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

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17 2023

New Year’s Spectacular: Rockin’ The Cloud 2024 in St. Cloud Osceola County Weather: Sunday will be Windy, but Drier with Cooler Temps Arriving as the Storm Exits the State

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Welcomes New Baby Elephant Corra

Osceola Magic Triumphs Over Mexico City Capitanes with a 130-108 Victory Saturday Night Experience Kissimmee Fuels Silver Spurs Quadrille Team’s Journey to Rose Parade in January with $50,000 Sponsorship 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 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. Community Thanksgiving on Saturday, Nov. 18th, Downtown Monthly Market on Wednesday, Nov. 15th, Visit resilientstcloud.com for St. Cloud’s Vulnerability Assessment Survey.

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

New Year’s Spectacular: Rockin’ The Cloud 2024 in St. Cloud

As the year draws to a close, the City of St. Cloud is gearing up for its spectacular annual event, Rockin’ The Cloud, set to take place on December 31, 2023. This muchanticipated event, now in its 7th edition, promises to be a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration in the heart of downtown St. Cloud from 7pm to 1am.

The highlight of this year’s Rockin’ The Cloud is the performance by the renowned artist Uncle Kracker, known for his versatile music style blending country, rock, and hip-hop. The event, hosted by the City of St. Cloud in collaboration with the Toho Water Authority, OUC The Reliable One, Experience Kissimmee, Theatre in the Cloud, and Osceola Engineering, has been a staple of the community’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, drawing large crowds from across the region.

Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, food, shopping, and all kinds of New Year’s festivities. The event is not just a concert but a block party, making it an ideal destination for families and individuals looking to ring in the New Year with a bang. The inclusion of Uncle Kracker as the event headliner on the main stage adds a layer of excitement for fans of his music, promising an evening of hit songs and lively entertainment. Also performing during the evening will be violinist Claudia Sar, DJ Bri, and Live Effect on the 2nd stage.

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NEWS Osceola County Weather: Sunday will be Windy, but Drier with Cooler Temps Arriving as the Storm Exits the State Happy Sunday Osceola. After a windy and record-setting amount of rain in and around Osceola County through the night, we’ll see skies begin to clear up a bit with a south wind 25 to 30 mph becoming westerly in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph with a chance of scattered showers at 20% for the day. As the storm continues to move off of the state we’ll see temps fall to around 64 by 5pm. The sunshine will return on Monday with cooler temps and a high of 66.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 54. Windy, with a west wind 20 to 25 mph decreasing to 15 to 20 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Welcomes New Baby Elephant Corra

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has announced a special holiday season gift, the joyous arrival of baby elephant Corra. The birth represents the first baby elephant born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom since 2016, bringing excitement and attention to the park’s wildlife conservation efforts.

The newborn is an African elephant calf, a species known for its majestic presence and social nature. The mother, Nadirah, became pregnant in early 2022 through natural breeding and has been under the dedicated care of Disney’s animal care team throughout her 22-month pregnancy. This extensive period of care highlights the commitment of Disney’s team to the health and well-being of their animals.

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NEWS Osceola Magic Triumphs Over Mexico City Capitanes with a 130-108 Victory Saturday Night The Osceola Magic defeated the Mexico City Capitanes at Osceola Heritage Park 130-108 on a windy and wet Saturday Night in and around Osceola County.

Osceola’s Trevelin Queen contributed 19 points, 12 assists, and eight rebounds, while Mac McClung had a team-high 26 points and seven assists. Ethan Thompson led the Capitanes with a game-high 38 points. Iverson Molinar added 22 points, eight rebounds, and six assists off the bench.

“We took what we learned from yesterday and applied it today,” Queen said. “We showed that we could overcome adversity. I was able to help everyone get involved, thankfully, my team believes in me.”

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Experience Kissimmee Fuels Silver Spurs Quadrille Team’s Journey to Rose Parade in January with $50,000 Sponsorship Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, has announced that it will provide a $50,000 sponsorship to help fund the Silver Spurs Rodeo Quadrille team’s travel expenses to the 135th Rose Parade after the team was invited to ride in the epic event that will take place on January 1, 2024, in Pasadena, California.

As part of the sponsorship, the team will display the Experience Kissimmee flag carried by one of its riders, while the entire squad will sport the Experience Kissimmee logo on their shirtsleeves throughout the nationally televised parade.

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NEWS Tim Weisheyer Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award by Osceola County Association of Realtors The Osceola County Association of Realtors annually recognizes members who go above and beyond in the real estate profession and support their Association. During the Association’s Awards and Installation Ceremony that was held on December 2 at Osceola Heritage Park, Tim Weisheyer, was awarded with one of the organization’s top honors, the Lifetime Achievement Award.

