POSITIVELY OSCEOLA WEEKLY
Making a Positive Difference in and around Osceola County!
Kissimmee teen organ donor to be honored in annual Rose Parade on New Year’s Day Page 12
Inside this issue Trauma response dog “K-9 Merlin” pays Osceola County Fire Rescue a visit Page 11
How To Make New Year’s Resolutions Stick Page 23
Acclaimed Performer José Feliciano to perform at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration This Weekend
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NEWS Osceola County Receives Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 31st Time
Osceola County has been awarded, for the 31st year in a row, a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its annual comprehensive financial report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2020 by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). “When you think about the volatility of financial markets in recent years, our staff can really take pride in this accomplishment of fiscal excellence and accountability,” said Osceola Commission Chairman Brandon Arrington. “This recognition is again proof that the County is an aggressive protector of the public’s money.” The ACFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. GFOA is a nonprofit professional association that advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources, and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve.
Osceola County announces road resurfacing project at Florida Plaza Boulevard Osceola County has announced that the following road is tentatively scheduled for resurfacing Monday, January 3rd through Friday, January 7th: Florida Plaza Boulevard: U.S. Highway 192 to Holiday Trail. Work will be performed daily from 7 am to 5 pm with schedules potentially varying based on weather conditions or equipment-related issues. There will be temporary lane closures but no “road closures.” Traffic delays can be expected in the work area. For more information visit Osceola.org. For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! 2
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NEWS Leading the charge on handling bull redfish Everyone likes catching big fish. They put up a great fight, come with serious bragging rights, look super cool in a profile pic and, if harvested, they can feed lots of friends and family. Bull redfish are just one example of a popular saltwater species that have anglers chasing “the big one” for their next fish tale. While there is no doubt that monster reds have rightfully earned their place in the big leagues, any redfish angler worth their salt will tell you that an important part of any trip catching bull reds is the release. Florida regulations require that redfish over 27 inches be released. The intent of this regulation is to protect larger fish (redfish don’t usually spawn until they get larger than 27 inches). Larger fish also produce higher quality and larger numbers of eggs and sperm. This is why doing everything you can to help larger fish survive after release is so important. It’s also important to remember that just because a fish swims away doesn’t always mean it will survive. Taking steps to ensure that the fish is in good condition upon release means it has a better chance of surviving long-term to the next spawn. Use these tips to help your next bull red, or any other fish you release, survive to fight another day: • Keep large fish in the water to reduce stress or injury to the fish. • Use tackle that is large enough to bring the species you are targeting in quickly, reducing the chance of exhaustion.
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Don’t Wait Too Late To Dispose of Your Christmas Tree Christmas has come and gone, but for many in and around Osceola County, the celebrations continue and will pass the new year. Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is encouraging Floridians to make sure their live Christmas trees are disposed of quickly after the holidays. Leaving a tree up past December greatly increases the chances of a fire incident, as nearly 30 percent of Christmas tree fires occur in January, especially with the warm weather we’re experiencing in Central Florida. “While it may be tempting to leave the Christmas tree up longer this year, it is extremely important to take down the tree quickly to prevent a firerelated tragedy. Dry Christmas trees pose a serious fire hazard and properly disposing of the tree can ensure your family and property remain safe, CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said. ”
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NEWS
FWC works to solve record setting 1000 + manatee deaths in 2021, starvation main cause More than 1,000 manatees have died in Florida waters this year, a record-setting number with only a few days left in the year and experts bracing for the possibility of more fatalities moving into 2022 as the weather turns colder. During cold winter spells, Manatees gather around warm-water sources, like power plants, where food is more scarce, increasing the chance of more starvation-related mortalities. In the summer Florida left behind the previous single-year record of 830 manatee deaths that was set in 2013. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are working together to investigate the high level of manatee mortalities and respond to manatee rescues along the Atlantic coast of Florida. Responding to live manatees in need of rescue is a top priority for wildlife agencies and partners from the Manatee Rehabilitation Partnership. FWC manatee biologists have been working hard to respond to public reports of distressed manatees and rescue manatees that need assistance. The Working Group on Marine Mammal Unusual Mortality Events has confirmed these manatee mortalities have met the criteria to be classified as an Unusual Mortality Event (UME) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has also declared it a UME. Researchers have attributed the unusually high amount of Manatee deaths to starvation due to the lack of seagrasses in the Indian River Lagoon. In recent years, poor water quality in the Lagoon has led to harmful algal blooms and widespread seagrass loss. Rescuing manatees remains a priority and since January 1, 2021, FWC and partners have rescued over 140 manatees statewide.
