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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28 2023

New Year’s Spectacular: Rockin’ The Cloud 2024 in St. Cloud Honoring the Dream: Kissimmee’s Martin Luther King Jr Unity Celebration, Saturday January 13 Osceola County Weather: Thursday Morning’s Rain Will Usher In Drier, Cooler Air That Will Take Us Into the New Year Start the New Year with Savings: Florida’s Back-toSchool Tax-Free Days Begin January 1st Experience the Excitement of Universal Mardi Gras 2024: A World of Flavors and Fun! 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 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.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an iconic civil rights leader, championed the values of equality, love, and justice, inspiring countless individuals worldwide. His peaceful approach to combating racial segregation changed the course of history and led to the creation of Martin Luther King Day, a federal holiday observed on the third Monday in January, close to his birthday on January 15th.

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Osceola County Weather: Thursday Morning’s Rain Will Usher In Drier, Cooler Air That Will Take Us Into the New Year Happy Thursday Osceola! Overnight rain came as predicted and will continue through the morning before trailing off before lunch. Today will be cooler with highs in the 60s. The cold front will keep temps cool, but sunny and dry for the remainder of 2023. Friday and Saturday will be cooler with highs in the low 60s. New Year’s Eve Day will be sunny and dry, and temps will be just shy of 60 degrees as the ‘cloud’ drop takes place in St. Cloud at midnight. New Years Day will be dry and sunny with a high of 66.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. South wind around 5 mph becoming west northwest after midnight.

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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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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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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

Don’t Miss Out: One Day Left to Enter the Osceola Council on Aging’s Exciting Jeep Raffle

For the fourth year in a row, the Osceola Council on Aging is offering an opportunity for some lucky individual to win a brand-new 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. If you want a chance to win, you’ll have to act quickly. The raffle takes place this Friday, December 29, at 12 pm.

The proceeds from this year’s sweepstakes will once again support the Council On Aging’s two food pantries (located in Kissimmee and St. Cloud), along with their Meals on Wheels program which delivers more than one thousand meals per day to homebound Osceola seniors.

The winner will drive home in a 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport offering 33-inch off-road tires, rear locking differential, Rubicon shocks and legendary Trail Rated® capability. The 4-door, five passenger vehicle is suitable for everyday driving, or off-road capability with its 4-wheel drive suspension, a revised front grille, a standard 12.3-inch infotainment display and 7.0-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The official drawing will take place on Friday, December 29, at 12 pm, during the council’s annual New Year’s Eve festivities at the Barney Veal Center at the Osceola Council On Aging. This year’s presenting sponsor for the Jeep raffle is Melissa Williams of Goosehead Insurance.

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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!

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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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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

Experience Kissimmee Fuels Silver Spurs Quadrille Team’s Journey to Rose Parade in January with $50,000 Sponsorship

The Silver Spurs Riding Club’s Quadrille has been invited to ride in the 135th Rose Parade taking place on January 1, 2024, in Pasadena, California! The Pasadena Tournament of Roses selected the Silver Spurs Riding Club Quadrille as one of 18 Equestrian teams throughout the country to ride in the epic annual parade. Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, has announced that it will provide a $50,000 sponsorship to help offset the Quadrille team’s travel expenses.

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.

“Supporting the Silver Spurs Quadrille team’s journey to the Rose Parade encapsulates our commitment to preserving and celebrating rich traditions while showcasing the essence of horsemanship and community spirit. It’s an honor to align Experience Kissimmee with such a prestigious event that mirrors our dedication to promoting heritage and excellence on a national stage.” – DT Minich, Experience Kissimmee CEO.

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NEWS Unity and Identity: The Essence of Kwanzaa and African-American Culture Kwanzaa, a unique and significant non-religious cultural celebration, begins today, December 26, 2023. This annual holiday, primarily observed in the United States, spans from December 26 to January 1. It is a time dedicated to affirming African family and social values.

Kwanzaa’s origins trace back to the African-American community and it serves as a means to honor African heritage within this culture. Each year, from December 26th through to the New Year, Kwanzaa unites people under the shared banner of African heritage and culture.

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NEWS McDonald’s Launches ‘Squishmallows’ Happy Meal in the U.S.

The wait is over and it’s time to get your squish on as the Squishmallows Happy Meal makes its debut at McDonald’s restaurants nationwide. The partnership launched in select global markets earlier this year and now, for a limited time while supplies last, U.S. fans can join in on the fun when the meal hits participating restaurants nationwide on December 26.