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NEWS ‘Summer House On The Lake’ is Now Open at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort Summer House on the Lake has officially opened its doors at Disney Springs West Side at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It’s summer all year round at the newest restaurant by Lettuce Entertain You, where coastalchic vibes, a California-inspired menu, and the brand’s first-ever “Cookie Bar” come together to bring the beauty of summer indoors at The Most Magical Place On Earth. This is the fourth Summer House location, joining restaurants in Chicago, IL, North Bethesda, MD and Las Vegas, NV, as well as various airport locations around the country including in Orlando and Chicago.

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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 Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Recognizes Deputies and Staff During December Awards and Longevity Ceremony The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office in Kissimmee held its much-anticipated Awards and Longevity Ceremony in early December. The event recognizes the dedicated men and women of the Sheriff’s Office who have displayed exceptional service, unwavering commitment, and years of dedicated service to the community.

The Awards and Longevity Ceremony is a time-honored tradition at the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, and on December 3rd, under the leadership of Sheriff Marcos Lopez the ceremony was particularly special. It was an opportunity to not only acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of the department’s personnel but also to celebrate the milestones achieved in terms of longevity and dedication.

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Experience “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical” at Osceola Arts

Osceola Arts is infusing magic into the traditional Christmas pageant with “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical,” on select dates through December 17. This jolly and heart-warming musical is set to capture the hearts of audiences with its mix of mischief, humor, and holiday spirit.

In this festive production, the town’s most mischievous kids, the Herdmans, decide they want starring roles in the annual Christmas pageant. Known for their wild behavior, the Herdmans come with their own set of script changes, turning the traditional pageant upside down. But as the town comes together, something magical happens. Witness as the spirit of Christmas truly comes to life in their small town, reminding everyone of the season’s true meaning.

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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 Osceola County Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto hosting Magical Winter Wonderland Wedding Ceremonies at the County Courthouse If you and your very special someone have been looking to say ‘I do’ during the most wonderful time of the year, you’re in luck, as Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq. and his marriage team have transformed the ceremony room into a Winter Wonderland for the holiday season, where couples can get “Winter WonderWed” at the Osceola County Courthouse.

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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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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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NEWS Osceola Council on Aging Hosts ‘Jeep Wrangler’ Raffle to Support Food Pantries and Meals on Wheels Services For the fourth year in a row, the Osceola Council on Aging is offering an opportunity for some lucky individual to win a brandnew vehicle, while supporting the council’s efforts of supporting seniors and those in need in Osceola County.

This year, the council’s car raffle will feature a 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport from Gator Automotive Group in Melbourne.

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NEWS Osceola County Awarded Grant Worth Over $780,000 to Restart Glass Recycling Program Osceola County has been awarded a $783,756 grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support the County’s local waste management infrastructure and recycling programs through its “Responsible Recycling Osceola Project.”

A major component of the effort will be a mobile glass pulverizing demonstration project, showcasing how glass can be recycled and reused on a local level, reducing transportation costs and emissions. Potential uses include: “sand” for sandbags, glass mulch, and trail cover material.

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NEWS Winter Wonder: Gatorland Welcomes the Birth of Extraordinarily Rare White Leucistic Alligator Gatorland, the “Alligator Capital of the World,” has announced the birth of an extremely rare leucistic white alligator at its Orlando park. With the birth of this incredible baby alligator, Gatorland now has the largest collection of rare leucistic alligators in the world.

“Oh boy, we have some exciting news here at Gatorland,” exclaimed Mark McHugh, President and CEO of Gatorland. “For the first time since a nest of leucistic alligators was discovered in the swamps of Louisiana 36 years ago, we have the first birth of a solid white alligator ever recorded from those original alligators. This is beyond “rare,” it is absolutely extraordinary!”

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Osceola County, Commissioner Ricky Booth Introduce New Fire Rescue at Station 54 in Harmony Osceola County Commissioner Ricky Booth celebrated the addition of a new fire rescue on Monday that is now operating out of Station 54 in Harmony. Rescue 54 increases the level of service for Osceola County residents, increases response time, and distributes the call load on the east side of the County. Rescue 54 brings the total number of transport units to 16 in the County’s Fire Rescue system. fund the 9 people needed for the unit.