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NEWS Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber to host 2022 Three Kings Day celebration at Old Town Jan. 9th For many Christians around the world, including Spain, Latin America, and Osceola County, the holiday season will officially come to an end in January on the Feast of the Epiphany, or Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes). This year’s Three King’s Day celebration will take place on Sunday, January 9, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Old Town (5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746). Three King’s Day celebration will include a brandnew free photo booth experience with the 3 Kings sponsored by Kissimmee Utility Authority. Children will be able to meet the 3 Kings and get a printed photo strip keepsake to take home. After you’ve enjoyed the Three Kings Day celebration, Positively Osceola encourages everyone to stroll through Old Town and enjoy the unforgettable family experience featuring a unique collection of shops, dining options, rides, and family-friendly attractions.
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Free Huntington Webinar: New Year, New Goals: Tips to Create SMART Goals for Your Child The new year is almost upon us, and once again it’s an opportunity for students to start fresh and set new goals. Using the SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) goals framework, your child can get motivated and excited to make 2022 a great year. During the next FREE Huntington How-to webinar, you’ll learn how to help your child come up with SMART goals and use them to make the rest of the school year productive and successful. The Webinar will take place Thursday, January 6th, and will cover: What SMART goals are and how to develop them, 8 tips for parents/children on how to approach the new year with optimism and excitement, Ways to stay positive and help your child focus on the learning experience, not the obstacles, How Huntington can help your child this school year, Q&A. To register for the free webinar, visit huntingtonhelps.com, go to Resources on the top menu, then drop down to webinar and click. The webinar is free and simple to register for. For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! 6
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NEWS
St. Johns River blue crab trap closure starts Jan. 16, FWC says Recreational and commercial blue crab traps in all waters of the St. Johns River system must be removed from the water before Jan. 16, the first day of a 10-day trap closure. This closure will give groups authorized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) the opportunity to identify and retrieve lost and abandoned blue crab traps from the water. The closure includes all waters of the St. Johns River system and its associated lakes and tributaries from west of the St. Johns River’s intersection with the Intracoastal Canal, through and including Lake Hellen Blazes in Brevard County. Traps may be placed back in the water in this area starting Jan. 26, although closures may be reduced in duration if it is determined that the number of lost and abandoned traps in the region will take less time to remove. Until the trap season reopens, blue crabs may be harvested with other gear, such as dip nets and fold-up traps. Blue crab harvesters may also use standard blue crab traps during the closure if the traps are attached to a dock or other private property. Lost and abandoned blue crab traps are a problem in the blue crab fishery because they can continue to trap crabs and fish when left in the water. They can also be unsightly in the marine environment, damage sensitive habitats and pose navigational hazards to boaters on the water. The closure is one of three regional, 10-day blue crab trap closures in 2022 on the Atlantic coast of Florida. There are six regional closures total: three in odd-numbered years on the west coast and three in evennumbered years on the east coast. For more information regarding the FWC’s trap-retrieval program, blue crab trap closure dates, and regulations and cleanup events, go online to MyFWC.com/Marine and click “Traps and Debris”. For additional information, call 850-487-0554. For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!
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NEWS City of St. Cloud continues to clean water lines with unidirectional flushing this week City of St. Cloud crews will continue unidirectional flushing in targeted areas of the city this week. The map shows the area where customers are likely to experience a temporary drop in water pressure and discolored water. Water pressure and clarity will return once flushing operations in the area are completed.
Affected areas this week are: • Natchez Trace • Pine Lake Estates • Heather Hall • King Oak Villas • Niles Manor • Peghorn Park • Magnolia Glen • Pine Lake Estates
• 17th Street • Communications Road • Pine Chase Estates • Canoe Creek Villas • Pinewood Gardens • Pine Lake Villas • Progress Lane • Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital
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NEWS Toho Water Authority Admin Office to Close Friday in Observance of the New Year’s Holiday Toho Water Authority’s administrative office will be closed on Friday, December 31, in observance of the New Year’s holiday. Regular business hours will resume at 8 a.m. Monday, January 3. Customers can always make payments, report water emergencies, and use other self-service features at www.tohowater.com, or by using our 24-hour customer service line at 407-944-5000. Toho Water is the largest provider of water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services in Osceola County, and currently serves over 100,000 customers in Kissimmee, Poinciana, and unincorporated areas of Osceola County.
