguins!

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

Get Ready for Spooky Fun: Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins Event Returns in October

Gatorland is bringing back its popular Gators, Ghosts and Goblins Halloween event for a fifth year in a row from Oct. 14th through October 29th.

The all-ages, daytime, familyfriendly event will take place over three weekends in October, and will feature the all-new exhibit “Swamp Ghost’s Monster Museum.”

Gators, Ghosts and Goblins will feature new haunt-zones like “The Creepy Creature Carnival,” where famous monsters moonlight as midway attractions, and the “Frightful Frontier”, an Old West Town populated with cursed cowboys.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3roB5go

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

Axiom Space’s Next Chapter: Astronauts Chosen for Third Voyage to the ISS

Axiom Space has announced the full crew complement for its third mission, Axiom Mission 3, to the International Space Station, after receiving NASA and ISS-partner approval for the fourperson, multi-national team to travel to the orbiting laboratory no earlier than January 2024.

Ax-3 will be the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to launch to the ISS – redefining the pathway to low-Earth orbit (LEO) and helping chart a course toward Axiom Station, the world’s first commercial space station.

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

POSITIVELY DELICIOUS

Grilled Florida Chicken Sandwich, It’s Positively Delicious!

Fresh chicken with crisp Florida arugula on toasted bread, it’s Positively Delicious!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 Florida chicken breasts, grilled

• 1 Florida tomato, sliced thin

• 2 cups Florida arugula

• 3 garlic cloves

• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

• Sandwich bread (your favorite)

• Sea salt and fresh ground pepper

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End Your Summer Day with Grilled Florida Key Lime Shrimp Skewers, They’re Positively Delicious!

After a long day at the beach soaking up the sun, reward yourself with a delicious meal. Try these Grilled Shrimp skewers made with fresh Florida seafood…they’re Positively Delicious!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound Florida shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 Florida Key limes, juiced

• ½ Florida avocado, mashed

• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons spicy mustard

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning

• 1 lemon, juiced

• Oil for cooking

• Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

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

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Grilled Florida Mahi-Mahi with Mango

Fried Rice, It’s Positively Delicious

Creating a delectable dish like Grilled Florida MahiMahi with Mango Fried Rice is a culinary journey that brings together the vibrant flavors of the Sunshine State. Starting with the star of the dish, the succulent MahiMahi fillets are seasoned to perfection and then skillfully grilled to achieve a smoky char that complements the fish’s delicate taste. As the Mahi-Mahi grills, attention turns to the fragrant Mango Fried Rice. The rice, cooked to a fluffy perfection, becomes a canvas for a tropical symphony of flavors as juicy chunks of ripe mango, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices are introduced. With each forkful, the sweetness of the mango contrasts harmoniously with the savory rice, creating a fusion of tastes that transport you to a paradise of flavors. Together, the grilled Mahi-Mahi and the Mango Fried Rice create a Positively Delicious dish that encapsulates the essence of Florida’s bountiful harvest, offering a tantalizing experience that’s both satisfying and positively unforgettable.

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Florida Honey-Glazed Fried Chicken Wings, It’s Positively Delicious!

Honey-glazed fried chicken wings with the perfect mix of crunch and tang…it’s Positively Delicious!

INGREDIENTS

• 12 Florida chicken wings

• ⅓ cup Florida honey

• ¼ cup Florida orange juice

• 10 sprigs fresh thyme, finely chopped

• 3 eggs, beaten

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups bread crumbs

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose seasoning

• Vegetable oil for frying

• Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3CDS3sU

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be confident.

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