A 2023 SAFER GRANT is helping to

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NEWS Heather Kahoun: Leading Progress, Transformation, and Collaboration as the New Chair of the Osceola County School Board, with Terry Castillo as Vice-Chair In November, Heather Kahoun was named as the new chairperson of the Osceola County School Board, succeeding Terry Castillo, who held the role for the past two years and will now serve as Vice-chair. Kahoun, a Kissimmee resident, mother of three, and the founder of a local marketing business, brings a diverse array of experiences and an unwavering dedication to her new position.

Kahoun’s ties to the Osceola County School District are profound, spanning from her early years as a student in the district to her tenure as a teacher at Pleasant Hill Elementary School. Her journey began when her fourth-grade teacher, who later became principal, hired her. For nearly a decade, Kahoun contributed to Pleasant Hill Elementary’s academic fabric, passionately molding young minds and fostering a tight-knit community.

Transitioning from teaching, Kahoun pivoted into the field of marketing, working with local marketing agency ‘Reach’ from 2014 to 2017. However, her commitment to education led her back to the Osceola School District, where she played a pivotal role in managing social media communications within the Community Relations Department, advocating once again for students, teachers, and school-related employees at the district.

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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 City of St. CloudSeeks Applications for Advisory Boards The City of St. Cloud is accepting applications from residents who are interested in serving on advisory boards and committees. The City has a number of advisory boards and committees that provide recommendations to City Council. Among these boards are the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), Planning Commission, Recreation Advisory Committee, Tree Advisory Committee, Teen Recreation, Finance Committee, and Zoning Board of Adjustments.

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NEWS

Ringing in Hope: The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle Challenge Readies for a Season of Generosity and Compassion

The Salvation Army Red Kettle Challenge has long been a symbol of compassion and community support. This year, the challenge takes on a profound significance for the Salvation Army of Osceola County. The Osceola Christian Ministry Center in Kissimmee, a vital local community resource, recently fell victim to intentional arson.

Now, more than ever, your donations are crucial to help rebuild and restore hope to those in need.

For decades, The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Challenge has stood as a symbol of generosity during the holiday season. The sight of volunteers beside red kettles invites donors to contribute, with funds supporting essential services for individuals and families facing hardships.

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NEWS Attention Aspiring Singers: Osceola Idol Competition to Light Up the 80th Annual County Fair Stage Among the highlights of the 80th Annual Osceola County Fair, which takes place from February 9th to February 18th, 2024, is the muchanticipated Osceola Idol Competition, where local talents will take center stage to showcase their singing prowess. With a rich history of celebrating talent, the Osceola County Fair is once again set to captivate audiences and discover the next Osceola Idol. As a talent showcase, ‘Osceola Idol’ has given aspiring artists a platform to shine and share their amazing vocal skills. Judges will be looking for exceptional vocal ability, stage presence, and the ability to connect with the audience.

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Don Quijote Awards Winners Unveiled at 26th Annual Gala, Co-Hosted by the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera The 26th annual Don Quijote Awards Gala, co-hosted by the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera, took place on December 9th at Epcot’s World Showplace Pavilion. This prestigious event served as the platform for announcing the 26th Don Quijote Awards winners. Widely regarded as the premier event for the region’s Hispanic business community, the Don Quijote Awards honor businesses and individuals who embody the enduring qualities associated with the classic Don Quijote literary character: vision, courage, and a profound impact on the community.

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NEWS Osceola County Manager Don Fisher Shares NeoCity Innovation Vision in Silicon Valley Following NeoCity’s recent successes at state, national, and international levels, Osceola County Manager Don Fisher shared Osceola County’s forward-looking high-tech eco-system and vision while in America’s technological heartland, California’s Silicon Valley.

Last week, Fisher took part in a panel discussion about the future of the superconductor industry at Plug and Play Tech Center’s Annual Summit. Plug and Play is one of the newest players at NeoCity. The company connects startups, corporations, venture capital firms, universities, and government agencies and has an international presence encompassing over 60,000 startups, 550 corporations, and hundreds of venture capital firms, universities, and government agencies across diverse industries.

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St. Cloud Levee Liquor to Host ‘Horse Soldier Bourbon and War Stories’ Event at Chamber with Special-Ops Army Green Beret Vet Get ready to embark on a journey through history and whiskey-making as St. Cloud Levee Liquor proudly presents the “Horse Soldier – Whiskey and War Stories” event on Thursday, December 14th from 7pm – 8:30pm in the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce Boardroom.

Featuring special guest Rob Schaefer, co-founder, and owner of Horse Soldier Bourbon, the evening will offer a unique blend of whiskey tasting along with tales from his remarkable military career and the story behind his exceptional bourbon.