City of Kissimmee Admin Offices to Close on Friday Ahead of New Year’s Day The City of Kissimmee’s administrative offices will be closed in observance of New Year’s Day on Friday, December 31. Sanitation Services for Friday, December 31, will be collected as usual. The City’s administrative offices will resume regular business hours and operations on Monday, January 3 at 8:00 a.m. For more information about the City of Kissimmee, visit www.kissimmee.gov.
Kissimmee Utility Authority to Close for Observance of the New Year’s Holiday Kissimmee Utility Authority Offices will be closed on Friday, Dec. 31, in observance of New Year’s Day. Regular hours will resume on Monday, Jan. 3. Customers wishing to make a bill payment can do so through the utility’s automated telephone system at 407-933-7777, online at www.kua.com, or at any area Amscot Financial location. Founded in 1901, KUA is Florida’s sixth-largest community-owned utility powering 84,000 customers in Osceola County, Florida. For more information, visit www.kua.com. For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!
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NEWS Positively Osceola’s Mayor’s Minute with St. Cloud Mayor, Nathan Blackwell I’m Nathan Blackwell, Mayor of the City of St. Cloud. We hope you are enjoying a wonderful holiday season with your friends and family. The City of St. Cloud is thrilled that so many of you have joined us for many of the local holiday events, including the tree lighting, the parade, Light Up St. Cloud, and our holiday downtown monthly market. We aren’t quite finished yet. Make plans now to join us for Rockin’ the Cloud, our New Year’s Eve party downtown. After taking 2020 off due to COVID, we are bringing back our annual Rockin’ the Cloud New Year’s Eve party on December 31st, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. downtown. Rockin’ the Cloud will feature live bands on 3 different entertainment stages, including our event headliner, Tim Montana. And let’s not forget about the highlight of Rockin’ the Cloud – the midnight Cloud Drop to ring in the new year!! We hope you will join us here in St. Cloud… Your CenterPlace for Life!
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NEWS Trauma response dog “K-9 Merlin” pays Osceola County Fire Rescue a visit
The crew at Station 53 in St. Cloud received a visit from K-9 Merlin for an impromptu therapy session this morning as a part of his continuing training. Merlin is a 7-year-old Australian Shepherd that works for local nonprofit K9 Helping Heroes as a trauma response dog, providing therapy and reducing stress and anxiety after crisis situations. The company of a dog or other pet, talking with family or friends, or other ways of coping with stress and traumatic experiences may improve your mental health, and it is important to know that struggling with life’s challenges is nothing to be ashamed of. If you or someone you know is in need of help over the holidays or at any time, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741741. Both services are confidential, free, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week
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NEWS Kissimmee teen organ donor to be honored in annual Rose Parade on New Year’s Day Each year since 2004, the Donate Life float in the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day has featured the powerful and life-saving message of organ, eye, and tissue donation. This year, the float will have a connection to Osceola County. The Donate Life float will feature a floragraph of an organ donor who gave the gift of life to transplant recipients from across the country. Floragraphs are seeded portraits of the donors, fitting with the Rose Parade theme/requirements. That floragraph will be of Linda Couch, a Kissimmee teenager who was hit by a car as she was crossing US 192 at the Bill Beck Blvd intersection in Kissimmee, January 22, 1999. She sustained a severe head injury which resulted in brain death. Her dad (Larry Couch, now deceased) and her mom Diana, who is in Pasadena helping decorate the float, told the doctors that they wanted to donate Linda’s organs, even before they were asked. The subject of becoming organ and tissue donors had been previously discussed within the family, including Linda, so Linda’s mother and father knew what needed to be done, even amid the terrible tragedy they were going through. Our Legacy (a local organ procurement organization) nominated Linda to be included on the 2022 Donate Life float and sponsored her mother’s trip to Pasadena where she will take part in events with other donor families from around the country leading up to the parade. The donor families will watch the parade from the grandstands. “I am proud to share Linda’s story and to see her honored on the float… and excited to meet up with my mom and family who will join me in watching the parade in person. Volunteering with Our Legacy gives me an opportunity to be Linda’s mom,” Linda’s mother Diane told Positively Osceola. Anyone interested in more information about becoming an organ donor can visit www.donatelife.net or www.donatelifeflorida.org/register.