For decades, fans have collected Happy Meal toys, but have never had the opportunity to collect up to twelve Squishmallow characters with the purchase of a Happy Meal, until now! Iconic Squishmallow characters – like Cam and Fifi – will be a part of the lineup, as well as everyone’s favorite McDonaldland character and purple bestie – Grimace! And that’s not all – there’s a surprise mystery character that select fans may uncover when they open their Happy Meal toy.

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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 Powerball Jackpot Grows to $760 Million as the New Year Approaches With 4 days to go until the New Year, the Powerball jackpot has risen to an estimated $760 million.

The jackpot has an estimated cash value of $382.5 million. The next drawing is set for Saturday night December 30 at 10:59 p.m. ET.

This is the fourth Powerball jackpot to climb above half a billion dollars this calendar year. The Powerball jackpot was previously won on Oct. 11, 2023, by a ticket in California that won a grand prize worth $1.765 billion.

Since then, there have been 29 consecutive drawings without a jackpot winner.

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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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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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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

County Sports Wrap-Up: Big Sports Week Ahead Osceola Wrestling, Harmony Hoops Christmas is rapidly approaching but that doesn’t mean local high school athletes will be slacking off anytime soon. Osceola will host one of the top wrestling invitations in the country with the 13th edition of the Knockout Christmas Classic on Dec. 20-22 at Silver Spurs Arena, while Harmony boys’ basketball team will face two huge challenges at home.

Here is a look at this week’s high school sports scene: WRESTLING Osceola will host one of the most prestigious high school wrestling events in the country this week as the 11th Annual Knockout Christmas Classic at Silver Spurs Arena, Dec. 20-22. The event will feature more than 60 teams from 10 different states. The field includes eight defending team state champions – including all three Florida winners in South Dade (AAA), Lake Gibson (AA) and Jensen Beach (A).

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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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The Icon of Icon of the Seas: Miami’s Lionel Messi Named Official Icon for Royal Caribbean’s New Cruise Ship

An iconic kickoff is set to mark the start of a new era of vacations when Royal Caribbean International’s revolutionary Icon of the Seas debuts January 2024. The world’s largest cruise line has revealed sports icon Lionel Messi is the official Icon of Icon of the Seas. As the Icon of the first-of-its-kind combination of every vacation, the most decorated fútbol player in history will welcome the new ship at an exclusive naming celebration in Miami.

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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 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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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

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 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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Orlando Health earns unprecedented highest ranking on three awards for innovative digital transformation of its healthcare system Orlando Health has earned the highest ranking from three internationally recognized healthcare technology associations for innovative digital transformation of its healthcare system.

“While the awards are exemplary, it is what they represent that is truly gratifying,” said Novlet Mattis, SVP and chief digital and information officer. “Each award is the culmination and sum total of hundreds of smaller successes and wins within IT/CE, which yield significant advancements for Orlando Health as a healthcare leader, where our clinicians and administrators utilize the digital technologies at the highest levels to care for our patients and enable the organization’s successes.”

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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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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

Denon Stacy, MS, RD Nutrition Orlando Health

Orlando Health: How To Make New Year’s Resolutions You Won’t Abandon Ah, resolutions. The road through late winter and early spring is littered with abandoned best intentions. But making diet and nutrition changes that will stick is possible. The trick is being ready, realistic and willing to call for backup when that road gets a little rocky.

For most of us, the biggest impediment to making lifestyle changes is the perception — or reality — of not enough time, money or skill to achieve our goals. Sometimes those are just excuses. The real issue is believing you can’t do it. But mindsets can be altered.

Be Prepared Mental readiness is the first — and sometimes biggest — hurdle in making lasting change. Dietitians employ a model called “stages of change:” precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action and maintenance.

• If you’re precontemplation, you don’t know what you need to work on, or you need more information. Your homework at this stage is to ask yourself, why is this change important?

• In contemplation, you know there’s an issue, but you’re not sure how to fix it. For dietitians, the work here is to give patients a place to start and show them how change could happen.

• In the preparation stage, a friend, family member, co-worker or dietitian can help you plan how you will change your behavior.

• Action is when you are actively living the change. At this point, accountability is key, with someone to check in with you and confirm you are on track. (Perhaps that same friend, family member or dietitian.)

• In maintenance, you’ve been on the right road for a while but want support in sustaining new behaviors and avoiding what didn’t work for you. Maintaining is sometimes harder than anticipated, as old patterns can be hard to shake.

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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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Grilled Florida Mahi-Mahi with Mango Fried Rice, It’s Positively Delicious

Creating Grilled Florida Mahi-Mahi with Mango Fried Rice is a culinary journey that brings together the vibrant flavors of the Sunshine State. The succulent Mahi-Mahi fillets are seasoned to perfection and then grilled to achieve a smoky char. 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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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.