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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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SPORTS

By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola

Osceola’s Heap, Holland Win Champion Hammers At Danny Byron Invitational Some of the top high school wrestling teams in Florida and Georgia invaded Kissimmee this past weekend for the Danny Byron Invitation, held at Osceola High School. Those top teams from Florida included multiple-time state champion South Dade, Miami Southwest, Lake Gibson, Fleming Island, Hagerty, Palmetto Ridge, Fleming Island and host Osceola.

Georgia teams included perennial Peach State powers Camden and Colquitt County.

At the end of the competition, Osceola had two champions standing as Anderson Heap won the 157-lb. weight class and Gunner Holland took the 177-lb. weight class – both collecting the coveted hammer trophies signifying champions of the grueling two-day tournament.

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NEWS Osceola County to Receive up to $289 Million from U.S. Department of Defense to Build develop Next-generation Microchips The U.S. Department of Defense has granted Osceola County a five-year contract, starting with an initial funding of $3.65 million and a spending cap of $120 million to develop next-generation microchips for the U.S. military. The contract, which aims at creating a specialized production environment for advanced semiconductor packaging systems is expected to enhance the domestic capability for producing secure and sophisticated electronic components, and includes options for an additional $169 million, potentially elevating the total award to $289 million, paving the way for substantial growth and impact.

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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

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.

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HEALTH

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.

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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

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,

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NEWS Cheryl Grieb Chosen as Osceola County Chair, Peggy Choudhry Named Vice Chair of Commission Osceola County Commissioner for District 4 Cheryl Grieb was selected Chair of the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners on Monday. District 1 County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry was named new Vice Chair. Both votes were unanimous.

“I look forward to working with the Commission and County staff in the coming year. As Chair, I feel I can help strengthen the foundation for a prosperous and harmonious community,” said Grieb, the District 4 Commissioner. “This board is committed to forging a path that not only anticipates the future but actively leads it forward to better our community and its residents.”

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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 Joy of the Holidays with Soulful Festivities at Walt Disney World Resort The holidays are in full swing at Walt Disney World Resort where guests are enjoying enchanting experiences, cultural immersions and general merrymaking that pay tribute to Black heritage and culture through music, food, art and more.

Guests are “Celebrating Soulfully’’ during the holidays at Walt Disney World in a variety of ways, including meeting Santa Claus, who represents the spirit of the holiday season and reflects the diversity of the guests who visit The Most Magical Place on Earth. Jolly Old Saint Nick makes appearances across Walt Disney World Resort, greeting guests at select parks and Disney Springs. There’s also the popular Candlelight Processional, Disney Jollywood Nights, holiday-themed cuisine, music, art and more – all with a soulful twist.

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EPCOT’s Luminous the Symphony of Us: An Enchanting Orchestration of Light and Sound A brand new nighttime spectacular at EPCOT, “Luminous the Symphony of Us,” brings guests together around World Showcase Lagoon and shines a light on the shared experiences that connect people across the globe. With a dazzling display of fireworks, fountains, lights and music, the new show is the perfect finale to a memorable day at EPCOT. Much like a beautiful piece of music, “Luminous the Symphony of Us” is made up of a series of movements representing common themes of the human experience. Guests can expect to hear new arrangements of iconic Disney hits that enliven the story, including:

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IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS Universal Orlando Resort’s Holidays Celebration Kicks Off This Friday November 17 Through December 31 Universal Orlando Resort’s annual Holidays celebration officially kicks off on Friday – inviting guests to set their festive side free with a multitude of merry experiences across the awardwinning theme park destination.

Beginning November 17 and running daily through December 31, guests can celebrate the most wonderful time of year at Universal Orlando as they enjoy Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, a delicious assortment of festive-themed fare, an all-new incredibly themed Holiday Tribute Store and so much more.

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Dive into the Magic of the Holidays as SeaWorld’s Award-winning Christmas Celebration Returns!

Get ready to immerse yourselves in the holiday spirit at SeaWorld’s award-winning Christmas Celebration, available on select dates through January 2. Come see the park transformed into a winter wonderland sparkling with millions of beautiful lights as you create unforgettable memories at a wondrous Christmas celebration you’ll only find at SeaWorld Orlando!

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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 • 1/2 cup olive oil • 1 Florida tomato, sliced thin • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature • 2 cups Florida arugula • Sandwich bread (your favorite) • 3 garlic cloves • Sea salt and fresh ground pepper • 1 lemon, zested and juiced

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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

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POSITIVELY DELICIOUS 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

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be confident.

We provide trusted, quality care in your community. At Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, get access to care from an expert and compassionate clinical team for all of your healthcare needs — from emergency services to heart care, surgical services and more — all close to home. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/StCloud

choose well.