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UPCOMING EVENTS Rockin’ The Cloud The City of St. Cloud, Florida and OUC - The Reliable One will host the 5th Annual Rockin’ The Cloud event on December 31st in downtown St. Cloud from 7:00pm to 2:00am. This year’s event will offer three stages of live entertainment with performances from Maiden Voyage, Raspberry Pie, Raging Son, Harlequin and event headliner Tim Montana. Once again the countdown to midnight will include St. Cloud’s iconic Cloud Drop to ring in the New Year!
Friday, December 31st
“Oh, What Fun” Holiday Festival Step into a spectacular winter wonderland with holiday magic around every corner at Lake Nona’s annual holiday festival, Oh, What Fun! Through January 2, 2022, you can take a walk through Town Center, and enjoy a holiday beverage, some delicious fare from food trucks and pop-up food stands, or spend some time with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Visit OhWhatFunLakeNona.com for more information.
Now Through January 2nd
Don’t Curb It... S.W.A.P. It! This year, instead of kicking your old Christmas tree to the curb, SWAP it out for a new LIVE tree to plant at your home! On Saturday, January 8th, from 9 am to 1 pm the City of St. Cloud is hosting a Don’t Curb It...SWAP it event at the St. Cloud Civic Center on 17th Street. And by the way, if you don’t have an old Christmas tree to swap - no worries, you can still stop by to get a FREE tree.
Saturday, January 8th For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!
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ib o s ce o l a l
rar y.org
The Power of Your Library Card! Technology Chromebook laptops and WiFi Hotspots available for free checkout!
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Books are just the beginning! Visit us in-person or online! osceolalibrary.org | 407.742.8888
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NEW YEAR Special 1 Ticket $10
15 Tickets $100
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Drawing
DECEMBER 31ST 12:00 PM
THE OSCEOLA COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING, INC. #SC00067 HAS COMPLIED WITH THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF CHAPTER 496, F.S., SOLICITATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS ACT. "A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE." 1-800- HELP-FLA (435-7352) WWW.FLORIDACONSUMERHELP.COM
SPORTS
By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola
It’s JD’s Weekly Musing, talking UCF’s win, Baker Mayfield, Indianapolis Colts, and more! A couple of takeaways from Thursday’s Gasparilla Bowl: In the whole scope of things, UCF’s win doesn’t prove a lot, other than to say the Knights had a pretty good team that could possibly have been exceptional if they had not been hit with an incredible amount of injuries. It also strongly points out that a team loaded with a ton of talent (Florida) is not necessarily going to be successful if things like coaching, team chemistry, and yes a little intestinal fortitude (and that criticism comes directly from some former Gator players I know) is lacking. That said, no excuses from Gator fans about transfer portals, not wanting to be there or our guys didn’t take it seriously. Bottom line, y’all cared enough to sell out a 65,000 seat stadium, y’all knew a loss would be embarrassing and y’all took a butt whipping. Congrats to the Gasparilla Bowl for understanding a way to make a third-tier bowl game meaningful, Congrats to the Knights for an impressive win, and Good Luck Gators and Coach Napier in rebuilding a once-proud program… The Ouija board box says for “Ages 8 and up”. Soooo….you have to be 21 to drink a beer but only 8 to summon the devil?…. Speaking of college football, I went back to my Aug. 16 predictions for Florida’s Top Five Programs and now have to say it was a little bit of a mixed bag in how those predictions played out. I felt USF, despite being an underdog in all but one game, would pull a couple of upsets and finish 3-9. They came in 2-9 and had they made one more play against either Tulsa (32-31 loss) or UCF (17-13 loss), I would have nailed that one. I did hit UCF on the head, saying with some good teams in the AAC and some hard non-conference games, they would finish regular season 8-4 and 8-4 they were. Said the Noles, who were predicted by others to go 6-6 would get one more and be 7-5, they finished 5-7 – with the Noles losing three games by three points, we’ll label that a reasonable miss; as will my Canes, who I predicted to go 9-3 and they finished 7-5. Had they turned two of three 3-point losses, that prediction would have been dead on. Now for the ugly prediction, where I said the Gators – despite losing Trask and Pitts – where still loaded with talent and would go 10-2. When the Lizards narrowly lost to Alabama but hammered Tennessee a week later to go 3-1, I felt great about the prediction. Did not see five losses coming in the next seven – including unexplainable losses to South Carolina, Missouri, and LSU… Funny, how being “On You Phone All Day” has gone from being sociable to unsociable in less than a decade… It’s going to be extremely interesting to see what Cleveland does or doesn’t do regarding Baker Mayfield. The Browns could control him under his rookie contract for one more season and I am sure there will be some pressure from his agent to get a “long-term” deal done this off-season. Working in Baker’s favor, he is a tremendously popular player in Cleveland but on the other side is the fact that he certainly has done nothing on the field to justify a franchise quarterback-type contract. In my eyes, the Mayfield situation is very similar to what Tampa Bay found itself in back in 2018. A fourth year quarterback – Jameis Winston – who was talented but made too many mistakes had one more year on his rookie deal. Having no idea that Tom Brady would fall in their lap two years later, Tampa Bay still elected to do nothing and use that fifth year to evaluate Winston, eventually deciding to part ways with him. It’s a path Cleveland may be wise to consider. About the only real difference I see is whether Cleveland — despite having a talented roster – could attract a decent free agent QB…
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HEALTH
Melissa Perry RD Orlando Health Registered Dietician
Here are 5 Surprising Heart-Healthy Foods When it comes to cardiovascular disease, some factors – such as age and family history – are out of your control. But you can adopt healthy lifestyle habits that make a difference in keeping your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels in check. Topping the list? Eating foods that promote heart health Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, claiming the lives of 655,000 Americans every year. That’s roughly one in every four deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). So it’s important to choose foods that will lower your risk. What Makes a Food “Heart-Healthy?” When shopping, look at the ingredient list and nutrition facts. Pick foods that are: • Low in saturated or trans fats • High in omega-3 fatty acids • Low in sodium • High in fiber Many fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans are good sources of fiber. Fatty fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. So are some plant-based options like nuts and seeds; plant oils; and fortified foods, including certain brands of eggs, juices, milk and yogurt. What Benefits Do Heart-Healthy Foods Provide? Certain vitamins, minerals, fats, and macronutrients can affect your heart health. For example: • Unsaturated fats can help reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. • Low-sodium options can help control blood pressure. • Fiber can help with weight management and lower LDL cholesterol. Heart-Healthy Foods To Add to Your Diet The Mediterranean Diet — a popular recommendation for heart health — focuses on replacing saturated and trans fats with healthier fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. For instance, instead of cooking with butter, use non-tropical vegetable oils like olive oil, grapeseed oil or avocado oil. Fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, also provide omega-3 fatty acids, which have been associated with decreased risk of heart disease. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends eating a variety of fish at least twice a week. For plant-based, heart-healthy protein sources, choose beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. For healthy carbs, choose a variety of fruits and vegetables.
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HEALTH
Jeffrey Laman, MD Family Medicine Orlando Health
How To Make New Year’s Resolutions Stick New year, same resolutions: Lose weight, exercise more, quit smoking. If you vow to make changes every year but never succeed, you need to have a better plan. Setting goals is a great first step, but to transform those goals into permanent lifestyle changes, you need a plan of action. This plan sets realistic expectations and provides the support you’ll need to reach them. Reframe Your Goal How you define your goal is important. Nobody “gives up” something they’re attached to, whether you’re ditching cigarettes or daily dessert. And while resolutions such as “start exercising” may sound positive, they lack specifics and a greater motivation. To get the best head start, reframe your goal so that it positively identifies not only what you are seeking to achieve, but how and why. For example: • “Stop smoking” becomes “replace smoking with healthy actions that ensure I’ll be a fun grandparent.” • “Lose weight” becomes “improve my BMI by eating vegetables at every meal and moving my body for 30 minutes every day.” • “Start exercising” becomes “exercise 30 minutes a day, five days a week to lower my risk of heart disease and set a good example for my kids.” Realistic Expectations and Attainable Goals It’s important to set end-goal resolutions, but to avoid getting discouraged, you should set smaller, attainable mini-goals along the way. Understanding the “why” behind the changes you want to make can reinforce your decision, especially if you become frustrated. Using the most common resolution — to lose weight — as an example: Rather than focusing on the end-goal of “lose 50 pounds,” create several smaller goals that are easier to achieve but still lead you in that direction, including: • Change your afternoon snack from potato chips to fresh vegetables. • Use a salad-sized plate for dinner to limit portion size. • Shop from your grocery store’s peripheral shelves and don’t buy prepackaged or frozen meals. • Change your weekend grill night from burgers to chicken or fish. Turn Bad Habits into Good Routines Life is busy, and it’s normal to slip into mindless habits. Turning a bad habit into a better one is challenging because you not only have to change your mindset, but the automatic behaviors that are attached to it.
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REAL ESTATE Goodwin Realty: What Everyone Wants To Know: Will Home Prices Decline in 2022 If you’re thinking of buying a home in today’s housing market, you may be wondering how strong your investment will be. You might be asking yourself: if I buy a home now, will it lose value? Or will it continue to appreciate going forward? The good news is, according to the experts, home prices are not projected to decline. Here’s why. With buyers still outweighing sellers, home prices are forecast to continue climbing in 2022, just at a slower or more moderate pace. Why the continued increase? It’s the simple law of supply and demand. When there are fewer items on the market than there are buyers, the competition for that item makes prices naturally rise. And while the number of homes for sale today is expected to improve with more sellers getting ready to list their houses this winter, we’re certainly not out of the inventory woods yet. Thus, the projections show continued appreciation, but at a more moderate rate than what we’ve seen over the past year. Here’s what some of the industry’s experts say about how that will play out in the housing market next year: Brad Hunter of Hunter Housing Economics explains: “. . . the recent unsustainable rate of home price appreciation will slow sharply. . . . home prices will not decline. . . but they will simply rise at a more sustainable pace.” Danielle Hale from realtor.com agrees: “Price growth is expected to move back toward a normal range, but this is on top of recent high prices, . . . So prices will [still] hit new highs. . . . The pace of price growth is going to slow notably . . . ” What Does This Mean for the Housing Market? While home price appreciation is expected to continue, it isn’t projected to be the record-breaking 18 to almost 20% increase the market saw over the past 12 months. Overall, it’s important to note that price increases won’t be as monumental as they were in 2021 – but they certainly won’t decline anytime soon. What Does That Mean for You? With motivated buyers in the market and so few homes available to purchase, the imbalance of supply and demand will continue to put upward pressure on home prices in 2022. And when home price appreciation is in the forecast, that’s a clear indication your investment in homeownership is a sound one. Bottom Line It’s important to know that home prices are not projected to decline in the new year. Instead, they’re forecast to rise, just at a more moderate pace. Let’s connect to make sure you’re up to date on what’s happening with home price appreciation in our market, so you can make an informed decision about your next move. Just call us at (407) 846-2787. For over 48 years we have been the Name You Trust… and the Company You Keep in Osceola County real estate. Contact Us Now! For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! 24
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COMMUNITY Osceola REDI helps feed 45,000 Osceola County residents amid COVID-19 pandemic
Osceola County has one of the most prepared and experienced emergency response teams in the nation, having dealt with countless tropical level weather events over the last decade. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, has called for numerous long-term solutions, many of which are still in place as the pandemic continues to negatively affect the Osceola County community. In the summer of 2020 Osceola County partnered with Osceola REDI (Recovery from Emergency Disaster Initiative) in order to raise funds to support food pantries in Osceola County that became overwhelmed due to the effects of COVID-19. Over the course of 18 months, Osceola REDI raised and distributed $63,200 to 20 local food pantries and partners serving 45,000 residents. From June 2020, Osceola REDI raised and distributed $63,200 to 20 local food pantries and partners. Through social media marketing and convening with businesses and individuals around this cause, Osceola REDI and local food pantries were able to serve 45,000 people to families in Osceola County. Warren Hougland, Senior VP for Community Action Services at Osceola Council on Aging stated, “[We’re] so thankful for the generous donation that has helped us stock the St. Cloud food pantry with nonperishable food items. This food will help feed the hungry and at-risk populations in St. Cloud. We are blessed to have received your help and support.” In March 2020, Osceola County recorded a 60% increase in food pantry distribution, with 55% of residents visiting food pantries are out of work due to COVID-19. On average, prior to COVID-19, it takes $4,000 to $5,000 to run just one food pantry in Osceola County for an entire month. After communicating with food pantries and area agencies, Osceola REDI aimed to raise funds to supply and support food pantries within Osceola County. “The Feeding Osceola effort was a testament to the ‘can do’ spirit Osceola County is known for. Even in the darkest of times, our community banded together to support one another and show up to provide the most basic of needs… making sure our fellow residents had food on the table. Though this campaign may be over, Osceola REDI is prepared to answer the next call for service.” Sue Ring, secretary of Osceola REDI.
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COMMUNITY Osceola Council On Aging, Mercedes-Benz of South Orlando to Raffle 2021 Mercedez Dec. 31, Still time to enter! The Osceola Council on Aging and MercedesBenz of South Orlando have partnered to raffle a 2021 Mercedes GLA-Class Luxury SUV to benefit the Council’s social service programs which enable self-sufficiency for seniors, disabled adults, and disadvantaged families, as well as funding for the OCOA’s expansive Meals on Wheels initiatives. The Meals on Wheels program has played a vital role in our community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. It has allowed the OCOA to deliver over 440,000 meals to more than 2,500 Osceola County seniors just in 2020 alone. In addition to these efforts, the OCOA’s food pantry program also distributed over 1.8 million pounds of food last year to thousands of families in need. “The Osceola Council on Aging receives more requests for nutrition services than any other of our social service programs offered,” said Wendy Ford, Osceola Council on Aging President/CEO. “With the pandemic hitting Central Florida especially hard, our Meals on Wheels and food pantry funding capabilities have been overwhelmingly affected.” According to Ford, the Council has been required to be creative in its fundraising efforts while finding new and innovative ways to attain donations to support the general program demand for Osceola seniors and families. One of those creative strategies is the OCOA’s second annual car raffle for a brand-new luxury vehicle.
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The Osceola County Fair to Return to Osceola Heritage Park February 11-20, 2022 The Osceola County Fair, one of the leading county fairs in Florida, and the largest annual event in Osceola County will open its gates to the community on February 11-20, 2022. As always the fair will feature fun for everyone, with amazing rides, remarkable exhibits, the best in livestock shows, agriculture, LIVE entertainment, and of course positively delicious fair food! Save the date for the 2022 Osceola County Fair! For more information, including sponsorship and vendor opportunities visit OsceolaCountyFair.com. For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! 26
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COMMUNITY St. Cloud to Rock in the New Year with the Return of its Rockin’ the Cloud Event on December 31st Get ready to rock in the new year with St. Cloud’s Rockin’ the cloud! The City of St. Cloud, along with OUC The Reliable One, will host the 5th Annual Rockin’ the Cloud event on December 31st in downtown St. Cloud from 7 pm. to 2 am. Rockin’ The Cloud is an annual celebration that rings in the New Year like nowhere else… it’s in the cloud! This year’s event will offer three stages of live entertainment with performances from Maiden Voyage, Raspberry Pie, Raging Son, Harlequin, and event headliner Tim Montana. Once again the countdown to midnight will include St. Cloud’s iconic Cloud Drop to ring in the New Year. Tell your family – tell your friends, and get ready to rock in the new year with Rockin’ the Cloud in Downtown St. Cloud!
Donate to Junior Achievement of Central Florida today and inspire tomorrows! Looking for an impacting organization to support before the end of the year? Consider Junior Achievement. By supporting Junior Achievement of Central Florida, you will be making a direct and lasting impact in the lives of young people. JA alumni report higher levels of educational attainment, greater career satisfaction, more confidence in managing money, and higher levels of business ownership. THIS is how a gift to Junior Achievement of Central Florida makes a difference. All qualifying gifts will be Matched 2:1, thanks to the generous support of Dr. Phillips Charities and their support of 3DE by Junior Achievement. Donate to Junior Achievement of Central Florida today and inspire tomorrows!
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ENTERTAINMENT SeaWorld to Host a Party Just for Kids January 22-23, Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend
Everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends at SeaWorld Orlando are hosting a party just for kids Jan. 22 – 23. Join Elmo, Cookie Monster, Rosita, and all your favorite furry friends for a fun-filled weekend with hands-on activities, dance parties, character photo opportunities, and more. They’ll also be celebrating Everyday Heroes during the event, so bring your kindness and caring along (no cape required!). Storytime with Big Bird Gather around Big Bird’s Nest for Storytime with Big Bird who will be sharing some of his favorite stories at select times throughout the day. Sesame Street Party Parade
Move to the beat during the coolest party on wheels and celebrate with your favorite friends at the awardwinning Sesame Street Party Parade. Everyday Hero Badges You don’t have to wear a cape to be an Everyday Hero. You’ll have a chance to earn special badges for things like Bravery, Helping, Manners, and more all weekend, so get ready to join the Everyday Heroes Club! Oscar’s Trash Art Activity Oscar would be proud! In this activity, kids get to turn everyday materials that may seem like trash into beautiful works of art, which is sure to make any grouch happy! This family-friendly celebration is located in Sesame Street Land and is included with park admission.
KUA’s Movie in the Park Series on Friday, January 7th to Feature Spirit Untamed Kissimmee Utility Authority will kick off the new year in a big way as it continues its Movie in the Park series on Friday, January 7th, at beautiful Kissimmee Lakefront Park. The event will feature free admission, free popcorn, contests, prize giveaways, and the showing of Dreamworks’ Spirit Untamed on its 50-foot screen! Activities begin at 5:30 pm and the movie will start at 7 p.m. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and a picnicstyle dinner – it’s the KUA Movie in the Park Series and Spirit Untamed! The movie series is a partnership between KUA and the City of Kissimmee. For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! 28
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ENTERTAINMENT Orlando’s ICON Park is set to open the world’s tallest drop tower, slingshot When ICON Park’s Slingshot and Drop Tower open on Tuesday they will be adding over 700 feet of soaring thrills to the Orlando Entertainment District’s skyline. ICON Park is already the home to the world’s tallest swing ride and one of the tallest observation wheels in the world, but with the addition of these new “world’s tallest” thrill rides, adrenaline junkies will be standing in line to experience these new giants! ICON Park Slingshot The all-new ICON Park Slingshot will turn up the heat by lowering riders into the belly of a churning volcano. As the mountain of magma erupts, guests will launch riders 450 feet in the air at 100 screaming miles per hour! After reeling to the sensation of momentary weightlessness, thrill-seekers will experience an exhilarating rush as they plummet back to Earth. No doubt about it, this tantalizingly terrifying new attraction is not for the faint of heart. If you want to work up to riding the world’s tallest slingshot, we recommend a few practice flights on the Orlando Slingshot at the Orlando Entertainment District’s Magical Midway! ICON Park Drop Tower Standing a shimmering 430 ft. tall, the ICON Park Drop Tower will carry riders 40 stories up into the Orlando sky. After a brief pause to take in the stunning vista of a bustling I-Drive, riders will take a white-knuckle free fall at 75 mph. Boasting one of the fastest, smoothest ride systems to date, the ICON Park Drop Tower promises to bring high-speed exhilaration that is truly the “top” of the line. So, stow those hats and glasses and hang on to your courage as you take the plunge! The cost of a ticket for the Orlando SlingShot at ICON Park is $30; $12 for Orlando FreeFall. There are combo tickets for both or with StarFlyer that range from $20 to $50. For tickets and information go to iconparkorlando.com
Acclaimed Performer José Feliciano to perform at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration This Weekend
SeaWorld Orlando continues to bring homerun after homerun to its Christmas Celebration with singer, writer, performer icon José Feliciano slated to perform this weekend January 1st & 2nd! Hosted at Nautilus Theatre, this concert is included with in-park admission and will take place as follows: January 1st: 3 and 6 PM January 2nd: 3 PM
Be a part of the leading holiday celebration in and around Central Florida at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration as it continues to bring the spirit of the season to life through January 2nd. For tickets and information visit SeaWorldOrlando.com For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!
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